[xcyclox]

what is the best handlebar width for cross racing? same as road racing or wider?

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[MATTO]

I would think the same as your road riding or maybe a tad bit smaller so you can turn the handelbars quicker, and get into tight places easyier. But its mostley personal prefrence I think.

[xccx]

I would think the same as your road riding or maybe a tad bit smaller so you can turn the handelbars quicker, and get into tight places easyier. But its mostley personal prefrence I think.

actually, most ppl use bars a bit wider than their road bars. the extra width is for better handling in technical sections. also, some cross bars have flared drops which again help in off road/technical sections, and make it a bit easier to grab the bar when carrying the bike. i have seen all kinds of bars at races...from shallow drops to ergos to dirt drops. an ergo bar such as the salsa bell lap bar is popular for cross, but personally i like a regular curved, shallow drop bar. you should be able to reach your drops easily on your cross bike, and not have to bend down too far to reach them.

[greybeard87]

I love my 46cm Bell Laps, nice and wide great for out of the saddle with a flare that makes the drops super comfortable.
I'm considering putting them on my road bike too.

[D0ugB]

Ditto on the bell laps I am also considering putting them on my roadie. The flares make it more comfortable in the drops

[hi565]

Ditto on the bell laps I am also considering putting them on my roadie. The flares make it more comfortable in the drops

ehh not for me, I personally think they are too flared, and the drops are a bit on the low side.

hi565

[travis200]

I run 44's same as my road bike set up.

[tozovr]

Compared to the WTB's and the Midge bars the Salsa are really not very flared at all. I run 46cm's...

http://www.endlessearthphoto.com/BELLLAP/images/IMG_4077.jpg

http://www.endlessearthphoto.com/BELLLAP/images/IMG_4066.jpg