Bicycle Mechanics - handlebar clamp size question

hi there, I have a 25.4 handlebar clamp diameter on my bike, and I'm looking to get a new pair of handlebars. Most of the new 'bars I've found are 26mm, question is, will that half mm be a significant difference besides it being a little rougher to get on? For reference I have an old Raleigh clamp setup with one bolt for tightening.. thanks!

I would get a new stem (assuming quill) so Nitto Deluxe, Technomic (if you freakishly tall), Pearl (all 26).

I'm sure you can, and some bars are 25.8 (to address this), but I wouldn't.

Thanks for the info.. The only problem with getting a new stem is that I'm not really looking to put a whole lot of money into this bike anymore, I've already had to replace the wheelset, freewheel and derailer... saving up for better, lighter bike... For the meantime it is completely ridable, but I'm riding on a 40cm bar right now and it is completely too narrow. I'll keep on the lookout for a bar that is the exact fit, but I was just weighing out my options.

hi there, I have a 25.4 handlebar clamp diameter on my bike, and I'm looking to get a new pair of handlebars. Most of the new 'bars I've found are 26mm, question is, will that half mm be a significant difference besides it being a little rougher to get on? For reference I have an old Raleigh clamp setup with one bolt for tightening.. thanks!

You CANNOT do this. New face cheaper than a new stem?

I looked around a little bit... I should just be smart and get a 25.4 bar... better safe than sorry