Road Cycling - Help....Need Wider Handlebars

I have been riding a hybrid with wide handlebars for a couple of years now. I average about 50 miles a week. I recently purchased a Giant OCR2 from a friend. I love the light weight of the bike, but I feel somewhat cramped with the narrow handlebars. They measure 42cm and I'm used to 52cm on my hybrid. It does seem to restrict my breathing somewhat and creates some fatigue in my shoulders. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

You should be able to get 44cm, or 46cms in the same model that you have currently. Your LBS can probably help you. If not, there is always mail order, but I always try and keep my money in the community if possible.

I don't think you will have much luck getting anything bigger than a 46.

No, it's 10cm, which is about 4" difference (2.54cm = 1"), and can make a difference in not only comfort, but also breathing ability. Part of it is the new position, but a wider bar may help. I've never seen anything wider than 46cm in a drop bar, but that doesn't mean that they don't exist.

What is 52 on your hybrid? the end-to-end width. Try measuring the width between the web of your thumbs, this should be comparable to the width when riding on the hoods.
42 is standard size for average male.
There are a few things you can try with your current bars. Loosen the brake clamp and rotate the levers so they are canted inwards a few degrees. You can just about do this without disturbing the bar tape. This will force you to adopt a more rounded out arm position.
When you are riding, drop your shoulders, ensure your elbows are flexed and make some space under your armpits. This can relax your chest, despite a narrow bar position.
3TTT is a good source of bars in various sizes and designs but 46 is the max width.

What is 52 on your hybrid? the end-to-end width. Try measuring the width between the web of your thumbs, this should be comparable to the width when riding on the hoods.
42 is standard size for average male.
There are a few things you can try with your current bars. Loosen the brake clamp and rotate the levers so they are canted inwards a few degrees. You can just about do this without disturbing the bar tape. This will force you to adopt a more rounded out arm position.
When you are riding, drop your shoulders, ensure your elbows are flexed and make some space under your armpits. This can relax your chest, despite a narrow bar position.
3TTT is a good source of bars in various sizes and designs but 46 is the max width.


I took your advice and that appears to be working. I still may install a bar that is 46 instead of 44. Every little bit will help. Thanks!