General Cycling Discussion - Aero Bar Recommendations for Trainer/Touring

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mm718
11-14-11, 02:40 PM
I am looking for aero bars that are relatively inexpensive to use on my trainer this winter. If I like them I might also use them while touring next year. I am 6'2" and proportionately I have a long torso and arms... Is the length of aero bars adjustable? What is the difference between straight (separate) aero bars and the ones that are "u" shaped? What other considerations are there for using aeros on the trainer or touring? I am new to all of this--any help appreciated.

Thanks,

-Mike


bradtx
11-14-11, 07:46 PM
Mike, Profile Airstryke is my choice as the spring loaded arm rests aren't eating handlebar real estate when not in use. For a fixed arm rest model the Syntace C2 is pretty good. The armrests on my older Profile are adjustable for width, but only offer three options, that may've been changed. As the Syntace isn't bridged together they're more finely adjustable.

Brad

mm718
11-15-11, 06:50 AM
Thanks, Brad. Are the lengths of aero bars generally "one size fits all" or do they come in different sizes? I am just wondering if the bars will be too short for me given my height and long torso. What is the difference between the bridged (e.g., Airstryke) and the unconnected (e.g. Syntace)? Is one more comfortable than the other? Advantages, disadvantages to one style over another?

Thanks,

Mike


fietsbob
11-17-11, 09:38 AM
I had an aero bar setup, on a commuter, but, I combined it with a tall near stem,
And a Zzipper 'Thriller' fairing, so the racers superman flat back posture was omitted.

..got a single tube Profile early one, cow horn to aerobar, and back was a single tube.
arm pads bolted to part of a yoke that clamped the tubes, and was in turn clamped
by the stem. [it was a hand-me-down from a friend]

commented in recumbent forum weather didnt go thru my clothing, with the fairing in front.

bradtx
11-17-11, 11:36 AM
Thanks, Brad. Are the lengths of aero bars generally "one size fits all" or do they come in different sizes? I am just wondering if the bars will be too short for me given my height and long torso. What is the difference between the bridged (e.g., Airstryke) and the unconnected (e.g. Syntace)? Is one more comfortable than the other? Advantages, disadvantages to one style over another?

Thanks,

Mike

Seems there isn't much difference in the length between the arm pads and the upturn at the front of the aerobars that I've had. The Airstrykes couldn't be adjusted as narrowly as the non bridged C2, which maybe a concern if you plan to compete in tris or TTs and want the ability to have a very aero position. I primarily was looking for an alternate position when riding centurys and the Airstrykes really worked better for that.

Brad