Stevie95

I have a Marin Kentfield 21 speed.

2011 Marin Kentfield - BikePedia

I am pretty sure it is a 2010 or 2011 model. I am fed up with the standard bars but I am on a tight budget so a new bike is not an option, it is an entry level hybrid but I want to make some longer rides comfortably. Drop/Trekking or possibly Aero Bars? I could care less how it looks.

So main question is how difficult is it to retrofit the gear adjuster and brakes with a total new bar? What is my best case scenario with price? I don't want to spend anything over $150, I have a friend who could salvage me some free drops but I am no mechanic regarding breaks, etc.

Only a senior in high school and parents would not let me by a road bike a few years ago -.- they didn't think I would stick with cycling once I got my license... I've proved them wrong...

fietsbob

Straight to Trekking bar swap would be simple and cost less as the brakes and shifters slip right on.

To the open rear end of the bars , Add bartape or long foam sleeves to the new bars

the figure-8 bend trekking bars out of Asia are about $25

drop bars means new brake levers and cables .. fit of shifter is different too..


You could just add Ergon GR5 grip/barend combinations too, to the bars you have ..

himespau 

Some people have found they like the Origin8 drop bar ends, which would be a cost effective way to try out whether or not you like having drops. Actually doing the conversion to true drop bars would be rather pricey. You need new bars, brake levers, shifters, cables, and tape at the very least. That's going to run you ~$100 minimum unless you can find a used bike (doesn't matter the size) for less than that from which you can scavenge the parts. For that matter, buying a used bike that is what you want might be cheaper.

Stevie95

What do you mean to open rear end of the bars?

I did find this which I could possible swap for current bar. How would I go about doing this? Would I need a new fork maybe too?

https://www.amazon.com/XLC-Multi-Func.../dp/B000NULPIS


Thanks

fietsbob

the Amazon picture is taken as if from the front of the bike ..

no info of what the stem on your bike is , you have to Measure diameters , yourself.

is it open face or is there just 1 bolt gripping the bar center. ?


a typical trekking bar is 1" in the center and 7/8" for the rest of the bars ..



Bike shops they can do that for you, If you are non mechanical .

dynaryder

Like this:


You won't need a new fork.

Stevie95

Ok this helps a lot thank you. I need to see what I can do. I got about $750 currently and trying to allocate all the money between a bicycle, motorcycle/50cc moped, or a 401K (never to early to start saving...)