How far apart should Aero bars be?
#1
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Bikes: Specialized Tarmac SL7 / S-Works Crux
How far apart should Aero bars be?
I recently got these as a gift, Profile-design Sonic CSX. I have installed them very close to the stem because my handle bar tapers into a smaller diameter. Is there a rule of thumb to spacing these bars away some each other.

Overall View.

Front View Close up.
Thank you !

Overall View.

Front View Close up.
Thank you !
#4
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Bikes: Specialized Tarmac SL7 / S-Works Crux
Do you loose bike control the closer they are to each other? is it more aero and better to a certain point? maybe some people can post some pics of their "dash" or can someone link me to one?
#7
What happened?
Joined: Jun 2007
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From: Around here somewhere
Bikes: 3 Rollfasts, 3 Schwinns, a Shelby and a Higgins Flightliner in a pear tree!
I recommend the ultra wide 'Ben Hur' model with spear holders. When racing in Rome it cuts competition and removes drafting problems impressively!
#8
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Joined: Dec 2007
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From: NWNJ
Bikes: Road bike is a Carbon Bianchi C2C & Grandis (1980's), Gary Fisher Mt Bike, Trek Tandem & Mongoose SS MTB circa 1992.
As close together as is Comfy..remember if your not comfy you will not stay in ther aero position..closer is better bust Comfy is best....What ever works for you....
Ride strong
Ride strong
#9
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Another thing to consider is your breathing. Aero is critical, but you don't want to pull them so close together that it forces your shoulders so far in that you compress your chest and affect your breathing. You want your arms to be as close together and comfortable as possible while still allowing your chest to be fully open so you can breathe at maximum efficiency. I think it is possible to be extremely aero and yet sacrifice time/energy output in the long haul. Just my 2 cents (disclaimer: I am by no means a professional bike fitter).
#11
I'm having the same problem, My bars were so close that my forearms were hurting, of course I've been called Popeye before because I have large forearms but I think I'm going to move mine out and try it. now if i can just get my left cleat to lock in I'd be fine!
#12
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From: Forresters Beach, Australia.
Bikes: Pinarello FPQuattro, Giant XTC 29er
Another thing to consider is your breathing. Aero is critical, but you don't want to pull them so close together that it forces your shoulders so far in that you compress your chest and affect your breathing. You want your arms to be as close together and comfortable as possible while still allowing your chest to be fully open so you can breathe at maximum efficiency. I think it is possible to be extremely aero and yet sacrifice time/energy output in the long haul. Just my 2 cents (disclaimer: I am by no means a professional bike fitter).
Personal preference at the end of the day though. Be interesting to walk around on a time trial day at a pro-tour event ( or even major tri race) and see what everyones formula is. I'd bet there's a lot of variation.
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