How to Properly Fit Aerobars

Aerobars were introduced to the mainstream bicycling world in 1989 at the Tour De France. In what many consider the most exciting finish in the race's history, American Greg LeMond used the bars during the final time trial and pulled out the smallest time gap win in the history of the Tour. Aerobars have been adopted by triathlon competitors and are routinely used on triathlon bicycles. Like most cycling gear, aerobars must be properly fitted to achieve peak performance.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Assistant
  • Hex wrenches
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Instructions

    • 1

      Install the aerobars onto the bicycle at the drop bars. If you're using full aerobar set-ups, remove the old drop bars using the hex wrenches and place them onto the stem. Keep the aero-extensions where your arms rest in the center of the bars.

    • 2

      Adjust the seat height of the bicycle to your proper height. As a rule, your seat should be high enough that you must lean slightly over to get a toe on the ground. Sit on the seat and lean slightly against a wall. Lean onto the aerobars, gripping them as you would during a ride.

    • 3

      Feel for a proper distance between the seat and the aerobars. Your arms must be flat against the arm cradles and you should have between an 80- to 90-degree bend at the elbows. Your back and head should form a slight arc coming off the bars.

    • 4

      Stay in this position while your assistant looks at your body and arm position from the side. Adjust the seat forward if your elbow angles are too slack. Use the hex wrench to loosen any seat stem bolts and slide the seat forward in 1/4-inch increments. Slight adjustments are all that are needed.

    • 5

      Continue to make the micro-adjustments until the 80- to 90-degree angle is achieved.