Can You Install BMX Handlebars On a Mountain Bike?
Mountain biking is a great way to exercise and enjoy the outdoors. BMX riding is also a great way to exercise and have fun. But what if you want to combine the two? Can you put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike?
The short answer is yes. You can put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike. However, before doing so, you need to consider a few things.
First, BMX handlebars are usually wider than mountain bike handlebars. This can make steering your bike more difficult.
Second, BMX handlebars are usually made with steel, while most mountain bike handlebars are made of aluminum, making your bike heavier and more challenging to ride.
So, if you decide to put BMX handlebars on your mountain bike, be prepared for a challenge. But it can be done! Read on to know more about changing BMX Handlebars on a Mountain Bike.
Why Should You Put Bmx Handlebars on a Mountain Bike?
If you’re thinking about putting BMX handlebars on a mountain bike, you should know a few things. First, BMX handlebars are designed for riding on flat, smooth surfaces. They’re narrower than mountain bike handlebars and don’t have as much rise, making them uncomfortable to ride on rough terrain.
Additionally, BMX handlebars don’t offer as much control as mountain bike handlebars, so you may struggle to keep your bike on the trail.
In fact, if you’re looking for a more aggressive riding position, BMX handlebars can help you achieve that.
However, BMX handlebars are often lighter than mountain bike handlebars, so you may be able to save some weight by switching to them. Ultimately, it depends on you if you want to put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike. If you’re comfortable with the trade-offs, it can be a fun way to change your ride.
How Do Mountain Bike Handlebars Differ from BMX Handlebars?
Mountain bike handlebars are designed to give the rider more control while riding on rough terrain. They are usually made of aluminum, which is lighter than steel. Mountain bike handlebars also have a more upright position, making it easier to see the trail ahead.
BMX handlebars are designed for racing and trick riding. They are usually made of steel, which is more vital than aluminum. BMX handlebars also have a more aggressive position, which gives the rider more control while riding.
Considering all these factors, it is not advisable to put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike. The different materials and designs of the two types of handlebars make them incompatible with each other.
Additionally, using BMX handlebars on a mountain bike can be dangerous as it can reduce the rider’s control. If you are looking to modify your mountain bike, it is best to consult with a professional to find the right handlebars for your bike.
Disadvantages of Putting Bmx Handlebar on a Mountain Bike
Geometrical Change
You will be sitting more upright due to the straighter nature of the BMX bars, which will, in turn, make your weight more evenly distributed. This can affect your center of gravity and how you handle the bike on technical terrain.
The Bike Becomes Less Stable
Mountain bike handlebars are more comprehensive than BMX bars. This gives you more control when riding on rough terrain. However, you may struggle to keep your bike on the trail if you switch to BMX bars.
Create More Weight
BMX bars are often heavier than mountain bike bars. This can make your bike more difficult to maneuver, especially on climbs.
Losing of Comfortless
BMX bars are designed for riding on flat, smooth surfaces. However, they may be uncomfortable riding on rough terrain due to their narrower width and lack of rising.
The Benefits of Putting a BMX Handlebar on a Mountain Bike
You can get a few benefits from putting a BMX handlebar on a mountain bike. Considering disadvantages few benefits of putting BMX handlebars on mountain bikes are as follows:
Better Look
BMX handlebar can give your mountain bike a better look. If you are more into the bike’s looks than the performance, then this benefit is for you.
Greater Extent
While the regular mountain bike handlebars have a low extent, BMX handlebars provide more incredible rise, putting the rider in an upright posture that minimizes strain on the wrists and elbows. This is an excellent benefit for those who want to avoid pain and injuries.
Customization
You can simply customize the look of your bike by putting BMX handlebars. You can make your mountain bike unique and stand out from the rest.
Save Money
If you have a BMX handlebar lying around, you don’t have to spend extra money buying new handlebars for your mountain bike. Instead, you can use the BMX handlebar and save some money.
Accessories Room for Additional Features
You can easily add new features and accessories to your mountain bike by using BMX handlebars. This way, you can make your mountain bike even more unique and efficient.
So, these are a few benefits of putting BMX handlebars on mountain bikes. If you want to give your mountain bike a new look or avoid pain and injuries, then putting BMX handlebars on your mountain bike is a great idea.
How to Put BMX Handlebars on a Mountain Bike?
You will need the following items to put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike:
- A mountain bike
- BMX handlebar
- A Phillips head screwdriver
- Allen wrench set
- 8mm wrench or socket
- Socket wrench
- Tape measure or ruler
- Pen or pencil.
- Step 1: First, measure the width of the BMX handlebar. You can do this by using a tape measure or ruler.
- Step 2: Next, you need to determine the stem length of the BMX handlebar. The stem is the part of the handlebar that attaches to the bike frame.
- Step 3: Once you have measured the width and stem length of the BMX handlebar, you need to determine the correct size for your mountain bike.
- Step 4: After you have determined the correct size for your mountain bike, you can proceed to install the BMX handlebar.
- Step 5: First, remove the old handlebar from your mountain bike. You will need to use a Phillips head screwdriver and an Allen wrench set to do this.
- Step 6: Next, you need to install the BMX handlebar on your mountain bike. You will need to use an 8mm wrench or socket and a socket wrench to do this.
- Step 7: Once the BMX handlebar is installed, you need to adjust the handlebar height. You will need to use a tape measure or ruler to do this.
- Step 8: Finally, you need to test ride your mountain bike to ensure that the BMX handlebar is installed correctly.
These are the steps to put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike. Follow these steps carefully, and you will be able to install the BMX handlebar on your mountain bike in no time.
How to Reduce the Risks of Using BMX Handlebars on a Mountain Bike?
If you are looking to reduce the risks of using BMX handlebars on a mountain bike, you need to take some precautions.
- First, you need to ensure that the BMX handlebar is the correct size for your mountain bike. We will suggest you stick with the small height BMX handlebar. However, lower high handlebars like 3-5 inches are also encouraged.
- Second, you need to ensure that the BMX handlebar is installed correctly.
- Third, you need to adjust the handlebar height properly.
- And fourth, always take a test ride on your mountain bike before using it.
By taking these precautions, you will be able to reduce the risks of using BMX handlebars on a mountain bike.
Can I Cut My MTB Handlebars?
The answer is yes. In most cases, you can cut your mountain bike handlebars. However, there are a few things you need to consider before doing so.
- First, the type of handlebars you have will determine how easy or difficult it will be to cut them. For example, aluminum handlebars are easier to cut than carbon fiber handlebars.
- Second, you need to make sure you have the proper tools for the job. Again, a hacksaw or a good set of metal cutting scissors will trick.
- Third, you need to be very sincere when cutting your handlebars. Make sure you measure twice and cut once to avoid any accidents.
- Fourth, after you’ve cut your handlebars, you’ll need to file down the edges to avoid sharp edges.
- Finally, if you’re not sure about cutting your handlebars, you can always take them to the nearest bike shop and have them do it for you.
Cutting your mountain bike handlebars is a relatively easy process, but there are a few things you need to consider before doing it. With the proper tools and care, you can easily cut your handlebars to the desired length.
Are Our Mountain Bike Handlebars Universal?
Mountain bike handlebars aren’t all the same. But in general, most mountain bike handlebars are unique to that bike. There are a few reasons for this.
- First, the handlebars are attached to the frame with various geometry. This means the handlebars have to be in the right shape to fit the edge, and they also have to be attached in the right place.
- Second, Bike handlebars come in a variety of sizes. The handlebar must fit into the stem, and it is the part of the bike that connects the handlebars to the frame. The stem has a specific diameter, so the handlebars have to match.
- Finally, different handlebars have different lengths. This is important because the handlebars have to be the correct length for the rider. If the handlebars are too short, the rider will be uncomfortable, and if they are too long, the rider will have difficulty steering the bike.
Are Bicycle Handlebars Interchangeable?
Bicycle handlebars are not always interchangeable, depending on the type of bicycle. However, many handlebars can be swapped out with relative ease. For example, mountain bike handlebars can be swapped with road bike handlebars.
The main difference is the width, with mountain bike handlebars being much wider. This is because mountain biking requires more control and stability when riding over rougher terrain.
Some handlebars are not compatible with certain types of bicycles. For instance, BMX handlebars should not be used on mountain bikes. BMX bikes are designed for tricks and stunts, and the handlebars are a vital part of that.
In addition, the handlebars on a BMX bike are much shorter and have a smaller grip area than mountain bike handlebars.
It is best to consult with a bicycle mechanic or shop before swapping out handlebars. This is because some technical aspects, such as stem length and bar width, need to be taken into account. Otherwise, the new handlebars may not fit properly or could potentially damage the bicycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are BMX handlebars stronger than MTB models?
BMX handlebars are more substantial than the mountain bike. This is because BMX handlebars are made with steel, while MTB handlebars are made with aluminum. So, steel is more significant than aluminum, and that’s why BMX handlebars are stronger than MTB models.
If you are looking for more strength in your handlebars, go with a BMX model. However, if you are looking for more comfort, a mountain bike handlebar might be a better option. It depends on your personal preferences.
2. Can I put road bike handlebars on my mountain bike?
Road bike handlebars can be used on mountain bikes, but a few things to keep in mind.
Road bike handlebars are typically narrower than mountain bike handlebars. This can make it tougher to control the bike, especially on technical trails.
Second, road bike handlebars are typically positioned lower than mountain bike handlebars. This may make it more challenging to see over obstacles.
Finally, road bike handlebars are made of light-weight materials than mountain bike handlebars.
On rough terrain, this may increase the chance of damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while you can technically put BMX handlebars on a mountain bike, it is not recommended as it significantly alters the bike’s handling characteristics and can potentially be dangerous. Suppose you are looking to customize your mountain bike. Then, do consult with a professional bicycle mechanic to ensure that the modifications are safe and will not adversely affect the bike’s performance.