Used in triathlons and cycling time trials, aerobars help a bicyclist race faster by altering body position. Aerobars change a cyclist's body position from the standard upright cycling position to a more aerodynamic position. The upper body is tucked lower to the bars with arms bent and extended forward. To take advantage of these aerodynamic gains, aerobars need to be set up properly.
Step 1
Set the aerobars so your forearms are level to the ground. When you use aerobars, your elbows rest in two pads and your hands hold two extension tubes. To get into the best body position, you'll want your forearms parallel to the ground.
Step 2
Adjust the reach to your aerobars. In the full aerobar tuck position, the ideal angle in your elbows is 90 to 110 degrees, explains professional triathlon and cycling coach Steve Pyle on his website Tri-eCoach. If you have less bend in your elbows, then your bars are set too far forward and you will most likely not be in the most aerodynamic position.
Step 3
Configure the width between your elbow pads. You also need to set up your elbow pads. When setting up your elbow pads, your first priority is comfort. Narrower or wider elbow positions have little affect on aerodynamics so position your pads to maximize your comfort.
Tips and Warnings
- You can buy aerobars that clip on to standard road cycling bars. These bars are the least expensive and can be easily added or taken off depending on the type of riding. If you are going to be competing with aerobars, spend time riding in them to get used to the altered body position.
- You should not use aerobars for normal group rides. When using aerobars, you have significantly less control steering and braking your bike.
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