A cycling race likely includes an individual time trial to test a rider's ability to cover the racecourse solo, lacking pacing or drafting aid from teammates or competitors. Both road cyclists and triathletes ride time trial bikes fitted with aerodynamic features, designed to reduce a rider's frontal drag created when air hits his exposed torso. Time trial bars or aerobars, introduced in 1987, position the rider into an aerodynamic tuck, presenting less surface area for the wind to resist.
Bars for Short Course
Time trial bars for short course racing, considered 40 kilometers or less, are designed for speed by reducing the overall weight of the bars. Manufacturers often reduce the width, length and thickness of the padding used to support the rider's forearms. In addition, short course bars offer little if any adjustability--many are fixed in small, medium or large sizes.
Bars for Long Course
Time trial bars used for long course racing, such as 112-mile Ironman triathlon rides, place more emphasis on rider comfort than speed. Manufacturers use thicker, less aerodynamic padding, allowing the rider to be comfortable enough to stay in his aerodynamic tuck for the entire distance and still be able to generate and sustain ample power throughout.
Base or Pursuit Bars
Base bars, often referred to as pursuit bars or bullhorns, provide an area called an extension for the rider to place her hands either when she's up out of the saddle while ascending a hill, or putting in a big effort such as sprinting to the finish line. The extension also allows the rider to apply sufficient force to the braking levers. Base bars are found only on time trial bikes and come in a variety of designs and prices.
Clip-on Bars
A set of clip-on aerobars bolted to your road bike puts you into a more aerodynamic and comfortable riding position than standard road bars. A minor change in the position of your saddle may be required. Riders considering clip-on aerobars should look for designs with the padding positioned high above the bars and farther back toward the torso, making the aero position more comfortable. This option is well suited for entry-level time trial riders or triathletes racing short distances.
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