What are aero bars?
Aero bars, sometimes called "clip on aerobars", "triathlon aero bars" or "tri-bars", are handlebar extensions that mount close to the center of the handlebar and cantilever out over the front wheel. As the name suggests, aero bars allow you to get into a more aerodynamic position by lowering your upper body and bringing your arms in-line with your torso. Unlike other handlebar positions, aero bars provide both hand grips as well as arm rests, allowing you to significantly reduce the pressure on your wrists and hands. The best clip on aero bars offer a wide range of adjustments to the height and separation of the bars and arm rests, allowing you to find the right balance of aerodynamic positioning and comfort.
Check out Redshift Quick Release Aero Bars
How do you install aero bars on road bikes?
Road bikes typically do not come with aero bars, so specialty clip on aero bars can be added. "Clip on" refers to the fact that they are bolted onto the handlebar and can be removed with the right tools. Typically, clip on aero bars are installed once and are not regularly removed. Redshift's quick-release aero bars, however, can be quickly installed or removed without tools.
Most road bike handlebars can accommodate aero bars, but it's important to verify that your bike's handlebars are compatible. Check out our bike compatibility guide to see how this works with your bike.
Why should I put aero bars on my road bike?
After the thrill of doing a first triathlon, many people start looking for ways to go faster. You see other athletes out on the course riding by you on six thousand dollar bikes and you start to wonder, can I afford this sport? The answer is yes. On the bike leg of the triathlon, increasing your speed is all about reducing aerodynamic drag. And while there are dozens of small improvements you can make to your components and gear, the investment that gives the greatest returns is adding a good pair bicycle aero bars.
Why is there so much more value in investing in aero bars?
Optimizing aerodynamics can involve a lot of very complex analysis, but there's one simple rule that reigns supreme:
Reduced Frontal Area = Reduced Drag
Because your body represents the biggest percentage of frontal area, putting yourself in a more aerodynamic position means an instant reduction in drag. Most other upgrades are trying to improve the way air flows past an existing piece of equipment, but aero bars actually reduce how much of "you" is catching the wind.
For Superior Aero Riding Position Get The Dual Position Aero Seatpost
How much faster do aero bars make you?
So if you're starting with a standard road bike, you have a lot of room for improvement by riding in an aero position using clip on aero bars. After installing aero bars, riders typically find that they're going 1 to 2 mph faster at the same level of effort. Over a distance and time, this equates to about 1min 40s per 40km faster than without aero bars.
Why quick-release aero bars? 
Redshift Sports Aero Bars offer a unique quick-release feature that allows you to attach and remove the aero bars in a matter of seconds, without using any tools. In the same amount of time that it takes to fill a couple of water bottles, you can switch between a pure road bike for group riding and a tri-bike setup for training or racing. Road bikes are more versatile than dedicated triathlon or time trial bikes, and adding quick-release aero bars lets you take full advantage of a single bike.
Why Clip-On Aerobars are a Game-Changer for Triathlons
When it comes to triathlon racing, every second counts, and the equipment you choose can make all the difference. Clip-on aerobars are the secret weapon that many triathletes use to gain a competitive edge. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or competing for a podium spot, these innovative handlebars offer performance-enhancing benefits that will transform your ride.
Maximized Aerodynamics
The primary advantage of clip-on aerobars is their ability to position you in a more aerodynamic posture. By allowing you to extend your arms and drop your torso closer to the bike, aerobars reduce wind resistance, making you faster with less effort. This streamlined position helps you conserve energy, allowing you to race harder and longer during the bike portion of your triathlon.
Improved Comfort for Longer Rides
Triathlons often involve long, grueling hours on the bike, and comfort is key. Clip-on aerobars help relieve pressure on your lower back and shoulders, which are prone to fatigue in a traditional riding position. By shifting your weight and providing extra support for your forearms, these bars reduce strain, helping you maintain better posture and avoid discomfort throughout your race.
Enhanced Control and Stability
With clip-on aerobars, you’ll experience increased stability and control during your bike leg. They allow you to maintain a consistent grip and position, which is especially beneficial during fast descents or in challenging wind conditions. The added stability lets you focus on maintaining speed rather than constantly adjusting your grip or posture.
Easy to Install and Adjust
One of the best features of clip-on aerobars is how simple they are to install and adjust. Unlike full aero handlebars that require complete bike modifications, clip-ons can be easily mounted to your existing handlebars, allowing you to convert your road bike into a triathlon-ready machine. You can also adjust the armrests and extensions for a more personalized fit, ensuring that you’re comfortable and efficient during your race.
Perfect for Transitioning Between Disciplines While Training
While most triathletes like to have aerobars for their event, group rides require that aerobars are left off the bike for safety. The Quick-Release aerobars are a perfect option to quickly go from training to event-ready by adding/removing the bars in 30 seconds.
Boost Your Speed, Save Your Energy
Every triathlete knows the importance of pacing yourself. Clip-on aerobars are designed to keep you in an aerodynamic, energy-efficient position, so you can ride faster without burning out. This energy savings is critical when you’re facing the swim-to-bike and bike-to-run transitions, helping you save your legs for the final push in the race.
Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or new to the sport, clip-on aerobars are an invaluable upgrade to your bike setup. They offer increased speed, comfort, and control, giving you the edge you need to excel in your next triathlon. By incorporating these simple but powerful accessories into your ride, you’ll be able to take your performance to the next level and stay competitive throughout the race.
FAQs: Aerobars for Road Bikes
Are aerobars good for road bikes?
Yes! While road bikes are not specifically designed for aerobars, clip-on aerobars allow you to achieve a more aerodynamic position, reducing drag and increasing speed. They are particularly beneficial for long-distance rides, triathlons, and time trials.
How much faster do aerobars make you on a road bike?
Adding aerobars can increase your speed by 1-2 mph with the same effort level. Over a standard 40km time trial, this can result in a time savings of 1 minute 40 seconds or more compared to riding in an upright position.
Can you put aerobars on a road bike with drop handlebars?
Most road bikes with drop handlebars are compatible with clip-on aerobars, but it’s important to check the handlebar diameter and clamp compatibility before purchasing.
Are aerobars safe for group rides?
Aero bars are not recommended for group rides because they limit your ability to quickly brake or maneuver in a paceline. However, they are ideal for solo training, time trials, and triathlons.
How do I install aerobars on my road bike?
Installing clip-on aerobars is a simple process:
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Check Compatibility – Ensure your handlebars can accommodate aerobars.
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Position the Aerobars – Attach them near the handlebar’s center for stability.
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Adjust Armrests & Extensions – Find a comfortable position that balances aerodynamics and control.
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Tighten the Clamps – Secure the aerobars in place, ensuring they don’t move while riding.
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Test Your Position – Ride in a safe area to ensure proper comfort and control.
Why choose quick-release aerobars?
Quick-release aerobars, like Redshift Sports Aero Bars, allow you to switch between an aero and standard road bike setup in seconds—without tools. This flexibility makes them perfect for riders who train and race on the same bike.
What’s the best saddle position when using aerobars?
When using aerobars on a road bike, many riders benefit from shifting their saddle slightly forward to maintain a strong, comfortable pedaling position, a perfect application for the redshift dual position seatpost!