Aerobars for Flat Handlebars: How to Set Up an Aero Position on Gravel, MTB or Road

The aero position is no longer just for triathlon bikes

For years, aerobars were associated only with time trial and triathlon bikes and their aero-profile handlebars. But more and more gravel, ultra-distance MTB and road riders want the same thing: a more aerodynamic position and a place to rest their arms on long rides. The good news is that you can fit aerobars to a flat handlebar.

In this guide we explain how it is done, which disciplines it is worth it for and what to look at to get it right. If you want to go straight to the options, see our page on aerobars for aero and flat handlebars.

Can you fit aerobars to a flat handlebar?

Yes. The difference compared with an aero handlebar is the clamping system: on a flat (round-tube) handlebar, the aerobars are mounted using an adapter that wraps around the tube and serves as the base for the extensions. From there, the setup works just like on a triathlon bike: elbow rests, forward extension and grip.

The key is that the adapter is well designed: it must clamp firmly, not mark the handlebar and allow the position to be adjusted. That is why we make the adapters in carbon-fibre-reinforced nylon using 3D printing, which lets us fit them to the exact diameter of your handlebar.

How they are mounted, step by step

• 1. Space on the handlebar: leave clear space on both sides of the stem, with no controls or cables in the way.
• 2. Adapter: the adapter is fixed to the round tube at the correct torque.
• 3. Extensions and elbow rests: these are mounted on the adapter and the spacing between the arms is adjusted.
• 4. Fine-tuning: tilt, height and grip angle until you find a comfortable, powerful position.

Which disciplines is it worth it for?

Fitting aerobars to a flat handlebar makes sense whenever you spend a lot of time riding on the flat or into the wind:

• Gravel and ultra-distance: on long stretches of track or tarmac, resting your arms and narrowing your frontal area makes a noticeable difference to fatigue and speed.
• Marathon / rally MTB: for long transitions between technical sections.
• Road and entry-level triathlon: gain an aero position without buying a time trial bike.

Where it adds nothing is on short, very technical or very hilly routes, where you would hardly use the position.

What to look for in good aerobars for a flat handlebar

Not all aerobars are the same. To make the investment worthwhile, look at:

• Material: carbon for stiffness and lightness. Our structure is hand-laid in Sato T1000-grade carbon fibre.
• Custom adapter: it should fit your handlebar diameter and clamp with no play.
• Adjustments: tilt (0-35º), height and 35º or 50º grips.
• Comfortable elbow rests: pads that spread pressure over long distances.
• Compatibility and backing: they should work with your brand and come with a warranty.

If you are torn between mounting on an aero or a flat bar, we clear it up in our guide to triathlon aerobars: aero vs flat handlebar.

At a glance

Frequently asked questions

Can you fit aerobars to a flat gravel or MTB handlebar?

Yes. They are mounted with an adapter that wraps around the round handlebar tube and serves as the base for the extensions.

Do they work with any handlebar diameter?

The adapter is made to measure to fit your handlebar. If in doubt, we advise you before manufacturing.

What material are they made of?

The structure is hand-laid Sato T1000-grade carbon fibre and the adapter is 3D printed in carbon-reinforced nylon.

Is it worth it for gravel?

Yes, especially on long flat or windy stretches, where resting your arms and narrowing your frontal area makes a real difference.

Add an aero position to your flat-bar bike

If you ride gravel, mountain or road and want a more aerodynamic position and somewhere to rest your arms on long rides, we have aerobars made to your measurements, with their adapter.

See aerobars for flat handlebars →

Prefer to explore the whole range? Take a look at the triathlon aerobars collection.