How To Cut Your Bars:
To determine the best width handlebars for you, start wide and trim 10 mm at a time (5 mm from each side of the bar). Remember, you can always take more off, but you can’t add it back on!
- Remove your handlebars from the bike and remove all accessories from the handlebars. Leaving the bars on the bike is a bad idea because small metal flakes can make their way into the fork stanchions or carbon dust can get on your bike.
- Place the bars on a countertop.
- Measure the appropriate width and put a piece of tape where you will cut. For example, if trimming your bars down 20mm, it will be 10 mm on each side. Make sure the tape is even.
- For an ALUMINUM BAR, use a pipe cutter to make an even trim on both sides. File sharp edges. Pipe cleaners make for a simple cut without having to use a hacksaw.
- For a CARBON BAR, use a hacksaw with a tungsten carbide blade. Place masking tape over the cut mark and make a mark on top of the masking tape. This will prevent the carbon from fraying.
- Place the handlebars in a bike stand and clamp down so they are parallel with the floor.
- Use a lock-on grip as a guide if using a hacksaw to ensure a straight cut. Use smooth strokes for a clean cut using a hacksaw and file any sharp edges.
- Put your bars back on your bike, add grips and accessories.
- If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself or don’t have the right supplies, a bike shop will be happy to help you out.
- Now get your shred on!
Reference: Our friends at Liv Cycling
