Handlebar ends are called bar ends or bar-ends. They are usually made of aluminium, carbon fibre or plastic and come in various shapes, sizes and colours. Some common types of handlebar ends are:

Straight: These are simple tubes that extend perpendicular to the handlebars. They provide a horizontal grip that can help with climbing and sprinting.
Curved: These have a bend or curve that follows the shape of your hand. They offer a more ergonomic grip that can reduce wrist strain and fatigue.
L-shaped: These have a 90-degree angle that creates a vertical grip. They can help with steering control and stability on rough terrain.
Ergonomic: These have a contoured design that matches the palm of your hand. They can improve comfort and reduce pressure points.

Why use handlebar ends?

Handlebar ends can have several benefits for mountain bikers, such as:

More hand positions: Handlebar ends allow you to change your grip and posture depending on the terrain and situation. This can prevent numbness, cramps and soreness in your hands, arms and shoulders.
More leverage: Handlebar ends give you more leverage when climbing hills or accelerating out of corners. You can use them to pull up on the bars and shift your weight forward for better traction and power transfer.
More control: Handlebar ends can improve your steering control and stability on technical trails. You can use them to maneuver around obstacles, balance on narrow sections or brake more effectively.

How to choose handlebar ends?

When choosing handlebar ends for your bike, you should consider factors such as:

Compatibility: Make sure that the handlebar ends fit your handlebars properly. You may need to cut off some grips or move some components like shifters or brakes to make room for them.
Size: Choose handlebar ends that suit your hand size and preference. Too long or too short bar ends may cause discomfort or interfere with your riding style.
Shape: Pick handlebar ends that match your riding style and goals. For example, if you want more comfort, go for curved or ergonomic bar ends; if you want more speed, go for straight bar ends; if you want more versatility, go for L-shaped bar ends.
Material: Select handlebar ends that are durable, lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Aluminium is a common choice as it is strong, light and affordable; carbon fibre is lighter but more expensive; plastic is cheaper but less durable.

How to use handlebar ends?

To get the most out of your handlebar ends, you should follow these tips:

Adjust them properly: Make sure that the handlebar ends are securely attached to your bars at a comfortable angle. You may need to experiment with different positions until you find what works best for you.
Use them sparingly: Handlebar ends are not meant to replace your main grips but rather complement them. You should only use them when needed, such as when climbing steep hills or tackling rough terrain. Otherwise, stick to your normal grips for better handling and safety.
Maintain them regularly: Check your handlebar ends regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Replace them if they become loose, cracked or bent.