Flat Bar Road Bikes

Flat bar road bikes are road bikes fitted with flat handlebars instead of the dropdown handlebars that are on more traditional road bikes. They’re therefore not used for competitive racing, but are popular with people who want the speed, performance, and technology offered by modern road bikes, but don't like riding with dropdown handlebars.

It’s a relatively new form of bicycle, but all of the leading bike brands now offer multiple flat bar road bike options. At BikeExchange you will find flat bar road bikes for sale from bike shops and individual sellers, with brands such as Specialized, Fuji, Giant, Trek, Liv, and Cannondale. And because we’re the online marketplace for everything bike, you can be sure that you will get the best possible deal.

Sometimes flat bar road bikes are also referred to as fitness bikes.

What you need to know about flat bar road bikes

Any flat bar road bike for sale should offer you all of the components, features, and levels of performance that you would expect if you were buying a standard road bike with a dropdown handlebar. This means a lightweight frame, comfortable seat, efficient brakes, and high quality gears.

They should also have narrow tires so that you can ride with maximum speed and efficiency on the pavement. Often they don't have tires that are quite as narrow as pure racing road bikes though, so that you have the option of taking them onto paths that don't have completely smooth surfaces. This also makes them slightly more forgiving when going over bumps.

Important facts about flat bar road bikes

The distinguishing feature of a flat bar road bike is the handlebar, which offers a more comfortable riding position. It is not as ultra-efficient as the riding position achieved with a dropdown handlebar, but many riders are happy to give up the small increases in performance for a position that is more comfortable, and that allows them to ride for longer distances.

The slightly more upright riding position of a flat bar road bike also improves visibility. This is an advantage in many situations, including when using the bike for commuting in busy cities. Also, the flat handlebar gives you greater control over the bike.

Advantages of flat bar road bikes

Flat bar road bikes deliver similar levels of performance to those you would find on road bikes, but with a more comfortable riding position and agile riding style. This makes them ideal for people who want to build up their fitness by cycling, and for those who want an efficient commuter bike. Many brands and models even include the option of adding racks to carry cargo.

Choosing a flat bar road bike

If you are buying a flat bar road bike, you will quickly find out that there are lots of options to choose from. At BikeExchange, the online marketplace for everything bike, there are hundreds of listings from bike shops and individual sellers. The range includes high performance models priced in the thousands, as well as high quality options that cost hundreds. Your decision will depend on your budget and how you plan to use the bike.