Figure 1:
Bar-ends
Handlebar extensions, such as bar-ends (Figure 1) or the Satellite Elite bar (Figure 2), provide a secondary hand position on a mountain-style handlebar. Read the Warning about Mechanical Work before performing any service work on your bicycle.
Handlebar extensions should only be used in situations where actuation of the control levers is not needed. In other words, if you might need to apply the brakes, do not use the handlebar extensions, but place your hands on the grips where the brake levers are easily accessible. As an example, bar-ends are designed for climbing only.
Be careful when riding with bar-ends in brushy areas, or narrow trails. Never allow your bar-ends to come in contact with objects which may cause you to lose control of your bicycle.
If you crash your bicycle, remove the bar-ends and inspect the bar-ends and the ends of the handlebar. Replace the handlebar or bar-ends if there is any sign of damage.
If you are unsure of the safety of your handlebar system, do not ride the bicycle; take the bicycle to your dealer for adjustments.
Warning—Improperly adjusted or tightened bar-ends can cause you to lose control and fall. Make sure the bar-ends are positioned and tightened properly before riding the bicycle.
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Figure 1: Bar-ends |
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Figure 2: Handlebar extensions |
Once a month check your bar-ends. Push down on them to make sure they cannot rotate on the handlebars. If the bar-ends slip, follow the procedures in Adjusting bar-ends.
Ensure the bar-ends face forward and away from you, at an angle not less than 15° from parallel to the ground. Never attach bar-ends to anything other than the handlebar. Do not attach bar-ends to bar-ends.
Check that all bolts are tight according to the torque specifications.
If your bicycle has any carbon fiber parts, also follow the carbon fiber composite inspection procedures.
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Figure 3: Bar-end clamp bolt |
Bar-end position, the angle of the bar-ends to the ground, is largely a matter of personal preference blending comfort, efficiency, and balance. Your hands should be comfortable, and able to easily grasp the bar-ends when either seated or standing on the pedals. However, make sure your bar-ends meet the positioning requirements in Inspection.
1. Loosen the handlebar clamp bolt(s) just enough that the bar-ends can be rotated on the handlebar.
2. Position the bar-ends to the desired angle.
3. Tighten as shown in Inspection.
If the bar-ends slip on the bar, remove the bar-ends, clean the handlebar and bar-ends with rubbing alcohol, and follow the inspection and Adjustment procedures to re-position the bar-ends.
Once a year, lubricate the bar-end clamp bolts. Loosen and remove the bolt, apply a thin layer of grease or a similar lubrication to the bolt, and reinstall it. Follow the instructions in Inspection to retighten the bolts.
If the stem or handlebar is made of carbon fiber composite, read the section on Carbon Composite Inspection and Use.
