An In-Depth Guide to MTB Handlebar Widths and Selection

Width, rise, sweep, clamp size — handlebar specs decide how your bike fits and how it handles. Here’s how to choose the right MTB handlebar, and how to trim it to your perfect width.

Bar Bore (Clamp Diameter)

Stems take either a 31.8mm or 35mm bar. 35mm adds stiffness for rugged terrain; 31.8mm keeps a touch more comfort. On Funn bars, the size is printed at the center or grip section — always match it to your stem.

Handlebar Material

Aluminum

6-series alloy — like the Full On and Upturn — is versatile, corrosion-resistant and affordable. 7-series alloy — like the Kingpin — is stiffer and lighter for more precise handling, at a higher price.

Carbon Fiber

Carbon bars like the Black Ace are exceptionally light and excel at absorbing trail buzz — the pick for riders who put a premium on weight and comfort.

Black Ace Carbon Handlebar

UD carbon, stiff yet comfortable — 7, 15 or 30mm rise, with six sticker colorways to match your ride.

VIEW BLACK ACE

Handlebar Shape

Flat Bars

A straight profile that puts you in a forward, powerful position — ideal for XC speed and efficiency, and favoured by trail riders who want direct feedback. From Funn: the Flame On.

Riser Bars

A gentle upward curve for a more upright stance, better visibility and control in technical terrain — the go-to for downhill and all-mountain. From Funn: the Black Ace, Full On, Kingpin and Upturn.

Width

Wider bars add leverage and stability — the downhill and aggressive-trail choice. Narrower bars are more aerodynamic and thread through tight trees more easily, which XC riders appreciate. Not sure? Many bars, including Funn’s, are designed to be cut down — start wide and trim to fit.

Rise

Rise is the height difference between the bar clamp and the bar ends. Low rise puts weight over the front wheel for direct steering and an aggressive stance; high rise sits you upright for comfort and confidence on varied terrain. It’s personal — riding style, bike geometry and trails all play in.

Upsweep and Backsweep

Upsweep (typically 4–6°) angles the bar ends upward to keep your wrists neutral. Backsweep (typically 5–9°) angles them back toward you, matching your arms’ natural line. The right combination prevents wrist strain on long rides — test different setups to find what fits your anatomy.

Conclusion

Match the clamp to your stem, the material to your budget, and the shape, width and sweep to the way you ride. The right handlebar feels like an extension of yourself — and every ride gets better for it.