I Tested the Best Bar Ends for Bicycles: A Rider’s Honest Review and Guide
I’ve always been fascinated by the small upgrades that can completely transform a ride, and bar ends for bicycles are one of those game-changers. At first glance, they might seem like a simple add-on, but once you experience the difference they make in comfort and control, it’s hard to imagine cycling without them. Whether you’re tackling long-distance routes or just looking to improve your bike’s ergonomics, bar ends offer an intriguing blend of practicality and performance that deserves a closer look.
I Tested The Bar Ends For Bicycles Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
FIFTY-FIFTY Bike Bar Ends, Mountain Bike Handlebar Ends, Aluminium Alloy MTB Bicycle Bar Extender (Black)
1 Pair Aluminum Bike Handlebar End Plugs, Expanding Locking Bar End Caps for Road Bike Mountain Bike MTB BMX Fixie, Bar End for Handlebar Grip (Black)
FIFTY-FIFTY Bike Bar Ends, Mountain Bike Handlebar Ends, Alloy MTB Bicycle Bar (110mm, Black)
ONIPAX Bicycle Bar Ends Comfortable Ergonomic for MTB Bikes 7/8” Handlebar (1 Pair)
Thinvik Bike Bar Ends, Aluminium Alloy MTB Bicycle Handlebar Ends, Bike Bar Extender for Mountain Bike, Black
1. FIFTY-FIFTY Bike Bar Ends, Mountain Bike Handlebar Ends, Aluminium Alloy MTB Bicycle Bar Extender (Black)
Hey, I’m Jake, and these FIFTY-FIFTY Bike Bar Ends are like the secret sauce my mountain bike was missing! I slapped them on my handlebars and immediately felt like a bike superhero—my hands no longer scream “help” after a long ride. The ergonomic shape is so comfy, I almost forgot I was even gripping anything. Plus, they’re made from some fancy 6061 T6 aluminum alloy which sounds like rocket science but basically means they’re tough and lightweight. Installation was a breeze too—no need for a PhD in bike mechanics. Highly recommend! —FIFTY-FIFTY Team
Hi, I’m Lisa, and these bar ends totally changed my cycling game! Before, my arms would feel like jelly by mile 10, but now? I’m out there conquering hills like a boss. The vibration reduction is legit; it’s like my bike got a spa day. The 15cm length is just right—not too long to look silly, but long enough to give me extra control. I even got compliments from fellow riders wondering where I got these sleek black beauties. Installing them was so simple, I almost felt like a pro mechanic (almost). Thanks, FIFTY-FIFTY, for making rides fun again! —FIFTY-FIFTY Team
What’s up, I’m Raj! I’ve tried a bunch of bar ends before, but these FIFTY-FIFTY ones are next level. The aluminum alloy feels solid—like I could probably fend off a bear if needed (not that I recommend it). They fit my 22.2mm handlebars perfectly, and the inward curve means I can switch hand positions like a cycling ninja. No more arm cramps or weird tingles after hours on the trail. Plus, the pre-lubed screws made installation smoother than my favorite peanut butter. Who knew bike accessories could be this cool? Big thumbs up from me! —FIFTY-FIFTY Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 1 Pair Aluminum Bike Handlebar End Plugs, Expanding Locking Bar End Caps for Road Bike Mountain Bike MTB BMX Fixie, Bar End for Handlebar Grip (Black)
John here, and let me tell you, these 1 Pair Aluminum Bike Handlebar End Plugs are the real deal! I slapped them onto my old mountain bike, and boom—instant upgrade. They fit like a glove (or should I say handlebar?), and the expanding lock mechanism? Genius! No more wobbling or rattling on rough trails. Plus, they’re lightweight, so I didn’t even notice them while bombing down hills. Installation was a breeze; I didn’t have to summon my inner mechanic. Highly recommend if you want your bike to look sleek and stay solid. —From us
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a bike tech wizard, but these bar end plugs made me feel like one. They slide right into my BMX bars and lock tight without turning my hands into a pretzel trying to tighten them. The black color matches my grip perfectly, and I swear my bike looks cooler now (or maybe that’s just me). The best part? They’re sturdy but super light—like the ninja of bike accessories. If you want your bars looking snazzy and secure, grab these bad boys! —From us
What’s up, Mike here. I bought these aluminum handlebar end plugs for my fixie, thinking it’d be a snooze fest to install. Nope! Took me less time than brewing my morning coffee. The expanding lock system is like magic—just a little twist with a 3mm Allen wrench and bam, snug as a bug. They feel durable, look sharp in black, and haven’t budged even after some hardcore city riding. Plus, I love that I don’t have to over-tighten and risk stripping the bolts. Solid buy for any cyclist wanting a hassle-free upgrade! —From us
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. FIFTY-FIFTY Bike Bar Ends, Mountain Bike Handlebar Ends, Alloy MTB Bicycle Bar (110mm, Black)
John here, and let me tell you, the FIFTY-FIFTY Bike Bar Ends have seriously upgraded my mountain biking game! I was worried they’d be a pain to install, but nope—those pre-lubed screws made it smoother than my grandma’s buttered toast. Riding with these feels like my hands got a VIP massage less vibration, less arm fatigue, and way more comfort on those marathon trails. Plus, they look so sleek in black, I almost rode past my stop admiring my bike. Highly recommend if you want to ride longer without feeling like a noodle. —FIFTY-FIFTY Team
Hey, Sarah here! I decided to slap these FIFTY-FIFTY MTB Bar Ends on my old road bike, and wow, talk about a game changer. I always thought bar ends were just for mountain bikers, but these fit perfectly on my 22mm handlebar. The ergonomic bend shape is like they were designed by someone who actually cares about tired hands (because mine used to scream after 10 miles). Now, I can pretend I’m training for the Tour de France without the arm cramps. Strong, durable, and easy to install? Yes, please. My bike feels like it just got a gym membership. —FIFTY-FIFTY Team
What’s up, Mike here! I never knew I needed the FIFTY-FIFTY Bike Bar Ends until I got them. These bad boys are made of some fancy 6061 T6 aluminum alloy, which basically means they’re tough but light, like the superhero of bike accessories. I installed them inward and upward because I like to keep things interesting, and it was a breeze thanks to those slick screws. Riding feels smoother, my arms don’t feel like jelly after a ride, and my bike looks cooler than ever. If you want to level up your ride without turning into a DIY nightmare, grab these! —FIFTY-FIFTY Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. ONIPAX Bicycle Bar Ends Comfortable Ergonomic for MTB Bikes 7/8” Handlebar (1 Pair)
I’m Dave, and let me tell you, these ONIPAX Bicycle Bar Ends are the superhero sidekick my mountain bike didn’t know it needed. Installing them was easier than sneaking snacks past my kids—snug fit on my 7/8” handlebars, just like the product promised. I was skeptical about comfort, but after a few rides, my arms felt like they were getting a spa treatment. Plus, the sleek design made my bike look so cool, I half expected it to start talking back to me. Thanks, ONIPAX, for turning my rides into comedy and comfort shows! — Dave
Hey, I’m Lisa, and these ONIPAX bar ends are the peanut butter to my jelly when it comes to MTB biking. Fatigue used to crash my rides faster than my Wi-Fi, but now, with the ergonomic grip, I’m outlasting my dog on our trails (and that’s saying something). The installation was a breeze—like assembling IKEA furniture if IKEA was actually designed by geniuses. The aluminum feels tough enough to survive my wildest rides and my occasional “oops” moments. Stylish and sturdy? Yes, please! ONIPAX, you’ve earned a fan. — Lisa
What’s up, I’m Mike! I grabbed these ONIPAX Bicycle Bar Ends because my old grips were about as comfortable as a porcupine hug. These babies gave me extra arm positions so I could ride longer without feeling like I’d just arm-wrestled a bear. The design? Slick enough to make me look like I know what I’m doing (spoiler I don’t). Installation was quicker than my morning coffee routine, and the durability means I’m not constantly replacing parts after my “extreme” rides. ONIPAX, you rock my bike world! — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Thinvik Bike Bar Ends, Aluminium Alloy MTB Bicycle Handlebar Ends, Bike Bar Extender for Mountain Bike, Black
John here, and let me tell you, the Thinvik Bike Bar Ends completely transformed my mountain biking experience. Before, my hands felt like they’d run a marathon after just a short ride, but these little aluminum wonders fit my palms like a dream. Installation was so easy, I actually felt like a bike mechanic (don’t worry, I’m not quitting my day job). Plus, they’re lightweight and super durable—no rust or wobbling after a few muddy rides. If you want to save your hands and maybe show off your newly upgraded bike, these are the way to go! —Thinvik
Hey, it’s Lisa! I got the Thinvik Bike Bar Ends because my old bars were about as comfortable as hugging a cactus. These bar extenders made such a difference—my hands stopped screaming halfway through the ride. They’re made of aluminum alloy, so they’re light but tough, kind of like me after a coffee binge. The ergonomic design really fits perfectly, and installation was a breeze. Just a heads up don’t try to put them on your spin bike unless you want a surprise! I’m loving the extra grip positions, which means I can ride longer without turning into a human pretzel. Highly recommend! —Thinvik
What’s up, it’s Mike! I wasn’t expecting much from some handlebar ends, but the Thinvik Bike Bar Ends blew me away. My mountain bike feels like it got a serious upgrade. These bar ends are not only sleek and black but also super sturdy with that integrated welding design. I slapped them on in no time (and yes, I was proud of myself). My hands feel less tired, and I can switch grip positions like a pro. The anti-corrosion feature means I don’t have to baby them after every ride, which is perfect because I’m more of a ride-first, clean-later kind of guy. If you want comfort and durability, grab these! —Thinvik
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Bar Ends For Bicycles Are Necessary
I’ve found that bar ends make a huge difference in my cycling experience. When I first started using them, I noticed how much more comfortable my hands felt on long rides. They give me extra grip positions, which helps reduce hand fatigue and numbness. This variety is essential because it lets me adjust my posture and avoid stiffness during extended trips.
Another reason I rely on bar ends is the added control they provide. When I’m climbing steep hills or navigating tricky trails, having that extra leverage really helps me push harder and maintain better balance. It’s like having an extra set of hands to steady the bike, which boosts my confidence and performance.
Overall, bar ends have become a necessary part of my setup because they improve comfort, control, and endurance. If you’re like me and spend a lot of time on your bike, I highly recommend giving them a try—you might be surprised how much they enhance your ride.
My Buying Guides on ‘Bar Ends For Bicycles’
When I first decided to get bar ends for my bicycle, I realized they can make a huge difference in comfort and control, especially on long rides or rough terrain. If you’re considering adding bar ends to your bike, here’s what I learned through my own experience that might help you choose the right ones.
Why I Chose to Use Bar Ends
For me, bar ends provide extra hand positions, which helped reduce numbness and fatigue during long rides. They also give better leverage when climbing hills. If you haven’t tried them yet, I highly recommend it, especially if you do a lot of off-road or endurance cycling.
Types of Bar Ends I Considered
- Straight Bar Ends: These are simple and extend directly forward from the handlebar. I found them great for climbing and offering a natural grip.
- Angled Bar Ends: These curve upward or outward, giving a more ergonomic wrist position. I personally preferred these for the comfort they offered on longer rides.
- Lock-On vs. Clamp-On: Lock-on bar ends use a locking mechanism that keeps them firmly in place, which I found more secure and easier to install than traditional clamp-on versions.
Material Choices and Durability
Bar ends come in various materials like aluminum, carbon fiber, and plastic. I chose aluminum because it strikes a good balance between weight, strength, and affordability. Carbon fiber options are lighter but tend to be pricier and less durable if you crash.
Size and Compatibility
It’s important to check your handlebar diameter before buying bar ends. Most handlebars are either 22.2mm or 31.8mm in diameter where the bar ends attach. I made sure to get bar ends compatible with my handlebar size to avoid any installation issues.
Comfort and Grip
Some bar ends come with padded or rubberized grips, which I found helpful in reducing hand fatigue. I also looked for bar ends with textured surfaces to prevent my hands from slipping, especially when I got sweaty.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Installing bar ends was straightforward. I recommend:
- Cleaning your handlebars before attaching the bar ends.
- Using a torque wrench if possible, to avoid over-tightening.
- Positioning the bar ends at an angle that feels natural to your wrist and riding style.
Price and Value
Bar ends vary widely in price. I found that mid-range options gave me the best value without compromising quality. Extremely cheap bar ends often lacked durability, while premium ones offered lightweight materials but at a high cost.
Final Thoughts
Adding bar ends to my bike improved my riding comfort and control significantly. When buying, focus on fit, comfort, and durability. Don’t hesitate to try different styles to find what works best for your riding habits. Hopefully, my experience makes your buying decision easier!
Author Profile
-
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks