handelbar

Handlebar is a term used to refer to two main meanings: the curved or straight bar used for steering on bicycles and motorcycles, and the handlebar moustache, a distinctive facial hair style.

In bicycles, handlebars come in many shapes. Drop bars are common on road bikes, flat bars on hybrids, and riser bars on some mountain bikes. Other designs include bullhorns and moustache bars, each altering leverage, control, and riding posture. The handlebars are attached to a stem that clamps to the fork steerer and are equipped with grips, brake levers, shifters, and sometimes accessories.

In motorcycles, handlebars influence balance and rider position. Variants range from tall, low, or mid-height configurations, including ape hangers, clubman, drag, and sport styles, each affecting ergonomics, aerodynamics, and weight transfer.

The handlebar moustache is a facial hair style in which the ends are grown long and curved upward or downward, resembling a bar. It has historical associations with 19th century fashion and Western iconography and has seen periodic revivals in contemporary grooming.

The term is sometimes misspelled as handelbar.