An Introduction to Drop Handlebar Basics

Whether you are new to the sport or have been riding for a while, learning the fundamentals of cycling and bike handling are an important key to improving performance and becoming more comfortable on the bike.

While most riders quickly find a certain position that is the most comfortable, knowing and using all three positions on drop handlebars is an important skill. Knowing when and how to use these positions will help you to be safer, pedal faster, and become more comfortable on the bike, no matter what the situation or conditions.

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Here are the three basic handlebar positions for drop handlebars and when to use them.

The Tops

Most novice cyclists or those new to road bikes will find this position to be the most comfortable because it puts you in the most upright position. But because of the lack of control over the bike and the distance that the hands have to travel to the brakes, it is not always the best choice. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of the position.

• Least aerodynamic
• Good long, steady climbing position
• Upright posture opens up the diaphragm, allowing you to take deeper breaths and consume more oxygen
• Tilts the hips back, which allows you to recruit more of the gluteal muscles (which are among the largest and strongest in the body) and helps to increase power on climbs
• Should only be used when riding slow or on climbs because of the inability to brake if needed
• Shouldn't be used when riding in heavy traffic or on group rides

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The Hoods

Of the three positions, riding with the hands on the hoods (above the brake and shifters) can be considered the happy medium. It permits easy braking, is somewhere in between aerodynamic and upright, and allows for good control over the bike. Here are other factors to consider when riding on the hoods:

• Easiest position to change gears from
• More comfortable than the drop position for many riders
• Ideal for climbing out of the saddle
• Can be used to change hand/body position from the tops on long climbs
• Is generally around 3 kmph slower than riding in the drops (under the same effort)
• Not good for long, fast descents, as your center of gravity isn't low enough to control the bike at high speeds
• Easier for hands to slip off bars in corners or on uneven roads

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The Drops

Using the drops generally is the last position that new riders become comfortable with. The position is more aggressive, which can put a strain on the muscles of the lower back and neck, especially if you have not had a proper bike fit. With that being said, using the drops has many advantages that should not be discounted because of lack of comfort early on. Practice riding in this position will help your overall ability and performance on the bike. It just takes some getting used to.

Here are what the drops (hooks) position is good and bad for:

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• Gives you the most overall control over your bike, lowering your center of gravity
• Perfect position for descending
• Good for riding in nervous groups when racing
• Hand position is closer to the bottom of the break lever, which translates to greater leverage and more stopping power
• Generally considered the safest position to ride in
• Most aerodynamic position
• Hard to maintain position for long periods of time
• Not a good climbing position (unless your name is Marco Pantani)
• Excellent for short sprints because the position allows you to stand (which generates more power) and still stay somewhat tucked in an aerodynamic position
• When you're in contention for a win, this position is best to use to lunge for the finishline

Drop handlebars were invented because of the different advantages offered in each of the three positions. To become a better, more complete rider, practice using all three positions to get the most out of your bike and your body.

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