Choosing Handlebars for Touring Enthusiasts!

First, let's discuss the types of motorcycle handlebars available and which ones are suitable for different riders.
There are two main types of motorcycle handlebars:
separate handlebars (commonly known as "sepahans") and bar handlebars (commonly known as "barhans"). Separate handlebars, as the name suggests, are split into left and right parts and are composed of separate components.
They generally result in a forward-leaning riding posture and are very sporty in both appearance and performance.
They are often standard on supersport and touring bikes and are suitable for high speeds as they significantly reduce air resistance. Bar handlebars, on the other hand, are, as the name also suggests, handlebars made from a single bar.
Since they are fixed to the top bridge with handlebar clamps, the handlebar position is inevitably higher than separate handlebars. Their respective advantages and disadvantages are as follows:

 

◎ Separate Handlebars

Advantages
・Allows for an aggressive riding style to be fully enjoyed
・Handlebar angle, fore-aft position, and height can be freely adjusted
・Facilitates front-end loading
・Lower profile gives a sporty appearance, which is cool!

Disadvantages
・More difficult to install than bar handlebars
・Greater damage to the vehicle in case of a fall (especially the tank)
・Narrow steering angle makes it difficult to make tight turns
・Tiring, so not suitable for long distances (puts a lot of strain on the body)
・Some products may not allow for a handlebar lock

◎ Bar Handlebars

Advantages
・More relaxed riding position allows for comfortable riding (less tiring)
・Larger steering angle makes it easy to make tight turns, suitable for city riding
・Easier to install than separate handlebars
・Generally cheaper than separate handlebars and available in a wide variety of types (colors, shapes, materials)
・Highly versatile

Disadvantages
・Limited ability to lower the riding position
・May feel insufficient when wanting to ride aggressively, such as on curves

These are the main points.
Well, bar handlebars don't have many significant disadvantages. Conversely, despite the many disadvantages of separate handlebars, their attractive appearance has garnered strong support from a specific segment of riders.
For those who want to lower the front-end appearance, a classic method is to reverse-mount bar handlebars. While reducing damage in a fall compared to separate handlebars is an advantage, being a bar handlebar means the riding position cannot be adjusted.

In conclusion, while it depends on individual preference, bar handlebars are naturally less tiring and therefore more suitable for touring.

Now that we know bar handlebars are more suitable for touring, I'll provide some tips on how to choose handlebars for those who are still unsure!

◯ Width
Some prefer a wide width, while others prefer a narrow one.
Find a width that feels easy to apply force and stable for you.

◯ Height
If handlebars are too high, it's difficult to pull them.
While looks are important, choose a height that allows for easy pushing and pulling.

◯ Silhouette
The appearance and silhouette change. This is a matter of preference, but isn't it a great pleasure of handlebar customization?
The overall impression changes dramatically depending on the handlebars, so try to find handlebars that complement your bike and that you like the look of.

◯ Pullback and Droop Angle
Changes in grip position affect how easily you get tired, how easily you can load the front wheel, and how tucked in your elbows are.
There are some handlebars with eccentric shapes that experiment with pullback and droop angles, but be careful not to prioritize looks too much and sacrifice stability and comfort, as that would defeat the purpose.

◯ Grip
Choosing based on grip comfort is also an option.
Since you can't know without actually touching them, it's difficult to judge online.

◯ Price and Quality
This is about cost performance, so to speak.
Major brands often have consistent quality, but it's best to choose something with a good balance of price and quality based on reviews and by seeing it in person.
Be careful, as a higher price doesn't necessarily guarantee a better product.

Next, I'll introduce some recommended products, specifically what kind of handlebars different manufacturers offer, and which ones are particularly suitable for touring.

◯ Effex EZ-FIT Bar

These come with pre-drilled holes for each specific model, and you can choose your preferred pullback and height.
The riding position will be more relaxed than with stock handlebars, so you're sure to enjoy touring even more! The price is also very reasonable and reassuring.

◯ Daytona 50B Handlebar

https://bikeman.jp/products/d-91003

It also has holes drilled for switch box anti-rotation, eliminating the need for troublesome replacement of wires, harnesses, cables, and hoses!
This is recommended for those who want to make riding easier without significantly altering the stock riding position.
You'll be surprised how much better the ride comfort becomes with just a slight change in handlebars, and at this price!

◯ Vertex Bar Handlebar High Type

https://bikeman.jp/

This is an upright handlebar product that also goes well with naked bikes.
This popular product is inexpensive yet makes long-distance riding very comfortable. Its natural shape provides a relaxed and optimal position.
Considering the price, the quality of the chrome plating is also good, making it an upright handlebar with the best cost performance.

◯ Bonus: 5 Handy Handlebar Accessories
Since we're on the topic, I'd like to introduce a few items here that will enhance your touring experience.
・Motorcycle USB Port

https://bikeman.jp/

・Universal Brace Bar Kit

https://bikeman.jp/

・Waterproof Smartphone Holder

https://bikeman.jp/products/drc-un-j0110

・Throttle Assist

https://bikeman.jp/

・Drink Holder

https://bikeman.jp/

These five items are highly recommended as they will further enrich your touring experience! Please feel free to collect your favorites. In particular, you will definitely feel less tired when riding for long periods if you install a throttle assist.
However, be sure to check in advance as installation may not be possible depending on the shape of your handlebars.

So far, I've discussed choosing handlebars suitable for touring.

◯ Between separate handlebars and bar handlebars, bar handlebars are more suitable for touring.
◯ The best fit depends on individual physique and motorcycle, including width, height, and angle.
◯ There are many good and affordable products among the wide variety of bar handlebars!

This sums it up quite well, wouldn't you say?
Regarding handlebar manufacturers, Hurricane is also a very famous and classic brand.
When choosing motorcycle handlebars for touring enthusiasts, prioritizing how comfortable long rides will be is more important than focusing too much on aggressive settings.
Find handlebars that suit your preferences and style, and enjoy a higher level of touring!