How To Put Drop Bars On A Mountain Bike? (5 Tips for Successful Conversion)

The Short Answer is:

It is possible to put drop handlebars on a mountain bike. To do so, you will need to buy a new stem and brake cables that are compatible with the mountain bike drop bars. Drop bars allow you to lower your center of gravity while riding at high speeds, which can improve maneuverability and steering when riding fast downhill or into a headwind. They also offer better positions for a firm grip to exert extra pedal force. However, it is important to consider whether you will be riding at high speeds often before adding drop bars to your mountain bike.

If you’re looking to add drop bars to your mountain bike, you’re not alone. Drop bars are becoming increasingly popular among bikepackers and adventure riders.

They offer a lower center of gravity, which can improve maneuverability and steering when riding fast downhill or into a headwind.

However, it’s important to consider whether you’ll be riding at high speeds often before adding drop bars to your mountain bike. In this article, we’ll discuss the topic, “How To Put Drop Bars On A Mountain Bike”.

Understanding Drop Bars and Their Benefits

Drop bars are a type of handlebar that are typically found on road or race bikes and are primarily designed to provide riders with an aerodynamic riding position in order to maximize speed.

They offer a wider range of hand positions, which is crucial for long rides. The curved “drop” section on the bars allows the rider to get into a tuck which reduces drag, a critical element of going faster on a bike.

Drop bars also allow for a wide range of ergonomic hand positions, including the drops position, the hoods position, and the tops position. Having multiple hand positions can help to prevent hand and wrist fatigue and pain on longer rides.

Assessing Compatibility

Before you start the process of putting drop bars on your mountain bike, it’s important to assess compatibility. Not all mountain bikes are compatible with drop bars, and even if they are, you may need to make some modifications to ensure a proper fit.

One of the most important things to consider is the stem of your mountain bike. Drop bars require a stem that is compatible with their clamp diameter, which is typically 31.8mm. You’ll also need to ensure that your brake levers and shifters are compatible with drop bars.

If they’re not, you’ll need to purchase new ones that are designed to work with drop bars. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that the cables and housing are long enough to accommodate the new handlebars.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Components

When putting drop bars on a mountain bike, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and components. The following are the essential components you’ll need to complete the process:

1. Drop Handlebars and Bar Tape: The drop handlebars are the most important component when it comes to putting drop bars on a mountain bike. You’ll need to purchase drop handlebars that are compatible with your stem and brake levers. You’ll also need bar tape to wrap around the handlebars for a comfortable grip.
2. Brake Levers and Shifters: If your current brake levers and shifters are not compatible with drop bars, you’ll need to purchase new ones that are designed to work with drop bars. Make sure to choose brake levers and shifters that are compatible with your bike’s drivetrain.
3. Cables and Cable Housing: You’ll need to replace your current cables and cable housing with longer ones that are designed to work with drop bars. Make sure to choose cables and housing that are compatible with your bike’s drivetrain.
4. Stem and Adapters: You may need to purchase a new stem that is compatible with drop bars. You may also need adapters to ensure a proper fit between the stem and handlebars.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

Putting drop bars on a mountain bike can be a challenging process, but with the right tools and components, it’s possible to do it yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Removing the Old Handlebars: Start by removing the old handlebars and stem from your mountain bike. You’ll need to loosen the bolts that hold the stem in place and remove the handlebars from the stem.
2. Installing the Drop Bars: Install the drop bars onto the stem, making sure that they are aligned properly. Tighten the bolts on the stem to secure the drop bars in place.
3. Mounting Brake Levers and Shifters: Mount the brake levers and shifters onto the drop bars. Make sure that they are positioned correctly and that the cables are routed properly.
4. Routing Cables and Housing: Route the cables and housing through the drop bars and into the frame of the bike. Make sure that they are properly secured and that there is no slack in the cables.
5. Adjusting and Fine-Tuning: Adjust the brake levers and shifters to ensure that they are working properly. Fine-tune the position of the drop bars and brake levers to ensure that you have a comfortable riding position.

Test Riding and Adjustments

After you’ve completed the process of putting drop bars on your mountain bike, it’s important to take your bike for a test ride to ensure that everything is working properly.

During the test ride, pay attention to how the bike handles and how comfortable you feel in your riding position. If you notice any issues, you may need to make some adjustments.

One of the most important things to consider is the position of the drop bars. Make sure that they are positioned in a way that allows you to ride comfortably and efficiently.

You may need to adjust the angle of the bars or the position of the brake levers and shifters to achieve the right fit. You should also pay attention to how the brakes and shifters are working.

Make sure that they are functioning properly and that there is no slack in the cables. If you notice any issues, you may need to adjust the tension on the cables or make other adjustments to ensure that everything is working properly.

Safety Considerations

When putting drop bars on a mountain bike, it’s important to consider safety. Drop bars are designed for road bikes and may not be suitable for all types of mountain biking.

Before adding drop bars to your mountain bike, consider the type of riding you’ll be doing and whether drop bars are appropriate for your needs. It’s also important to ensure that all components are properly installed and functioning before riding your bike.

Make sure that the stem, handlebars, brake levers, and shifters are all securely fastened and that the cables and housing are properly routed. Test the brakes and shifters to ensure that they are working properly before taking your bike out on the trail.

Additionally, it’s important to wear appropriate safety gear when riding your mountain bike, including a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing. Always ride within your skill level and be aware of your surroundings to avoid accidents.

Tips for a Successful Conversion

Converting a mountain bike to drop bars can be a challenging process, but with the right tools and components, it’s possible to do it yourself. Here are some tips to help ensure a successful conversion:

1. Choose the right components: Make sure that you choose drop bars, brake levers, and shifters that are compatible with your mountain bike. Check the clamp diameter of the stem and the compatibility of the brake levers and shifters with your bike’s drivetrain.
2. Take your time: Converting a mountain bike to drop bars can be a time-consuming process. Take your time and make sure that you’re following the instructions carefully to avoid making mistakes.
3. Get help if needed: If you’re not comfortable with the process of converting your mountain bike to drop bars, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional bike mechanic.
4. Test ride your bike: After you’ve completed the conversion process, take your bike for a test ride to ensure that everything is working properly. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure that you have a comfortable riding position and that the brakes and shifters are working properly.
5. Consider your riding style: Drop bars are designed for road bikes and may not be suitable for all types of mountain biking. Consider your riding style and whether drop bars are appropriate for your needs before making the conversion.

Conclusion on How To Put Drop Bars On A Mountain Bike

In conclusion, putting drop bars on a mountain bike can be a challenging process, but with the right tools and components, it’s possible to do it yourself. Drop bars offer a wider range of hand positions and a more aerodynamic riding position, which are beneficial for riding long distances and/or at higher speeds.

However, drop bars are designed for road bikes and may not be suitable for all types of mountain biking. It’s important to consider the type of riding you’ll be doing and whether drop bars are appropriate for your needs before making the conversion.

If you decide to proceed with the conversion, make sure to choose the right components, take your time, and test ride your bike to ensure that everything is working properly.