Handlebar position?

[RaytheHammer]

Hi everybody!
I wonder how you guys/gals setup your bars straight up and down, a bit forward , or a bit back. I've read they should be set straight but see pics of bars set differently and it seems that the bike would react differently if the bars were forward/back...
So how do you set them up and why?

[steve]

Most bmx'rs run their bars parallel with the fork, meaning back. Especially dirt jumpers. I'd start from there and see what you think. Whatever you do, do not, I repeat, do NOT put them forward, unless your license was just suspended for DUI or you are 5 years old. Haahahaa.

Seriously though, try running them back a little.

[steve]

Oh wait, are you running a bmx bike or mtb?

[RaytheHammer]

yeah I'm talking about a BMX bike. :)

[hardtail_schmuk]

i run my bars just slightly forward, i personally feel it gives me a bit more leverage. the funny thing is im not five nor has my licence been suspended for DUI, go figure.... (j/k)

[steve]

Yeah, actually I run my mtb bars a little forward too. I was refering to bmx bars. I guess I'm just giddy about my office party tonight. Open bar and my bonus after it's all over!!

[BMXman]

I personally run mine a little back from perpendicular to the floor...I would guess about 80 degrees.....you will have more control if you're not centered to far foward on the bike....take a look at how the pro's ride theirs..that's usually a good indicator.....D

[seth399]

I run mine back abit, but I mostly dirtjump and thats best for that, Id imagine I'll keep them about the same for racing too though

[gravity]

i run mine somewhere between parallel with the fork and vertical. i just like the extra knee clearance and overall leverage.

[RaytheHammer]

:)