Aerobars can be a cyclist’s best friend when used correctly. They allow for a fast and smooth ride that match perfectly with a triathlon or time trial. Unfortunately, riders often insist on using aerobars during group rides, despite of the mounds of evidence proving the dangers involved in doing so. While there is no “cycling law” against the use of aerobars during group rides, any cyclist with common sense knows that it is a bad idea. Joining a group ride with aerobars is a scary, dangerous thing to do and some cyclist are too stubborn to change their ways. Sadly, those cyclists who insist on riding in group rides with their aerobars end up learning the lesson the hard way, in a bike crash.
The irony about riders who are adamant about using aerobars on group rides is that the primary use of this equipment is aerodynamics. However, group rides are so beneficial because of the aerodynamics that the riders themselves provide. The two most dangerous aspects of aerobars are:
- Stability is lacking
- Hands are far away from the brakes
When combined, these two aspects create a scary situation for all of those involved in the group ride. Take a look at the two videos below for perfect examples regarding just how dangerous aerobars in group rides can be:
This quick example shows that even a slight error is difficult to correct when riding in a group with aerobars. Next, take a look at this video where the rider crashes going 34 mph. Again, group rides and aerobars do not mix well.
What is your opinion about people in your group rides who choose to use aerobars? Do you feel at risk with them in your cycling crew? Share your opinions below.
I agree that USING aerobars in a group ride is stupid (as shown in the video above). However, I have no problem with people HAVING aerobars on a group ride for the simple reason that when someone is dropped from the group, having the advantage to avoid the wind is invaluable to finish the ride.
I have used Aerobars for many many years, and feel very comfortable and in control of my bike. Would only ride a very short distance without them.
Luckily only the aero bar guy got bonged.
I agree entirely that the aerobars have absolutely no place being used where anyone is ever even close enough to draft. I also totally agree that the guy using them had less of a chance to react to a situation. The only real problem that I have with this vidio clip is that after reviewing it over and over numerous times is that the rider in front of the aero bar guy was totally the cause of this particular accident. Everyone was holding a nice straight line , then suddenly the guy in front of the aero guy decides to jot way over to the left without ever looking . That probably would have taken out anyone on any road bike and was irritating to even watch. You can not just shoot out without looking. The second contributor is that the aero guy was overlapped over half a wheel. This is also something you know to never do. In my opinion, the aerobars made reaction time longer which was the final addition to a lethal concoction, but most of all, you would not ever catch me riding with any of these guys. They all scare the hell out of me.
Our group is a mix of road bikes and TT bikes. The TT guys don’t go aero unless they are on the front, off to the side not in the pace line, or way off the back. The only trouble we have is that they have an advantage to be able to push the pace more when they’re in the front and make it hard for some of us to just keep up. LOL
Im torn. I NEED the bars to keep with riders who are younger and stronger. I can keep up with them. I think however in the middle of the pace line NO WAY. Stay off you need reaction time But when do you need them most? When pulling of course And that is the one time you don’t need quick brakes or at least only in very rare conditions If you are pulling all out you should not be in a place where sudden braking could be required (I guess a stray dog or squirrel is the exception) I can’t keep up at say mid 20’s and do my turn pulling without them. Also my back likes that position (go figure. Its stenossis) So on a long charity ride where I am not in close contact I am more comfortable.