B2mac

I just bought a used Trek FX 7.5. It has the original handlebars and the previous owner added bar ends. I had never used bar ends before so I have nothing to compare to, but these seem too wide for me. My shoulder width measured 17.75" with my back against the wall. The bar ends measured 24.5" from center to center. I am about 5"10, 150 lbs. The handlebars themselves are about the same width as my Gary Fisher bike, which I thought was perfect. I've always heard that handlebar width should be based on shoulder width. If that's the case, do I need to shorten my bars? I might be able to get an inch off of each end but that's about all. Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

JonathanGennick 

I've heard the same thing about shoulder width, but my approach is to ignore the "rules" and go with whatever feels right on the bike. I believe the advice about shoulder-width bars comes from road racing and aerodynamics. Don't sweat it if you're just out having fun on the bike. Ride what feels right. Don't cut those bars unless somehow the width is bothering you.

Sunset_Va

Try this approach: Buy another set of bars, and cut them to the width you think will work. Save your original bars, so if it doesnt work.

B2mac

Thanks for the advice. I will give my body some time to adjust to the wider bars before I do any cutting.

fietsbob

I have 21.5" wide Ergon GR3 bar-end /grips when I put them on my Brompton M bars ..