Flared Handlebars?

[Razors Edge ★]

What's the benefit or reason for using flared handlebars as opposed to traditional handlebars - especially on gravel bikes? I saw them for years on touring rigs, but they seem to be coming to the gravel bikes as well.

Tom

[donkpow]

Fixies have used them, as well.

[Razors Edge ★]

36 minutes ago, donkpow said:

Fixies have used them, as well.

I'd say every type has used them. I just don't know why. Are they more comfortable or ergonomic? I imagine standard bars are more about narrow and form follows function (speed), but the flared may be a reaction to improving comfort over slower but longer rides. Likewise, the might be a little longer due to the flare, so might provide some extra dampening of vibration?

Tom

[donkpow]

It would be my guess that you could raise the bars slightly higher than your standard roadie bars. Sit up on top but get the some advantage from the drops. Top tube length may also be a reason to give you access to the flared drops. Just guessing, though.

[dinneR ★]

I use the Salsa woodchipper on both of my drop bar bikes. The drops are shallower. The bar does have some flex which is nice on bumpy roads like gravel. The geometry of both bikes is such that the drops are a comfortable position. 

Salsa also makes the cowbell with a small amount of flair and the cowchipper that falls in the middle of the others.