Scooter Handlebars Buying Guide

Choosing the right handlebars can greatly improve your stunt scooter experience. Whether you're replacing old bars, upgrading, or customising your scooter, handlebars play a crucial role in your riding performance and comfort.

This guide covers everything you need to know, including bar sizes, materials, compatibility, and fitting advice, helping you make the best choice possible.

Why Upgrade Your Scooter Bars?

Upgrading scooter bars can:

  • Improve strength and durability for tricks
  • Reduce overall scooter weight
  • Offer a better fit and more comfort
  • Personalise your scooter's appearance and style
The Apex Bol Steel Standard SCS Stunt Scooter Bars in black, measuring 590mm by 560mm, showcases a sleek T-shaped design crafted from durable 4130 Chromoly Steel. It features the "APEX" branding and a striking logo in white on the vertical bar.

Scooter Bar Sizes and Dimensions

Bar Height

Ideally, your handlebars should be between your hips and belly button when standing on your scooter deck. For beginners or those uncertain about sizing, opt for slightly taller bars, as they're easier to control.

Bar Width

Handlebar width should roughly match your shoulder width plus a couple of centimetres for comfort. Wider bars offer stability, while narrower bars help with spins and tricks.

Diameter: Standard vs Oversized

  • Standard bars: 32mm outer diameter. Suitable for most scooters and lighter setups.
  • Oversized bars: 35mm outer diameter. More robust and ideal for heavier riders or more aggressive riding styles.

Always check compatibility with your compression system.

Scooter Bar Materials: Which is Best?

Choosing the right material depends on your riding style, weight, and budget.

Steel (Chromoly) Bars

Steel bars are durable, affordable, and perfect for heavy street riding.

  • Pros: Extremely strong, affordable, widely available
  • Cons: Heavier, may limit aerial trick performance

Aluminium Bars

Aluminium bars are ideal for riders looking for reduced weight and agility, particularly suited to park riders.

  • Pros: Lightweight, agile, responsive for tricks
  • Cons: Less durable, can bend under heavy impacts

Titanium Scooter Bars

Titanium bars offer the ultimate balance of strength and weight and are popular among professionals.

  • Pros: Excellent strength-to-weight ratio, highly durable, professional-grade performance
  • Cons: More expensive, stiffness can feel unusual for beginners, potential to snap under extreme stress rather than bend
Close-up image of a black, T-shaped Root Industries AIR Titanium Oversized HIC Stunt Scooter Bar with a white logo featuring a stylized letter "R" and the text "Ti". The bar showcases smooth welds and a matte finish, ideal for durable stunt scooter rides.

Material Comparison

Material

Weight

Strength

Cost

Recommended Riders

Steel

Heavy

Very High

Low

Beginners, street riders

Aluminium

Very Light

Moderate

Moderate

Younger riders, park enthusiasts

Titanium

Ultra Light

Very High

High

Advanced riders, professionals

Bar Shapes and Styles

  • T-Bars: Simple and robust, popular among street riders.
  • Y-Bars: Extra reinforcement, ideal for mid-range setups.
  • BMX Bars: Curved design increases strength.
  • Batwing Bars: High-end hybrid bars combining strength and style.

Compression System Compatibility

Different bars suit different compression systems:

  • SCS: Requires bars without a slit
  • HIC: Requires bars with a slit
  • IHC: Requires bars with a slit
  • ICS: Requires bars with slit and internal star nut

Always double-check your scooter's current compression system before buying.

Choosing the Right Scooter Bars

Select handlebars according to your:

  • Age and physical size
  • Skill level
  • Riding style (park, street, mixed)

Fitting and Adjusting Your Scooter Bars

When fitting bars:

  • Check compatibility with your compression system
  • Ensure bar height is comfortable; trim if necessary
  • Align bars with the scooter’s front wheel before tightening clamps
  • Tighten clamps evenly and gradually to secure bars safely

FAQs

Are titanium scooter bars worth the extra cost? Yes, if you're an advanced rider looking for optimal performance and weight reduction.

Can different scooter brands be mixed? Generally, yes, but always check compatibility with your scooter’s compression system.

What bar size is best for kids? Bars reaching between their hips and navel while standing on the scooter deck are ideal.

How do I know if bars will fit my scooter? Check your compression system and ensure bar dimensions match your scooter’s clamp and fork.

Can I cut scooter bars myself? Yes, but use proper tools and safety precautions. If unsure, seek professional assistance.

Are wider bars better? It depends on preference; wider bars offer more stability, narrower bars are better for spins.

What is the strongest scooter bar material? Steel and titanium bars are the strongest. Steel is heavier, while titanium provides superior strength-to-weight performance.

How long do scooter bars typically last? Durability depends on usage and material. Steel bars last longest, while aluminium bars tend to have a shorter lifespan.

Need Help? Get Expert Advice

Not sure which bars to choose? Contact our team directly—we're happy to help you find the perfect set. Browse our wide selection online or reach out for personalised advice.