The width of BMX handlebars in the 1980s wasn't standardized like it is today. Variations existed depending on the manufacturer, the rider's preference, and even the specific model of the bike. However, we can paint a picture of the typical range and explore the factors influencing handlebar width during this golden age of BMX.
Generally speaking, most BMX handlebars in the 1980s ranged from 20 to 22 inches wide. This wasn't a strict rule, and you could find bars slightly narrower or wider, but this bracket encompassed the majority of production bikes. Keep in mind that these measurements are typically taken from the outside edge of one handlebar grip to the outside edge of the other.
Why the Variation in BMX Bar Width?
Several factors contributed to the lack of a single standard width for BMX handlebars in the 80s:
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Rider Preference: Unlike today where riders might gravitate towards wider bars for more leverage, 80s riders had different priorities. Some preferred narrower bars for better maneuverability in tight spaces and technical sections of a track. Others chose wider bars for increased stability at higher speeds. The choice was largely personal.
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Manufacturing Techniques: Manufacturing processes in the 80s were less precise than they are now. Slight variations in width were more common due to the manufacturing techniques employed. Each brand had its own processes, leading to variations even within the same model year.
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Bike Design & Geometry: The overall design and geometry of the BMX bikes themselves influenced the preferred handlebar width. A bike with a steeper head tube angle might favor narrower bars, while a more relaxed geometry could accommodate wider bars.
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Freestyle vs. Racing: The handlebar width choice might also have been subtly influenced by the intended use. Freestyle riders, increasingly popular in the late 70s and throughout the 80s, might have experimented more with different bar widths than racers, who often prioritized efficiency and speed.
What About Specific Brands and Models?
Unfortunately, there's no readily available, comprehensive database detailing the exact handlebar width for every BMX bike produced in the 1980s. Finding this information often requires scouring vintage BMX catalogs, forums dedicated to 80s BMX, and contacting collectors.
However, some popular brands like Redline, GT, Haro, and Kuwahara generally fell within the 20-22-inch range, but even within their lines, slight variations could exist.
Were There Ever Wider or Narrower BMX Bars in the 80s?
Yes, while the 20-22-inch range was prevalent, you could find exceptions. Some custom-built bikes or those with aftermarket parts might have featured handlebars outside this typical range. Riders were constantly experimenting and customizing their bikes, so there was flexibility and experimentation beyond mass-produced models.
What's the Average BMX Handlebar Width Today?
Today's BMX bars are generally wider, often ranging from 28 to 30 inches wide. This increased width provides riders with more leverage and stability, especially for the demanding jumps and tricks common in modern BMX.
This shift towards wider handlebars reflects both advancements in manufacturing precision and evolving riding styles and techniques. The 1980s offered a more diverse and less standardized landscape, where the rider's individual needs and preferences played a greater role in determining the optimal handlebar width.
