Switching flatbar to classic road type

[ls0725]

hello,

i have a road bike with a flatbar handle and wish to switch to the classic road type, could i get an advise on what i am looking at in terms of replacement parts beside the handlebar itself. like the brake cable, gear selector cable to deraillers, etc.

if its too expensive, might drop the idea. thanks.

[DaveM]

It depends a little on how your bike is set up now. You will definately need:
- bars
- brake levers
- new brake cables

You might need:
- shifters & cables
- adapter for brakes (if you have V-brakes)

Some flat bar shifters can mount to the flat part of the drop bars, but not always. The mounting brackets have to be able to be flexed open enough to go around the bends on the bar. Also, they aren't going to be right under your hands if you mount them on top. What works nicer is the combo shifter brake/shifter combos for drop bars, but more cost.

Also, if you have a triple chainring up front, you'd need a shifter that can handle that.

V-brakes use a different amount of cable pull than other brakes. You can use an adapter called a Travel Agent to adapt.

Also make sure the drop bar's clamp area is the same diameter an your stem. Drop bars have a couple different sizes.

Lots of people have done this and it works well. But it can get a little complex depending on your set up.

[DaveM]

Here's an alternative. Look at these bars: http://www.velo-orange.com/milanbar.html

These will take your existing components. If you mount them upside down, they will drop more like an true racing drop bar, but no conversions needed. Maybe a good compromise. I'd give the company a call to verify fit. They have a few different styles of bars that might work for this.

Good luck

[ls0725]

Thank you for response Dave! Yes I have V-brakes and you are correct, it is a complicated. There are a lot of variables to consider and all just have to be right. I would now only consider your alternative upon your reply. Yes it is a possibility indeed. Thanks again for prompt response.