You may ask: why are there horns on the steering wheel, in addition to the mass of beautiful cables, shifters, and brake levers? Then, for starters, this is just cool! The steering wheel acquires an “aggressive”, brutal extension from a completely different angle. Adults remember “Tourist” bicycles, which were a desirable acquisition for every enthusiast. In addition to shifting gears, this road bike had a special handlebar that curved forward and then curved downward, called a ram's horn. This, however, was a special shape of the handlebars, which contributed to a more “racing” riding position for the cyclist and reduced wind resistance. Thus, this shape of the steering wheel was needed not only for beauty.
Not every bicycle needs horns: for example, if the main load is distributed on the saddle, the back is held vertically, then horns are simply not needed, since the torso is not tilted forward and a large load is not distributed on the arms. An example is the following bicycle model.
It's a completely different matter for a mountain bike:
On a bike like this, the distribution of weight is shifted towards the hands, so bike horns are very desirable.
Why does a bicycle need horns?
- Horns allow you to change your grip during a long ride. Constant tonic contraction of the flexor muscles of the forearm and hand in one position causes blood stagnation, constant stress on the same joints leads to painful sensations, and the same static posture can lead to pain and stiffness in the back. Since the horns are located in a different plane, they significantly relieve the load on the hands and temporarily make the life of a cyclist easier.
- Cycling bars act as a steering wheel stop and prevent your hands from slipping, especially in wet weather without gloves.
- They perform a protective function for steering equipment in the event that you place the bike upside down.
- If the bike (hopefully without a cyclist) somersaults forward and lands exactly on its butt, on hard ground, they save all the steering equipment.
- While moving, you can hang something on the horn, for example, a flashlight or a bag of bread, if you are too lazy to put on a backpack.
- If you are exhausted and are rolling your bike up a steep hill, then holding on to the horns is much more convenient and easier; in addition, it is simply convenient to hold the bike by the “horns” when crossing a mountain river, for example, on a hike.
- You can insert it onto the horn, and in the model shown below it is installed like a folding knife.
- If it rains on the road, you can very conveniently attach the corners of a bicycle raincoat to bicycle horns.
- The most important quality of the horns is that they allow you to stand on the pedals and, holding them, climb steep hills. In this case, additional muscles are activated, such as the biceps and abdominal muscles.
- Finally, if the steering wheel has old, worn out soft rubber grips that constantly “slip”, then installing horns along the edges of the steering wheel solves this issue.
What are the disadvantages of horns?
- If you decide to install bicycle horns, you should remember that there will be less space on the handlebars. There are two ways out of this: either move the shifters and brake levers to the center of the steering wheel (if the horns are attached to the edge of the steering wheel), or install the horns inside the steering wheel. This option is more dangerous, since the closer to the center of the steering wheel your hands are, the greater the effort required to turn, and, consequently, the longer the time.
- When installing horns, the time it takes to pack the bike into the case and take it out of the case increases, especially if the case is “butt-butt”.
- If you hit a passerby with a horned steering wheel, you can cause him more serious injury than with a simple steering wheel.
- If the bicycle horns have too much reach, then in narrow spaces (for example, on a bridge or a narrow forest path) they can suddenly catch on the handlebars, and, even worse, sharply turn it at a right angle at speed. In this case, falling over your head is inevitable.
- In addition, if the horns land on the cyclist after a fall, followed by the bike itself, they can cause serious injuries, such as broken ribs.
- It is important that driving with one hand holding the horn and the other showing the direction of the turn is much more difficult than driving with just one hand on the steering wheel. This is because in the first case we control a small area of the steering wheel, and there is a much greater risk of incorrect movement.
- If you are passing through a risky section with the possibility of emergency braking, or if you are descending at high speed, you should always remove your hands from the horns and keep them on the brake handles, otherwise you can lose precious time.
How to choose the right horns
Horns are divided according to length into short, medium and long. The materials are metal (aluminium), carbon fiber (carbon) and plastic. There are also differences in the type of fastening. Below are shown as an example a long aluminum horn (150 mm) and short plastic horns along with grips.
It is best to choose long devices. They don't allow your hands to slip, there are several grip options, and they protect your hands well from lashing branches.
If you are thinking about how to choose a material, then the best compromise between price, quality and weight is aluminum. At the same time, aluminum horns can be of any color, both with a metallic sheen and matte. Plastic horns are the most unreliable, as plastic is fragile.
How to install horns
Horns are most often installed on the handlebars of a bicycle using clamps. You need to be especially careful if you have a carbon steering wheel. To prevent it from cracking, look for reinforced seats on it.
One of important points is to determine the installation location. You need to decide whether you will leave the steering mechanics in place or move it inward.
If the horns are attached to clamps, carefully study the nature of the connection: the clamping bolt should be tangential to the circle at the tightening point in order to prevent unequal application of force and the occurrence of a breaking moment.
In conclusion, it is worth recalling the inclination of the horns. Choose the angle that is comfortable for you. You can experiment with any location you like, but it is better to start with an angle of 45° with the plane of the ground.
Bicycle handlebar horns - luxury or necessity? This accessory is truly the most functional. Why? It's simple: it allows you to change the position of your hands on the steering wheel during long trips, preventing numbness in your wrists, hands and back.
Horns on a bicycle handlebar - classification
This multifunctional accessory, which, according to experienced cyclists, is a great help in overcoming new spaces, can be classified according to the material used in the manufacture of the horns:
- aluminum samples - light, reliable and inexpensive;
- plastic – not the most practical option;
- Carbon fiber is an accessory that can hardly be called budget, but its reliability and functionality remain in question.
Bicycle horns can also be classified according to the size of the product.
Modern manufacturers of bicycle accessories are now ready to offer fans cycling the following types of devices making the operation process vehicle as comfortable as possible:
- Long horns provide a huge number of variations in the handlebar grip, however, if you have little cycling experience, at first it will be quite problematic for you to cope with driving a two-wheeled vehicle.
- Medium horns are a universal option; even an inexperienced cyclist can get used to them quite easily.
- Short horns - the accessory is convenient to use, but if you prefer aggressive riding, you should not choose this option, since your hands may fall off it during jumps over rough, uneven terrain.
According to seasoned cyclists, bicycle horns not only improve appearance bicycle, but also help to increase the level of comfort while riding, providing a comfortable grip. However, in order for this accessory to fully cope with its functional responsibilities, you need to select and install it correctly.
Please note: it is not recommended to install horns on bicycles for extreme riding, since their presence increases the risk of injury!
How to choose horns for a bicycle handlebar?
There are no specific rules for choosing this accessory. When choosing such elements for yourself, you need to build on your feelings. You just need to analyze which model will be more comfortable for you to ride, also taking into account your height, weight and the type of riding you prefer.
How to install horns on a bicycle handlebar?
The diameter of the fastening of these accessories, regardless of which manufacturer you choose, coincides with the diameter of the steering wheel. To install the horns, you just need to install them in a position convenient for yourself and tighten the bolts of the special clamps until they stop. Before installing the horns on a bicycle, you must first remove the grips from the handlebars; after installing the accessory, you must return them to their original position. If necessary, if there is not enough space on the steering wheel to install the horns, you can move the brake lever slightly.
If you have any difficulties installing the horns on your bicycle handlebars, we recommend that you watch the detailed video instructions:
Steering wheel horns can be very different, so you need to choose them very carefully. They vary in length and shape, material and size. There are stronger options - made of steel or aluminum, there are lighter ones - made of plastic, shortened and curved or long - your eyes run wide from the assortment.
The final decision should be based not only on your preferences, but also on the purposes for which you intend to install the accessory on your bicycle. It’s not enough to choose them correctly, because you need to know the installation rules, study all the pros and cons of having this attribute, only then can you purchase this accessory.
Advantages and disadvantages
Before purchasing such an accessory, it is important to understand why you need them. If you are not new to cycling, then you already know that horns will serve you well.
Here are just a few reasons why purchasing antlers should happen:
- Ability to change grip while riding. This allows you to rest your hands and fingers if the trip is long. In addition, the accessory will prevent your hand from slipping off the steering wheel;
- Protect your hands and the bike itself from external factors. If the bike falls, the horns will prevent a lot of trouble, and while riding they will take any blow from the side, covering your hands;
- Holding the horns on the handlebars makes it easier to roll the bike when you're not on it;
- They also act as an impromptu hook for small items;
- Horns look beautiful, so their presence is preferable from an aesthetic point of view.
Of course, all these advantages can turn into disadvantages. For example, when dropped, the handles can hit a person passing by; while driving, they often catch something along the way, and the steering wheel itself becomes a little smaller in size. But these shortcomings are not so serious as to refuse such an accessory.
How to choose and install correctly
Before purchasing horns, look at the diameter of your bike's handlebars. The accessory must fit perfectly, and to achieve this, it is better to try on the horns before purchasing.
They are installed by bolting them to the handlebars of the bicycle, and everything depends on how tightly they are secured. The material from which the horns are made and the material of the steering wheel play a huge role in installation. You need to screw it very carefully so as not to damage one or the other.
Plastic devices are tightened tightly, but without pressure, so that the plastic does not crack from stress. Steel or aluminum ones will withstand any pressure, but then the steering wheel itself will be in danger. The most correct way out of the situation is to act strictly according to the instructions, and only then, when you evaluate driving with horns, you can adjust their position to suit you.
By changing the angle of the horns on the handlebars, you are essentially changing the riding position on the bike. By turning them outward or inward, you can get a position close to various types bicycles. Length also matters.
Safety
Operating a bicycle constantly requires special attention, and if you decide to use additional accessories, your vigilance should increase several times.
The horns on the handlebars increase the size of the bike and you may now have difficulty in tight spots and green areas. The horns easily catch on branches, and in the city the situation is even more serious, since there is a danger of hitting cars, pedestrians and poles. Of course, over time you will get used to them, and the comfort that this device gives will cover all the accompanying disadvantages.
Steering wheel horns are a pretty convenient device. In stock, horns can only be seen on NON-mountain bikes, the so-called Auchan bikes. Normal mountain bikes do not come with horns. And if they are not included, are horns needed at all for a mountain bike? And if necessary, which ones and how to install them on the steering wheel? This is what we will look into now.
The main purpose of handlebar horns is to reduce the stress on your wrists, which tend to become numb when riding a mountain bike for long periods of time. Which, by the way, is also possible if your hands on the steering wheel are turned 90 degrees in the normal position. When skating for a long time, your hands begin to go numb. Horns allow you to hold the steering wheel in a comfortable and physiologically more correct position. If you rarely ride a mountain bike for long periods of time, you probably won't need horns. To decide whether your bike needs horns, let's look at their advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages and disadvantages of horns
Advantages:
- as already written above, an additional comfortable grip on the steering wheel (and with large horns, even several grips)
- protection of hands from blows from branches
- In case of a fall, the horns provide additional protection for equipment mounted on the handlebars
- your hand will not “slip” from the steering wheel;)
- when walking, it is more convenient to lead the bicycle by the horns
- you can hang a lot of things on the horn (a helmet in a parking lot, a bag that won’t slip off the steering wheel while driving, etc.)
Flaws:
- less space on the steering wheel
- the bike becomes less compact
- if you crash into a pedestrian, he will “get” more than with a “naked” steering wheel
- the horn can catch on something massive and a fall is guaranteed
- you can be seriously injured if you fall, especially if the horns are too high (see below for how to properly install the horns on the steering wheel)
What types of horns are there and how to choose them
When choosing horns, first of all you need to pay attention to how the clamping clamp is designed. There are “right” and “wrong” clamps. The “correct” clamp has a strictly radial slot, and the clamping bolt is perpendicular to it. For the “wrong” one, it’s the other way around (see picture). In addition, the hole in the clamp may be oval and have sharp edges that disfigure the steering wheel.
Horns are small, medium and large. Small horns are light, graceful and beautiful, but may not provide enough support for the hand (it’s better not to hold on to them on a crossroads - you may not be able to hold the steering wheel). The medium ones are enough for the whole hand - this is a universal option. Large ones (often also have curved ends) provide maximum protection from branches and add not one, but several hand grips. The best option for bicycle trips. But this is also the heaviest type of horn.
Horns can be made from aluminum alloy, carbon or plastic. Aluminum horns for mountain bike handlebars are a reliable and inexpensive option. 
Carbon horns are as light and durable as possible, but are significantly more expensive. You can, of course, find an inexpensive Chinese option, but both of these advantages may be debatable. Plastic horns are decorative :) Aluminum ones can have a grip-type coating, which will come in handy in winter. Ergonomic ones with small “horns” are also available for sale.
How to install horns on a mountain bike handlebar.
To attach the horns to the steering wheel, you either need to move the grips and switches closer to the center of the steering wheel to make room for attaching the horns, or trim the grips a little. If your MTB has grips with clamping clamps, you can remove the outer clamps and install horns instead. The main thing is that the horns fit tightly and hold onto the steering wheel with the entire plane of the mounting clamp. There are also horns installed in the steering wheel. The weight of these leaves much to be desired.
It is also important to install the horns on the mountain bike handlebars in the correct position. Most sources recommend installing them at a 45 degree angle. In fact, it is more convenient to make the angle much sharper, i.e. install the horns almost horizontally, leaving a very slight rise, approximately like that. It wouldn’t hurt to try different angles(from 20 to 45 degrees) and decide which is more convenient for you. Do not make an angle greater than 45° - you can get seriously injured if you fall.
It is not recommended to install horns on For horns are absolutely contraindicated! Previously, they were generally installed only on straight handlebars. In theory, the horns should be positioned shoulder-width apart, but everyone screws them on as they see fit. It is generally accepted to place them at the edges of the steering wheel. But someone is putting horns between the casts and the gear shifters. At the same time, it becomes inconvenient to switch speeds. Some people put it even closer to the center. To reduce air flow resistance as much as possible when driving, for example, on a highway, by moving your hands together. The latter might be better off purchasing road bike, not mountain)
Separately, it is worth mentioning the installation of horns on carbon handlebars. Firstly, Carbon handlebars CANNOT be trimmed. Secondly, not every carbon handlebar can accommodate horns. Under them, there should be special reinforced seats on the steering wheel (thickened tube). If this is not the case, the steering wheel will simply crack under the horn clamp and become unusable. 
Thirdly, the horns themselves must be suitable for installation on a carbon handlebar. (see picture) Horns with fastenings in half will not work, there must be a full clamp, a large contact area and no sharp ribs. And even in this case, carefully tighten the bolts so as not to overtighten.
What the creators of bicycle accessories will not come up with in order to stuff our smaller two-wheeled brothers as much as possible and at the same time enrich themselves by instilling in everyone the importance and necessity of these trinkets! This time the horns are subject to inspection - an accessory designed to make the life of a cyclist easier. Is it so? Let's try to figure it out.
What's the secret?
Horns are special additional handles installed on the steering wheel mountain bikes or hybrids. Their main function is to change the configuration of the bicycle handlebar and thereby relieve the cyclist from numbness in the fingers and fatigue of the hands, as well as expand the possibilities of gripping the handlebars. Horns have a number of advantages that are worth paying attention to.
Initially, horns were intended only for straight handlebars, but over time they began to enjoy success among owners of other models, for example, risers (handlebars with a bend in the center). Most often, horns are installed at the ends of the steering wheel. The grips, if necessary, move closer to the center along with the switches. Some bikers cut off the edges of the grips in order to place the horns on the bike's handlebars without moving the rest of the elements.
Manufacturers did not consider it necessary to include horns in the basic equipment of the bicycle. And to pamper yourself with such a toy, you need to spend from 100 to 900 hryvnia. Moreover, the cost of bicycle horns directly depends on their material, weight and design.
Bicycle handlebar horns in action
A cyclist's comfort when using handlebar horns depends on their design.
Horns can be straight, short, medium-length, long, curved, or ergonomic.
To protect hands from injuries caused by branches in wooded areas or cars whose drivers sometimes allow themselves to drive too close to the cyclist, long horns curved inward are used. In addition to all of the above, long curved horns eliminate the possibility of hands slipping.
Horns are made of aluminum, carbon or plastic. It should be noted right away that those horns that clearly have sharp edges and corners protruding are uncomfortable, and you can also feel rough welds in your hand. Your hands will only suffer from such an accessory. Chafing guaranteed!
Ergonomic horns are attracting more and more attention. Their surface is rubberized, which does not allow the hand to slip. They protrude both forward and backward from the steering wheel, allowing you to rest on protruding points.
Installation
The placement of horns on the handlebars of a bicycle is not regulated by any rules. An individual approach works here. You need to put it in a way that is convenient. But if you are installing the horns for the first time, then the optimal position will be 45 degrees from the ground. If you want to change the position of your hands, you should turn the horns up or down.
Pros and cons
To the benefits bicycle horns can be attributed:
- the possibility of additional girth of the steering wheel, which reduces fatigue during long driving;
- protection of hands from impacts;
- ensuring better landing when lifting;
- protection of equipment installed on the steering wheel in case of a fall;
- preventing your hand from slipping off the steering wheel during rain.
The disadvantages are:
- additional weight of horns;
- possible damage to the steering wheel due to incompatibility;
- cramped space on the steering wheel;
- high price for quality horns;
- the likelihood of getting hurt increases;
- Difficulty transferring from the horns to the brakes.
P.S. Video dessert. Have you ever played computer game"Horns and hooves?". And I didn't play. But a cow riding a bicycle is still enough.
