Clip-On Handlebars

Clip-on is a description given to an additional or secondary handlebar that bolts to a primary handlebar. Generally, a clip-on clamps onto a Drop style road racing handlebar. The "Clip" style extends the riders arms and reach out ahead of the primary handlebar giving the rider's upper torso an aerodynamic wedge to increase speed. A portion of the speed increase is also gained from lessened wind resistance as less of the rider sits erect. Use of a clip-on bar has been widely attributed as an important factor, (along with an aerodynamic helmet) in Greg Lemond's July 23 1989 win of the Tour de France when over the 24.5 kilometer final time trial stage, he came from 50 seconds behind, to actually finish 8 seconds ahead of the second place finisher Laurent Fignon.