Explained – when to go down on to the aerobars
You’ll need hands on the hoods for tricky descents, but the majority of your bike time should be down on the aerobars – and don't forget to practice, says Mat Brett
Are you struggling to work out the best way to use your aerobars for maximum effect? Former 220 editor Mat Brett is here to help…
Your default option should be to get down on the aerobars. Use them unless there’s a compelling reason not to.
The vast majority of the drag working against you on the bike – 70 or even 80% in some cases – comes from you rather than from the bike, so getting into an efficient riding position is vital.
Using aerobars might save you a couple of minutes during the bike leg of a standard-distance triathlon (it’ll vary according to a whole load of different factors), so you’ll want to use them as much as possible.
The fact is, though, that you can’t be on the aerobars 100% of the time. You need to move your hands for braking, for example, and if you have clip-on aerobars you’ll be moving your hands when you want to change gear too.
At other times you’ll want to move your hands to the handlebars for more control. The temptation is to come off your aerobars for every bend and slight descent, but it’s not always necessary. Yes, if safety is an issue then you need to get your hands back on the hoods and covering the brakes, but you can take some bends and descents while still on the extensions.
Only you can make that judgement, but practising in training will give you the confidence you need to stay down on the aerobars in a wider set of situations. Gradually push outside your comfort zone by repeatedly riding a tricky section of road while on the aerobars and you’ll be surprised at what you can manage.
The same is true of windy conditions. Sometimes you’ll feel more stable in a crosswind or in blustery weather with your hands on the handlebars but, again, using your aerobars in training will help develop your skills. Don’t just clip your aerobars on for racing and hope for the best.
When it comes to climbing, there’s less of an aero gain when you’re down on the extensions, but it all counts. By all means get out of the saddle occasionally if you need to on the really steep stuff, but always be looking to get back into your aero position as soon as conditions allow you to.
For lots more performance advice head to our Training section
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Jamie Beach
Former digital editor 
