Can I replace the handlebars on my hybrid bike with road bars?

Question

Can I replace the handlebars on my hybrid bike with road bars?

Answer 1

Well, sure you can!  But...it'll cost ya.

You should ask your LBS about the cost and feasibility of this.  Unless your hybrid is high-end, you may be dismayed at the cost.  STI, as commonly used on today's road bikes, is quite costly.  The STI brake levers may not be compatible with your brakes...or derailleurs.  That would mean more parts needed.  Bar-end shifters would be an alternative, but you may not be comfortable shifting from that position...AND they wouldn't be a whole lot cheaper in the end (you'd still need brake levers, too).  Any route you take with a drop bar, your current shifters and brake levers will be useless.  You may also need a new stem (if threadless) to get the bars at a comfortable extension.

Are you merely looking for more hand positions?  Have you considered bar-ends (Ergon makes nice products)?  How about a trekking (or butterfly) bar?  You could even research the practicality of moustache or albatross bars.  With any of these options, you could still make use of your current shifters and/or brake levers.

Answer 2

Changing out your handlebars will require changing out your shifters.  This would need to really be done at a professional bike shop unless you are a pretty good bicycle mechanic yourself.  One other option you might consider, though.  There are add on drop bars that can be attached at the ends of your straight bar which will allow you to ride in a lower body position without having to change out your shifters.  This will demand, though, a significantly wider hand positioning when you do use the drop bars.  This is because the drop bars will be significantly wider apart than in a true road drop bar configuration.  

Answer 3

Yes you can!

You can keep the same gear change levers but they will only be operable in the position you place them! They won't have the ability to work from the drops AND the hoods, like an STI lever!  Your brake levers may look a little odd, but with some ingenuity you can find a place to put them and be able to use them without too much strain!

If you convert to an STI lever it will cost you!  - You often have to change the groupset too!

Hope this helps.

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