OS Handlebars?

Question

What's an "OS" handlebar. There seems to be a variety of handlebars available in the market. Whether high risers, low riser ones, tappered aluminium and what have you, I understand all the definitions, but what does "OS" mean? What does it stand for?

Answer 1

Over Sized. The bar has a larger diameter in the center where it is held by the stem. This provides extra rigidity and strength. You need a stem to match the bar. The rest of the bar is standard diameter so all levers and shifters still fit.

Answer 2

Like the last answer said, over sized. Most newer bikes have OS handlebars. The companies that don't have them will began using them soon. It's the new thing.

Answer 3

Yes....over sized. Usually it's a 31.8 clamp. The normal clamp size 26.0. Over sized is stiffer. Great for road bikes.