Aero/TT
Handlebars
Aero handlebars
Aero handlebars are very similar to standard drop handlebars, but to earn their name they usually have a more aerodynamic profile. This is often in the form of having a flatter, wider top section to the bar, sometimes even shaped to resemble an aerofoil section much like a plane's wing. This shape helps the aero handlebars cut through the air more easily than a standard rounded profile bar to maximise performance. In order to get the most out of these bars, the handlebar tape usually only comes to just past the bend in the bar. Modern aero bars now sometimes feature channels to allow cables and hydraulic hoses to sit in which not only improves the look of the bike, but also maximises its aerodynamics. More commonly, these are carbon handlebars but there are also alloy handlebars available with an aero profile too.
TT Handlebars
TT Handlebars comprise of a base bar, which can be flat or use drop handlebars, and then two forward facing bars with arm rests on either side. These handlebars are designed to put the rider in the most aerodynamic position possible and are almost always made from carbon fibre. The extension bars come in a number of different shapes to be customised to the rider for performance and comfort, and have a specially shaped gear shifter on the end. Modern TT bikes tend to use electronic shifting now, due to the aerodynamic shapes the shifters can be made into and the versatility for positioning the shifters. TT Handlebars can be fitted to normal road bikes, as well as purpose built TT and Triathlon bikes.