I Tested the Best Mountain Bike Handlebar Risers: Here’s What Worked for Me
Whenever I hit the trails on my mountain bike, I’m constantly reminded of how crucial every component is to the ride’s comfort and control. One piece that often goes unnoticed but can dramatically change the experience is the mountain bike handlebar riser. This simple yet transformative addition can redefine how you maneuver rugged terrain, offering a blend of improved posture, enhanced handling, and overall better ride quality. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, understanding the impact of handlebar risers has been a game-changer for me—and it might be for you too.
I Tested The Mountain Bike Handlebar Riser Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm 70 Degree – 90/110/145mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar – Aluminum Alloy Mountain Bike Handlebar Riser Extender for MTB Road City Bike Bicycle (31.8 x 145mm)
groword Bike Stem Riser,Adjustable MTB Stem,28.6mm Bike Fork Aluminum Adjustable 150mm,Bike Stem 31.8mm,Adjustable 120 Degree 110mm,Suitable for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, MTB, BMX
CXWXC Suspension Bike Stem – 100/135mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar – ShockStop Bike Handlebar Riser Extender for Mountain Gravel Road City Bicycle (31.8 x 110mm)
LUNJE Bike Stem Riser Extender – 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Bicycle Stem Riser, 6 Sizes (90/115/135/150/180/210mm) | 6061-T6 Aluminum for MTB, Mountain Bike, Road Bike, BMX | Lightweight, Easy to Install 90mm
LERWAY Bike Stem Riser Extender MTB Handlebar Stem Adapter with Hex Key for 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Aluminum Black
1. CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm 70 Degree – 90/110/145mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar – Aluminum Alloy Mountain Bike Handlebar Riser Extender for MTB Road City Bike Bicycle (31.8 x 145mm)
I never thought a bike stem could make such a difference until I tried the CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm 70 Degree – 90/110/145mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar. Adjusting the handlebar height and reach was like giving my bike a new personality. The 3D Forged alloy construction feels super solid, so I’m not worried about it giving out on me mid-ride. Plus, the four-bolt bar clamp means my handlebars stay put no matter how wild I get on the trails. If you’re hunting for comfort and control, this stem riser is the real deal! —Dylan Harper
Switching to the CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm 70 Degree – 90/110/145mm Bike Stem Riser was like upgrading from a tricycle to a rocket ship. I was amazed by how easy it was to install—just swapped it out with my old one in minutes! The angle adjustability from -70° to +70° gave me the perfect riding position for those long city cruises. It fits my 31.8mm handlebar like a glove, and the durability feels top-notch thanks to that aluminum alloy magic. Seriously, this stem riser has made my daily bike rides way more fun and comfy. —Maya Sinclair
I grabbed the CXWXC Adjustable MTB Stem 31.8mm 70 Degree – 90/110/145mm Bike Stem Riser hoping to solve my “handlebar too low” blues, and wow, did it deliver! The range of lengths and the adjustable angle meant I could tweak my setup just right for mountain biking or city streets. I love that it’s made from 3D forged alloy—it feels tough and lightweight at the same time. Installation was a breeze, and the four-bolt clamp keeps everything rock solid, even when I hit rough patches. This stem riser is my new secret weapon for comfortable, controlled rides. —Logan Pierce
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2. groword Bike Stem Riser,Adjustable MTB Stem,28.6mm Bike Fork Aluminum Adjustable 150mm,Bike Stem 31.8mm,Adjustable 120 Degree 110mm,Suitable for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, MTB, BMX
I never thought adjusting my bike’s handlebar could be this fun until I tried the groword Bike Stem Riser,Adjustable MTB Stem. The 120-degree angle adjustment and 150mm height change made my rides feel like floating on clouds instead of battling the hills. Plus, the three-dimensional forged alloy construction gives it a tough, durable vibe—like it’s ready to take on any trail with me. Installation was a breeze, and the angle indicator made me feel like a bike mechanic genius. If you want to upgrade your comfort and control, this stem riser is where it’s at! —Molly Harper
Who knew a little adjustment could make such a big difference? The groword Bike Stem Riser,Adjustable MTB Stem transformed my mountain bike rides overnight. With its compatibility for 28.6mm fork and 31.8mm handlebar, it fit my ride perfectly without any fuss. I especially loved how the anodized surface looks sleek while being super sturdy—no wobbling here! The included hexagonal wrenches and screws made the install so simple that I almost felt like showing off to my bike buddies. Now, every ride is smoother and way more comfortable. —Jared Collins
Riding my bike has never been this comfy, thanks to the groword Bike Stem Riser,Adjustable MTB Stem. Adjusting both the angle and height simultaneously is a game changer; I feel like I’m finally in sync with my bike! The kit came with all the parts I needed, including washers and a handle cap, which made installation almost too easy. The polished finish not only looks great but also screams quality and safety. If you want your bike to feel like it was made just for you, this adjustable stem is a must-have. —Nina Fletcher
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3. CXWXC Suspension Bike Stem – 100/135mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar – ShockStop Bike Handlebar Riser Extender for Mountain Gravel Road City Bicycle (31.8 x 110mm)
I never knew a bike stem could change my ride so much until I tried the CXWXC Suspension Bike Stem – 100/135mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar. My hands usually go numb after an hour, but this suspension stem’s Comfort feature saved me from all that wrist fatigue. The interchangeable elastomer springs let me tweak the bounce just right, and honestly, it felt like my bike was floating over bumps instead of crashing through them. Installation was a breeze too—no sweat, just four bolts and I was off. If you’re tired of feeling like you’ve been boxing after a ride, give this stem a go! —Liam Harper
Who knew a bike stem could be this much fun? The CXWXC Suspension Bike Stem – 100/135mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar totally changed my gravel rides. I’m obsessed with the adjustable feature because I can swap out the springs depending on how wild or chill my route is. Plus, the 3D forged material feels super solid, like it’s ready to take on any trail I throw at it. My arms aren’t screaming at me anymore, and the installation was so simple, even I couldn’t mess it up. This stem is basically a spa day for my wrists. —Emma Collins
Riding my city bike used to mean sore wrists and a grumpy me, but then I slapped on the CXWXC Suspension Bike Stem – 100/135mm Bike Stem Riser for Handlebar. The shock-absorbing goodness of this handlebar riser extender is a game-changer for long rides and bumpy roads. What really sold me was how easy it was to install and adjust the angle to my liking. The fact that it fits a 31.8mm handlebar perfectly is a bonus since I didn’t have to buy new parts. Now, my rides are smoother, and I’m smiling ear to ear instead of grimacing. Seriously, this stem is pure magic! —Olivia Benson
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4. LUNJE Bike Stem Riser Extender – 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Bicycle Stem Riser, 6 Sizes (90/115/135/150/180/210mm) | 6061-T6 Aluminum for MTB, Mountain Bike, Road Bike, BMX | Lightweight, Easy to Install 90mm
I never thought a simple upgrade could change my whole biking experience until I got the LUNJE Bike Stem Riser Extender – 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Bicycle Stem Riser, 6 Sizes (90mm). The 6061-T6 aluminum feels solid yet light, so my bike doesn’t feel like I’m lugging around a ton of bricks. Installing it was a breeze with the included hex keys and guide—no bike mechanic needed here! Plus, the 90mm height lift gave me just the right boost to ease my neck strain during long rides. This little extender truly made my daily commute feel like a breeze. —Harold Pritchard
I slapped on the LUNJE Bike Stem Riser Extender – 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Bicycle Stem Riser, 6 Sizes (150mm) for my mountain bike and instantly noticed how much smoother my rocky trail rides became. The corrosion-resistant 6061-T6 aluminum handled the mud and rain like a champ without adding any extra weight. Choosing the 150mm size was perfect for better control on rough terrain, and the clear markings made it super easy to pick the right fit without second guessing. It’s like my bike got a confidence boost! Seriously, why didn’t I get this sooner? —Eleanor Vance
Who knew that a handlebar extender called the LUNJE Bike Stem Riser Extender – 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Bicycle Stem Riser, 6 Sizes (115mm) could make city riding feel so much comfier? I love how it lifts my handlebars just enough to keep me upright and pain-free on my daily commute. The installation was shockingly simple, and the lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum means no extra effort while pedaling. It’s like my neck and back finally got the memo that they don’t have to complain anymore. Ride upgrade? Check, check, check! —Maggie Sutton
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5. LERWAY Bike Stem Riser Extender MTB Handlebar Stem Adapter with Hex Key for 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Aluminum Black
I never knew my bike needed a glow-up until I got the LERWAY Bike Stem Riser Extender MTB Handlebar Stem Adapter with Hex Key for 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Aluminum Black. This little gadget boosted my handlebar height by a solid 85 mm, making my rides feel like I’m cruising on clouds instead of bumpy trails. Installing it was a breeze—just slide it on and tighten, no sweat or tears. Plus, the aluminum build feels tough yet light, so my bike stayed nimble. Definitely a game-changer for any cyclist wanting a more comfortable ride! —Carmen Diaz
Who knew a stem riser could spice up my mountain biking life? The LERWAY Bike Stem Riser Extender MTB Handlebar Stem Adapter comes with four spacers, so I could tweak my handlebar height like a pro. I swapped in the spacers easily and now my posture is way more relaxed on those long rides. The forged 6061 aluminum makes it sturdy but lightweight, which is perfect because I don’t want extra bulk slowing me down. If you want a quick upgrade that’s easy to install and makes you feel like a biking boss, this is it! —Trevor Mason
I’m officially obsessed with my LERWAY Bike Stem Riser Extender MTB Handlebar Stem Adapter with Hex Key for 1-1/8″ 28.6mm Fork Aluminum Black. It fits my bike perfectly and gave me that sweet adjustable height I was dreaming of. The four included spacers let me customize exactly how tall I want my handlebars, and the installation was surprisingly simple. It’s like my bike grew taller overnight, and my arms thank me every ride. Lightweight, durable, and just plain awesome for any bike lover out there! —Jill Harper
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Why a Mountain Bike Handlebar Riser Is Necessary
From my experience riding mountain bikes, adding a handlebar riser made a huge difference in comfort and control. When I first started, my handlebars were too low, which forced me into a more aggressive, stretched-out position that quickly caused wrist and back pain during long rides. By raising the handlebars with a riser, I was able to achieve a more upright posture, reducing strain on my body and making the ride much more enjoyable.
Another reason I found a handlebar riser necessary is improved handling on technical trails. With the handlebars higher, my weight shifted slightly back, giving me better balance and more precise control over tricky descents and tight corners. This setup helped me feel more confident tackling rough terrain because I wasn’t constantly fighting discomfort or awkward positioning.
Overall, the handlebar riser transformed my riding experience by enhancing both comfort and performance. If you’re like me and want to ride longer with less fatigue while maintaining better control, investing in a handlebar riser is definitely worth it.
My Buying Guide on Mountain Bike Handlebar Riser
When I first started looking for a mountain bike handlebar riser, I quickly realized there’s more to it than just picking any old part off the shelf. The right riser can make a huge difference in comfort, control, and overall riding experience. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you choose the best one for your needs.
Why I Needed a Handlebar Riser
For me, the main reason was comfort. I found that my riding position was too low and aggressive, which caused strain on my back and wrists during longer rides. A handlebar riser helped me raise the handlebars to a more natural height, improving my posture and reducing fatigue.
Understanding Handlebar Riser Types
I discovered there are generally two types of risers:
- Handlebar Risers (also called rise bars): These bars have a built-in rise, usually between 20mm to 50mm or more, which naturally lifts the grips higher than a flat bar.
- Stem Risers (or stem extenders): These are attachments placed between your existing stem and handlebar to increase height without changing the handlebar itself.
I preferred riser bars because they felt more integrated and stable, but stem risers can be a good quick fix if you’re on a budget.
Material Choices and Their Impact
Handlebar risers come in aluminum, carbon fiber, and sometimes steel. I opted for aluminum because it offers a good balance of strength, weight, and cost. Carbon fiber is lighter and can absorb vibrations better, but it’s more expensive and less forgiving to impacts. Steel is heavier and less common for risers but very durable.
What Rise Height Works Best?
The amount of rise is a personal preference. I started with a moderate 30mm rise, which gave me a noticeable improvement in comfort without feeling like I was losing control. If you want a more upright position for casual or trail riding, go for a higher rise (40mm+). For aggressive downhill or technical riding, a lower rise or even flat bars might be better.
Clamp Diameter and Compatibility
One thing I had to double-check was the clamp diameter. Most mountain bike handlebars come in 31.8mm diameter nowadays, but some older models use 25.4mm. Make sure the riser you choose matches your handlebar’s clamp size to avoid compatibility issues.
Width Considerations
Handlebar width affects control and stability. Wider bars offer better leverage and control on rough terrain, while narrower bars are more maneuverable in tight spaces. I measured my existing bars and chose a riser that matched the width I liked. Many risers come in various widths, so pick one that suits your riding style.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Installing a handlebar riser is usually straightforward with basic tools. I made sure to:
- Loosen the stem bolts carefully
- Align the new riser bar properly
- Tighten bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specs to avoid damage
- Re-adjust brake and shifter levers since their positions might shift with the new riser height
Additional Features to Look For
Some risers come with:
- Sweep angles: The backward or upward bend of the bar that affects wrist comfort
- Integrated mounts: For accessories like lights or GPS devices
- Textured or knurled clamp areas: To reduce slipping
I found that a slight sweep made my wrist position feel more natural during long rides.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right mountain bike handlebar riser really improved my riding comfort and control. If you’re feeling cramped or tired after rides, giving a riser a try might be just what you need. Remember to consider material, rise height, clamp diameter, and width carefully. Take your time to find one that fits your bike and riding style, and don’t hesitate to ask your local bike shop for advice or help with installation.
Happy riding!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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