Building an Expedition Bicycle – Butterfly Handlebars

 As mentioned in the previous blog post, I will be building my own expedition bicycle for my next cycling trip around the world. One of the first components that I wanted to add, was a new handlebar in the form of butterfly handlebars, sometimes known as trekking handlebars.

I managed to find a pair on eBay which described themselves as lightly used, and they cost me £18.50 including postage.

The make is XLC, who, I have to say, I have never heard of. A little internet research indicates that they are a German company that sell bicycle accessories of most descriptions. The model number is AL-O69 which seems to be discontinued.

The handlebars that arrived were taped (averagely) and with bar ends. It also seems to have never been fitted to a bicycle, with none of the scuff marks you would normally associate with fitting.

Verdict – Pleased with my purchase!

I have not fitted them as of yet, because now, I will need to source new brakes and gear shifters which will be my next task. Let's see what else eBay has to offer!