Everything You Need to Know About 38 mm, 50 mm, 65 mm and 80 mm Rises
High-rise handlebars have become one of the most talked-about cockpit upgrades in modern mountain biking. Riders like Josh Bryceland and Dakota Norton have pushed bar heights higher than ever, proving that a taller front end can completely transform how a bike handles – especially on steep, technical terrain.
Burgtec’s Ride High series sits at the centre of that movement. Originally developed with Bryceland to match his upright, loose riding style, the range has expanded from the original 38 mm rise to include 50 mm, 65 mm and even 80 mm options. Whether you’re chasing comfort, confidence or a more aggressive freeride stance, there’s a Ride High bar to suit your setup.
This guide breaks down what the Burgtec Ride High Bars are all about, who they’re for, and how to choose the right rise for your riding.
What Makes the Burgtec Ride High Bar Special?
The Ride High bar is built around one simple idea: a higher cockpit gives riders more control, comfort and confidence. Burgtec designed the bar with:
- Aluminium alloy construction for durability and crash resistance
- 35 mm clamp for stiffness without harshness
- 800 mm width with cut marks
- 9° backsweep / 5° upsweep for a natural, comfortable hand position
- Signature Bryceland geometry that feels balanced and intuitive
The result is a bar that feels planted on steep descents, relaxed on long rides and confidence-inspiring on technical terrain.
Why Choose a High-Rise Bar?
A higher handlebar changes your riding position in several key ways:
1. More upright posture
Reduces strain on your lower back, shoulders and wrists.
2. More confidence on steep terrain
Shifts weight rearward, reducing the “going over the bars” sensation.
3. Better control for freeride and enduro
Gives more room to move the bike underneath you.
4. Improved fit for tall riders
Stops the cockpit feeling cramped or too low.
5. A simple upgrade with a big impact
No need for new forks or frame changes – just bolt on and ride.
Which Rise Should You Choose?
Burgtec now offers 38 mm, 50 mm, 65 mm and 80 mm rises. Each one suits a different rider and riding style.
38 mm Rise – The All-Rounder
The original Ride High bar. Ideal for riders who want a slightly taller front end without dramatically changing the bike’s handling.
Best for:
- Trail riders
- Average-height riders
- Bikes with mid-to-high stack heights
- Balanced, all-round riding
Why choose it:
A subtle rise that improves comfort without reducing front-wheel weighting too much.
50 mm Rise – The Steep-Terrain Sweet Spot
Developed after Josh Bryceland asked for more height, the 50 mm rise has become a favourite for riders tackling steep, technical terrain.
Best for:
- Enduro riders
- Steep trails
- Bikes with low stack heights
- Riders who want a noticeably more upright position
Why choose it:
A great balance of comfort, confidence and control – especially on modern long-travel bikes.
65 mm Rise – The Freeride Favourite
As riders like Dakota Norton pushed cockpit heights even further, Burgtec responded with the 65 mm Ride High. This is where things start to feel properly tall.
Best for:
- Tall riders (6 ft / 183 cm and above)
- Freeride and bike-park riding
- Bikes with very low front ends
- Riders who want maximum room to move
Why choose it:
A taller bar that keeps you centred and confident on steep chutes, big compressions and freeride lines.
80 mm Rise – Maximum Height, Maximum Confidence
The biggest rise Burgtec offers. This is a specialist bar for riders who want the highest possible front end.
Best for:
- Very tall riders
- Freeride, DH and big-mountain terrain
- Bikes with extremely low stack heights
- Riders who want a super-upright, BMX-inspired stance
Why choose it:
It transforms the cockpit, giving unmatched confidence on steep, technical terrain and big hits.
Who Should Ride a Burgtec Ride High Bar?
Trail Riders
38 mm or 50 mm rise for comfort and control.
Enduro Riders
50 mm or 65 mm rise for steep terrain and aggressive riding.
Freeride / DH Riders
65 mm or 80 mm rise for maximum stability and room to move.
Tall Riders
50 mm, 65 mm or 80 mm depending on bike stack height.
Riders With Low-Stack Bikes
50 mm or 65 mm to bring the cockpit up to a comfortable height.
Final Thoughts: Which Rise Is Right for You?
If you want a simple upgrade that boosts comfort, confidence and control, the Burgtec Ride High bar is one of the best high-rise options available. The geometry is spot-on, the construction is tough without being harsh, and the range of rises means there’s a perfect option for every rider.
Quick guide:
- 38 mm – subtle, balanced, great for trail
- 50 mm – confident, comfortable, ideal for steep terrain
- 65 mm – freeride-ready, great for tall riders
- 80 mm – maximum height, maximum control
Burgtec Ride High Handlebar Rise Comparison
| Rise | Best For | Rider Height | Bike Type / Setup | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 38 mm | Trail riders, all-rounders | Small-XL riders | Bikes with mid-high stack | Subtle height increase, balanced handling, improved comfort without major geometry change |
| 50 mm | Enduro, steep terrain | Medium-XL riders | Bikes with low-mid stack | More upright position, better confidence on steep descents, reduced forward-pitch feeling |
| 65 mm | Freeride, bike-park, tall riders | Medium-XXL riders | Bikes with low stack or long-reach frames | Big boost in cockpit height, more room to move, increased stability on steep or technical terrain |
| 80 mm | Big-mountain, DH, very tall riders | Large-XXL riders | Bikes with very low stack or aggressive freeride builds | Maximum height, ultra-upright stance, huge confidence on chutes, drops and rough terrain |