T- and Z- Bars

T-Bars and Z-Bars

The TÜV nightmare of the 70s and 80s! Back then, anyone who took pride in themselves and their chopper had to have one mounted on their extra-long forks: a T-bar or Z-bar. What’s the difference? With a T-bar, you peer through a nearly square window of tubing, while the Z-bar skips the top crossbar. Both are welded at the corners—and that’s exactly what made the TÜV inspectors shake their heads in disbelief. "This can’t possibly hold! Welded handlebars?! And those sharp edges—someone could get hurt!"

How times have changed... T-bars like the Bates Pasadena now have TÜV approval, and what once made inspectors lose sleep is now considered chic. If you want to bring back the glorious 80s vibe, go for a Z-bar or T-bar. Bates, Biltwell, Fehling, Roland Sands, and Paughco all offer cleanly welded options with a sleek finish.