Do you need new BMX bar ends?
Yes! ABSOLUTELY.
Why?
Let me share a little story.
I was (only) once brave enough to put the bar ends out because I thought my bike looks better.
And then I crashed and stabbed myself in the ribs.
Yup!
Luckily, I didn’t break anything but the bruise was really serious.
Learn from other people’s mistakes.
But I still see so many ride without bar plugs, even pros.
Just. DON’T!
This post covers:
Get plastic ones, they’re cheap and don’t require an allen key (although I highly recommend Odyssey’s Par Ends).
Yo! 🤘
Best Plastic BMX Bar Ends
Remember, bar ends will make your BMX bar last longer. And help you avoid injuries.
1. Odyssey Par Ends (The Best!)
If you need an extremely reliable bar end then I highly recommend that you get Odyssey’s Par Ends.
I’ve tested these vigorously for many years, and still find them the best.
They are made of high-quality plastic and come with a wedge tightening system.
They. Won’t. Move.
Note: These didn’t fit S&M Hoder and WTP Pathfinder bars when testing. These two bars are straight gauge and that’s why (thicker than butted bars).
Price: $4.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS2. ODI Push In Plugs
ODI Push In Plugs come in several color options, covering every rider’s dream shade. You can do pink, red, purple, black, white, etc.
Push it. And forget it.
Price: $5.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS3. Stolen Thermalite Plugz
Stolen’s Plugz are similar to Odyssey’s Par Ends, rocking a wedge system that you need an allen key to tighten.
The main difference is that these come with a built-in steel insert that prevents bar punch through.
I actually really like this type of bar plugs because when you tighten them they don’t move.
Price: $4.99 (may vary)
GET YOURSBest Metal BMX Bar Ends
Even though I’m an advocate of plastic bar plugs, the demand for metal ones is still out there.
So here we go.
4. The Shadow Conspiracy Deadbolt
Since metal barends can add a little weight to your bike, Shadow’s Deadbolts make sure it’s barely noticeable.
These use a traditional wedge system that expands inside the handlebar, keeping it all tight. They also have micro knurling to prevent slippage.
Easy.
I had them for many months and they work really well.
Price: $16.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS5. Colony Konka Bar Ends
The Colony Konka bar ends are crafted from super-strong 7075-T6 aluminum, which means they’re light but tough as nails.
Colony even went the extra mile by hollowing out the center, which keeps them crazy lightweight at just 0.7 oz.
Plus, there’s this handy grub screw that locks them in tight, so no slipping, even when your bike lands harshly.
And let’s be real—this sleek black finish adds that extra edge to your setup.
If you’re looking to elevate your bars with something stylish and ultra-durable, these bar ends are where it’s at.
Price: $12.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS6. Dailygrind DG Barends
Dailygrind created their DG barends with a slim and minimal design in mind.
They are CNCed out of 7075 aluminum and tighten with the traditional wedge system. Plus, you can get them in 7+ color options!
Price: $18.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS7. ODI Aluminum End Plugs
ODI metal bar ends are simple and slim, without the fluff. They use 6061 aluminum with a thin cap that’s made strong to last a long time.
Just like ODI’s grips are high-quality, these are too!
Price: $19.95 (may vary)
GET YOURSFAQs About BMX Bar Ends
What are BMX bar ends?
Bar ends are a BMX part that comes at the end of the handlebar, protecting the bar from scratching and you from getting hurt.
You can get bar plugs in plastic or metal.
Do you need BMX bar ends?
Yes, you NEED bar ends on your BMX bike. Why? Not only will they prevent your handlebar from scratching and developing rough edges, but you also protect yourself.
You can get a cheaper, plastic version, or a more expensive, but longer-lasting, alloy.
How do I choose the right bar ends for my BMX bike?
When choosing bar ends for your BMX bike, consider the material and compatibility. Bar ends are typically made from plastic or metal.
Plastic bar ends are lighter and less damaging to skatepark surfaces, while metal ones are more durable. Ensure the bar ends fit the diameter of your handlebars and grips. (For instance, Odyssey Par Ends don’t fit S&M Hoder bar – because the bar tubbing is thicker.)
How do you install BMX bar ends?
Just slide them in and tighten the grub screw or use a mallet if they’re press-fit.
Do bar ends affect handlebar weight?
A little, but CNC-machined or hollowed or plastic ones are designed to be lightweight, so it’s barely noticeable.
You may also be interested in my collections of:
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Note: This article was originally published on May 16, 2022. But I regularly review it and update it with necessary improvements for accuracy.
