The S&M 12 Step bars are no joke.
Everyone thought that an 11″ BMX bar rise was too much. But not S&M.
And so they released the 12 Step handlebar.
Yup, that’s 12 inches of rise.
Can you imagine? (I feel you.)
Fun fact: The crossbar height on this beast is 9 inches tall. That’s the height of actual bars that were once considered “high.”
Damn, how time changes.
At 12 inches, these bars are the tallest available from S&M and are designed for riders who want maximum height and control.
Whether you need a bar that matches your larger (22″) frame or just prefer an ultra-high front end, the 12 Step bars make a bold statement.
These bars are made from straight gauge 4130 chromoly and are built to handle heavy riding.
Moreover, the big box design and dual-radius bends (with larger top bend) improve strength but, at the same time, ensure a nice look.
Available in multiple colors so you can easily find the right match for your bike and style.
GET YOUR 12 STEP BARSS&M 12 Step BMX Bars Review
1. Design & Build Quality
The S&M 12 Step bars are constructed from .083″ wall straight gauge 4130 chromoly tubing.
Although a big bar, it’s still incredibly strong and stiff despite the extra leverage.
The dual-radius bends add to the durability (mainly because of the larger top bend), helping distribute stress and reduce the risk of bending or breaking.
With a whopping 12-inch rise and 32-inch width, these bars are designed for riders who prefer a high front-end setup.
Usually, these are very tall riders or even those who have (lower) back issues.
If you’ve ever felt cramped on standard bars, these will open up your cockpit and make your ride feel more spacious and comfortable.
2. S&M 12 Step Bars Key Features
- Big box design: Extra-wide and tall for a comfortable feel and good look.
- Straight gauge .083″ wall 4130 chromoly: Maximum durability and strength. And because of straight gauge tubing, S&M also keeps these bars relatively affordable.
- Dual-radius bends: Increases resilience against stress and impacts.
- Made in the USA: Quality craftsmanship from S&M.
- Multiple color options – Available in black, chrome, blue, red, white, clear, etc.
3. How S&M 12 Step Bars Ride
Before I continue, no, I don’t recommend these for any really serious shredding and even less for technical wizardry.
The S&M 12 Step bars offer unmatched height and control.
This makes them ideal for taller riders or those who want an upright and comfortable riding position.
The 12-inch rise helps keep the front end high, reducing strain on your back and arms.
The 11° backsweep and 1.5° upsweep provide a natural wrist position, making long sessions more comfortable.
Some riders report that these bars feel too tall on a 20-inch BMX, but they fit perfectly on a 22-inch setup or bigger frames.
These bars could be a game-changer if you ride a bigger bike or prefer an upright stance.
Also, if you’re more into flow, riding transitions and trails, again, these bars can do the trick.
But for street, I don’t think so.
However, you do you – do what feels right to you, that’s all that really matters.
4. Real Rider Feedback
- “I originally tried these bars on my 20-inch bike, and honestly, they felt like too much. The extra height made the front end feel way too lifted for my riding style. But once I swapped them onto my 22-inch setup, everything changed. The bike instantly felt more balanced, the handling improved, and I finally understood why these bars exist. If you’re on a bigger frame, these are a fantastic solution!” – Jake R.
- “At 6’3” and 220 pounds, finding the right bars was a challenge for me. These are exactly what I needed. The extra height makes my setup feel natural, giving me more room to move and better control. They take all the pressure off my back and wrists, making long sessions way more comfortable. If you’re a taller rider, these bars make a huge difference in how your bike feels.” – Matt C.
- “I’m 6’2” and put these on my Mini Rocker as a joke, but now I can’t stop riding them. They look absolutely massive, but somehow, they make the bike feel way more fun and comfortable. Definitely not the most practical choice, but if you want to turn heads and have a blast, these bars are pure entertainment!” – Chris D.
5. S&M 12 Step Bars Specs
- Rise: 12”
- Width: 32”
- Backsweep: 11°
- Upsweep: 1.5°
- Crossbar height: 9”
- Crossbar width: 12.5”
- Material: Straight gauge .083″ wall 4130 chromoly
- Weight: 2 lbs 14 oz (1,296 g)
- Colors: Black, chrome, blue, red, white, clear
- Price: $79.95 – $114.95
Conclusion: Should You (Really) Get The S&M 12 Step Bars?
If you’re looking for the tallest bars on the market, the S&M 12 Step bars are exactly what you need.
Designed for tall riders, bigger bikes, or those who love an ultra-high front end, these provide max comfort and control.
While they might be too tall for some setups, they are perfect for 22-inch BMX bikes and larger frames.
The straight gauge chromoly construction with a larger top bed ensures that these bars can handle anything you throw at them.
If you want to make a bold statement with your setup and ride in comfort, the S&M 12 Step Bars are a must-have.
Are they for everyone? No.
But those who ride them have a blast.
Yo! 🤘
GET YOUR 12 STEP BARSFurther reading:
