Hi. I’m looking to make my commuter a bit more upright (getting older) and want to change my handlebar to help with that. I think the typical beach cruiser handlebars (Electra) are too wide. Could a typical road-bike “bullhorn” handlebar be used backwards so the ends are closer to me rather than further?
I switched from a straight bar to the Jones H-bar on my commuter and really like it. Gives you a variety of hand positions.
https://jonesbikes.com/jones-h-bar-sg-2-5-loop-aluminum/
My opinion is that if it works for you, it works.
I can think of a number of different shapes of bullhorn handlebars, some would work better than others, either swiveled so they’re upside down or fully removed and rotated 180. Might have trouble with some configurations if you have to steer too tightly though.
But what about this: bullhorns are basically road bike bars that have been flipped and chopped. What if you just used those without chopping them? That would help get you higher up.
You can, but you likely won’t get as good of result compared to handlebars designed for upright riding. Also, most bullhorn bars have a diameter of 23.8mm, which limits the brake levers and shifters you can attach. There are plenty of swept back bars that don’t feel like beach cruiser bars. North Road style bars are made by a number of companies, and worth a look. If being rather narrow is important, check out the Nitto Bosco.
