It’s no secret that a barbell is the foundation of any strength training program and choosing the right bar can mean the difference between you making progress or plateauing. In this comprehensive Barbell Buyers Guide, we'll take a deep dive into the world of barbells and explore everything you need to know to make an informed decision. From understanding the different types of barbells and their unique features, to exploring the benefits of specialty bars, we'll provide you with all the information you need to choose the perfect barbell to help you reach your fitness goals. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced lifter, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to make a smart, informed purchase.
In this guide, we'll take a closer look at the different types of Xpeed Olympic barbells available and what to consider when choosing the right one for your needs.
Barbell Elements
Firstly, lets understand the components of what makes up a barbell
Sleeve
The section of the barbell where the weights are attached. Usually consists of a loadable length of around 40 centimetres, and has a diameter of 50mm. The sleeve rotates independently of the rest of the bar, which allows the weights to spin during exercises like cleans and snatches.
Collar
The part of the barbell that stops the weight from sliding onto the shaft.
Shaft
Typically the overall length of a barbell is 7 foot long. The knurled, straight section of the barbell that sits between the collars is called the shaft. The shaft has a diameter of 28-29mm for men's bars and 25mm for women's bars. The shaft is usually knurled to provide a better grip and is typically around 131 cm in length.
Knurling
A textured section of the barbell shaft that provides additional grip during Olympic lifting exercises.
Markings
Markings on the shaft that indicate the centre point of the bar, as well as the spacing for hand placement during exercises like the bench press.
End Caps
The caps at the end of the sleeves and help protect the barbell from damage as well as displaying key barbell information.
What to Consider When Choosing a Barbell
When choosing an Xpeed barbell or specialty barbell, there are several factors to consider, including:
Barbell Type
Consider the type of lifting activity you'll be doing most often, and choose a barbell that's designed specifically for that type of activity.
Material and Coating
Our barbells are made of high-quality steel with the coloured X-Series barbells featuring a durable cerakote coating that will withstand heavy use over time.
Weight and Diameter
Choose a barbell with a weight and diameter that's appropriate for your level of fitness and lifting goals. If you’re new, consider trying a 15kg Training barbell. If you’re looking for Olympic lifting then the P and X Series Barbells are for you.
Knurling
Consider the aggressiveness of the knurling on the barbell, and choose a barbell with a knurling that's appropriate for your level of comfort and grip strength. Aggressive knurling can provide a secure grip during heavy lifts, but may be uncomfortable for some lifters, while lighter knurling may be more comfortable but less secure.
Spin
Consider the type of bearing or bushing system used in the barbell, as this can affect the spin and stability of the barbell during lifts. Needle bearings are generally considered the best option for smooth, consistent spin. Whereas, the spin of a bushing is slower and more measured than that of a bearing.
X-Series - 8 fold needle bearing with brass bushing
P-Series - 4-fold needle bearing with brass bushing
D-Series - brass bushings
Training Barbell - 4-fold needle bearing with brass bushing
Weight Capacity
Make sure to choose a barbell with a weight capacity that's appropriate for your lifting goals, as lifting beyond the weight capacity can be dangerous and damage the barbell.
X-Series - 700kg
P-Series - 450kg
D-Series - 300kg
Training Barbell - 450kg
Budget
Xpeed barbells have a wide range in price, so consider your budget and choose a barbell that fits within your price range while still meeting your needs.
Bearings & Bushing
Understand a barbell's suitability based on its bearing system and construction.
Bearing System: 8-Fold Needle Bearings with Brass Bushing
This barbell features a total of eight needle bearings distributed evenly across the sleeve, along with brass bushings. The additional number of needle bearings provides smoother and more consistent rotation during lifts, reducing friction and improving performance. The brass bushings help to maintain stability and reduce wear and tear on the bearings. This combination is often found in high-end Olympic weightlifting barbells designed for competitive lifting.
Typical Use: Ideal for competitive weightlifting, Olympic lifts, and serious strength training where smooth rotation and precision are crucial.
Bearing System: 4-Fold Needle Bearing with Brass Bushing
With four needle bearings evenly spaced within the sleeve, this barbell offers decent rotational performance and reduced friction. The inclusion of brass bushings provides additional stability and support, making it suitable for general strength training and fitness workouts. While not as high-performing as the 8-fold or 6-fold systems, it still delivers reliable performance for most lifting needs.
Typical Use: Suitable for general strength training, fitness workouts, and home gyms, offering a balance between performance and affordability.
Bearing System: Brass Bushing
A barbell with just brass bushings relies solely on the bushings for rotational movement within the sleeve. This setup is more common in budget-friendly or entry-level barbells. While it may lack the smoothness and precision of needle bearings, brass bushings still provide adequate stability and durability for basic lifting and fitness routines. They are a cost-effective option for beginners or casual lifters.
Typical Use: Ideal for beginners, casual lifters, home gyms, and basic strength training exercises. Offers affordability without compromising on stability and durability.
Bearing System
Description
Typical Use
8-Fold Needle Bearings with Brass Bushing
This barbell features a total of eight needle bearings distributed evenly across the sleeve, along with brass bushings. The additional number of needle bearings provides smoother and more consistent rotation during lifts, reducing friction and improving performance. The brass bushings help to maintain stability and reduce wear and tear on the bearings. This combination is often found in high-end Olympic weightlifting barbells designed for competitive lifting.
Ideal for competitive weightlifting, Olympic lifts, and serious strength training where smooth rotation and precision are crucial.
4-Fold Needle Bearing with Brass Bushing
With four needle bearings evenly spaced within the sleeve, this barbell offers decent rotational performance and reduced friction. The inclusion of brass bushings provides additional stability and support, making it suitable for general strength training and fitness workouts. While not as high-performing as the 8-fold or 6-fold systems, it still delivers reliable performance for most lifting needs.
Suitable for general strength training, fitness workouts, and home gyms, offering a balance between performance and affordability.
Brass Bushing
A barbell with just brass bushings relies solely on the bushings for rotational movement within the sleeve. This setup is more common in budget-friendly or entry-level barbells. While it may lack the smoothness and precision of needle bearings, brass bushings still provide adequate stability and durability for basic lifting and fitness routines. They are a cost-effective option for beginners or casual lifters.
Ideal for beginners, casual lifters, home gyms, and basic strength training exercises. Offers affordability without compromising on stability and durability.
Meet The Xpeed Barbells
Xpeed offers a range of barbells designed for different types of lifting activities, including powerlifting, weightlifting, and general strength training. Here are some of the most popular.
Xpeed X-Series Barbell
Crafted with precision and care, the X Series Olympic Barbell is made to withstand the toughest workouts. It’s designed with ribbed loading sleeves to increase plate stability along with carefully textured knurling. As a result, this has a great feel for the athlete. Tough, durable and elegant, it is our flagship barbell designed for competitive lifting as well as cross training, olympic lifting, powerlifting.
Made with high-quality steel
20kg weight with a 28mm diameter and a 750kg weight capacity
Dual markings for powerlifting and weightlifting
Moderate knurling for a comfortable grip during lifts
Suitable for general strength training, CrossFit, and other high-intensity workouts
A smooth whip from the 4 needle bearing construction allows easy manoeuvrability for athletes performing at their highest level with the Xpeed P Series Barbell. Our finest knurling allows for a secure and comfortable grip throughout a repetitive Olympic lifting program. Preferred use for this barbell is cross training, olympic lifting, powerlifting and multipurpose gym use. A great training tool to help you gain lean body mass, drop fat and improve your general fitness and health.
Made with high-quality steel
20kg weight with a 28mm diameter and a 450kg weight capacity
Dual markings for powerlifting and weightlifting
Moderate knurling for a comfortable grip during lifts
Suitable for general strength training, CrossFit, and other high-intensity workouts
The D Series Chrome Olympic Barbell is the ideal bar to master your technique in a gym, studio or home setup. Overall this barbell is not designed for Olympic lifting or to be dropped during use.
Leading features of this beginner barbell include the controlled rotation coupled with the coarser knurling. As a result, a unique feel and a firm grip on the bar is provided.
Made with high-quality steel
20kg weight with a 28mm diameter and a 300kg weight capacity
Dual markings for weightlifting
Rough knurling and centre for grip during lifts
Suitable for general strength training, CrossFit, and other high-intensity workouts
The Xpeed 15kg Training Barbell is a lighter weight barbell designed for beginners and those learning proper lifting technique. Here are some key features of the Xpeed Technique Barbell:
Made of high-quality steel with a chrome coating for durability
10kg weight with a 25mm diameter and a 300-pound weight capacity
Smooth spin for easy lifts
Light knurling for a comfortable grip during lifts
Suitable for beginners and those learning proper lifting technique
Xpeed barbells are a great choice for fitness enthusiasts of all levels, with a range of options designed for different types of lifting activities. When choosing an Xpeed barbell, consider factors like barbell type, material and coating, weight and diameter, knurling, spin, weight capacity, and budget. By choosing the right Xpeed barbell for your needs, you can improve your strength, performance, and overall fitness.
Specialty Bars
At Xpeed we also offer a range of specialty bars designed to target specific muscle groups and enhance lifting performance.
Specialty barbells have surged in popularity due to their ability to cater to specific fitness needs and goals. These barbells are designed with unique features such as different grip widths, varying textures for improved grip, or specialised shapes like hexagonal or bent bars. They offer versatility in targeting specific muscle groups, enhancing performance, and reducing strain or discomfort during exercises. For instance, a hex trap bar can be excellent for deadlifts, reducing stress on the lower back. Whereas a Bent Barbell provides evenly distributed weight across your shoulders for squatting. These specialised options not only make workouts more effective but also safer and more comfortable.
Questions To Ask
Make informed decisions with Xpeed.
Will the barbell be used for Olympic lifting, powerlifting, or general fitness? Different types of barbells are designed for different purposes, so it's important to choose one that's appropriate for your needs.
Will you be using a standard barbell or a specialty barbell? Specialty barbells, such as trap bars or curl bars, may be useful for specific exercises, but they may also be more expensive.
What is the maximum amount of weight the barbell can hold? Make sure the weight capacity is sufficient for your needs.
How long and thick is the barbell? The length and diameter of the barbell can impact its weight capacity and performance. This can also impact the 'feel' of the bar. Some people prefer the smaller diameter of the 15kg barbell compared to the 20kg bar.
This refers to the texture of the barbell shaft, which can affect grip and comfort. Some barbells have a more aggressive knurling pattern, while others may have a smoother or more subtle pattern.
This refers to the type of finish on the barbell, which can affect its durability and grip. Some barbells have a bare steel finish, while others may be coated in chrome, zinc, or another material. The Xpeed X Series Barbells have a cerakote coating.
Conclusion
Xpeed barbells are a great choice for fitness enthusiasts of all levels, with a range of options designed for different types of lifting activities. When choosing an Xpeed barbell, consider factors like barbell type, material and coating, weight and diameter, knurling, spin, weight capacity, and budget. By choosing the right Xpeed barbell for your needs, you can improve your strength, performance, and overall fitness.
