Road Cycling » Handlebars

Syntace USA C2 Clip Ultralite Aero

Cycling Junkie — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 07:12:15 +0000

The Ultralite Aero bars from American manufacturer Syntace are triathlon-style bars that are perfect for changing up your road riding routine.

Featuring padded, adjustable BioWing armrests positioned behind the bars, the Aeros allow you to streamline your body position and minimise the resistance of your body against the wind.

Although the pads do not fold up like those on the bars of some competitors, there is a good amount of space in front of them to hold onto if you wish to ride in an upright position.

There are three sizes available for these bars: small (for people up to 5’6”), medium (for people up to 6’) and large (for everyone over 6’).

These are at the expensive end of the range for handlebars but many people think they are the best option for Aero bars.

Salsa Cycles Poco Bar

Cycling Junkie — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 07:10:31 +0000

The Poco Bar is a zesty little number from Salsa Cycles that is best suited to people with small hands or those who like a really snug fit with their drops.

Coming with a big range of sizing options – from 36cm to 44cm widths – the Poco Bar has a reach of 70mm and a drop of 140mm.

This tighter drop space is preferable for those who usually feel uncomfortable when bent down in the racing position, and for those who need to be able to switch back to the flat section of their bars quickly.

It can take a little getting used to the smaller and tighter bar structure of the Poco, but once you have switched you will most likely find it a snug and secure fit.

Many riders have commented that the Poco Bar is a stiff climbing option and the narrowness of the smaller bars also makes it great for navigating heavy traffic.

Specs:

Poco Bar is single grooved (36cm has no grooves).
Available in 36-44cm widths.
26.0 diameter.
Black bead blast finish.
140 drop.
70 reach.

DEDA Newton

Cycling Junkie — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 07:00:58 +0000

Although not the lightest handlebars out there at close to 250 grams, the DEDA Newton has won plenty of supporters with its stiffness and durability.

They are known as being ultra reliable – more so than many of the carbon combinations that users regularly report troubles with.

An interesting option is choosing between the deep and shallow shape when you order the bars. This gives the rider plenty of flexibility and allows personal touch.

Some riders don’t like the ergonomic design of these bars but if you are one of them, the choice is simple: buy other bars.

FSA K-Wing Carbon

Cycling Junkie — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 06:59:54 +0000

Bucking the traditional trend for rounded drops are the FSA K-Wing Carbon handlebars, which weigh in a 240 grams and come in three sizes (40cm, 42cm or 44cm).

These handlebars sport a much wider flat section than standard bars, making them the preferred choice of those who like to ride more frequently in an upright position.

The drop section of the bars is smaller than normal, and while some people are happy with this, for others it is a cause of discomfort. Make sure you test out this area fully before buying these bars.

Plenty of riders really enjoy the appearance of the K-Wing Carbon.

Easton EC90

Cycling Junkie — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 06:58:50 +0000

Drop bars are the standard prescription for road bikes and, with a couple of notable exceptions, they all look the same.

The Easton EC90 is one of those exceptions; sleek and eye-catching, these handlebars have been growing in popularity over the past few years.

Boasting an all carbon fibre make up, the EC90 weighs in at less than 200 grams and comes in three different sizes (40cm, 42cm and 44cm).

Many riders find these bars particularly comfortable, thanks to the sharp angles that intersect the various points of the handlebars.