When purchasing a road bicycle, brand name, cost, weight and intended use are common factors to consider. Once purchased, riders fit the bicycle to their specific body type, weight and preferred riding position. There are three points of contact on a bicycle, (handlebars, seat and pedals) that have a significant impact on ride comfort, power transfer and aerodynamics. Often, a rider will change the handlebars for aerodynamic, ergo dynamics or weight advantages.
Bontrager Race XXX Lite VR 31.8
Bontrager is the in-house component supplier for Trek Bicycles. Using carbon fiber construction, the Race XXX Lite VR 31.8 gives the rider a lightweight, stiff handlebar well suited for riding flat or mountainous terrain. The VR 31.8 uses a variable radius drop that lands in the middle of a full round drop and an ergonomic bend. The drop is 135 mm and the reach is 85 mm, with a round tube shape. Weighing just 182 g, the bars are strong and stiff enough to sprint or climb while using the drops. Aero-bars are not suggested for these handlebars, which might be of concern for triathlon riders. The Race XXX Lite VR 31.8 are the handlebars of choice on the higher end Trek road bikes and has an estimated retail price of $349.99 for 2010.
Easton EC90 SLX3
World Champion Road cyclist Cadel Evans and the BMC professional cycling team use the EC90 SLX3 handlebar, which features advanced carbon construction. This is Easton's lightest and versatile handlebar for road racing. The EC90 SLX3 features a shallow drop with a compact reach, giving the rider numerous, comfortable hand positions with easy access to control levers. The bar weighs in at a slight 195 g. Using taper-wall technology, Easton applies added material to wall surfaces where stiffness is important and less material where needed. This process gives more strength, shock absorption and improved handling characteristics. The Easton EC90 SLX3 has an estimated retail price of $250 for 2010.
3T Rotundo LTD
3T is the choice of several top professional cycling teams such as Cervelo Test Team and Garmin Transitions. The Rotundo LTD uses a classic shape that is medium deep with a round drop bend, a traditional shape for racers, although 3T says this handlebar combines tradition with innovation. Constructed of carbon fiber, the Rotundo LTD is strong and durable, yet lightweight at 169 g. The drop is 139 mm with an 83-mm reach. As with many lightweight handlebars intended for road racing, 3T does not recommend using clip on aero-bars with this product. The 3T Rotundo LTD handlebar has a suggested retail price of $400 for 2010.
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