The_Break Posted February 25, 2009 Posted February 25, 2009 I am looking into buying myself a new stem and handlebar combination. I want something that will climb well and give a super platform for the sprint. Want something that is very stiff yet light. Handlebar and stem under 360g.I am currently looking at the Zipp SL, SLC2 and SL145 as well as the 3T ARX LTD stem and Team Rotundo bar. Does anyone have any hands on experience with these or can give me feedback on other super stiff products?The_Break2009-02-25 09:34:00
carlo_sg Posted February 25, 2009 Posted February 25, 2009 if money is no object, get the Zipp SLC2 and SL145 combo, approx. 350gI've heard the 3T stuff is no where near as light as it says it is...Generally speaking, more weight in carbon = more stiffness. I've got ITM K-Sword Bars and stem, by no means light, but stiff as hell!
The_Break Posted February 25, 2009 Author Posted February 25, 2009 why do you say this? You know someone who has ridden the components?
Spinnekop Posted February 25, 2009 Posted February 25, 2009 Carlo sq.....I also have the ITM swords on my bike........and they are definitely NOT stiff........ You get a LOT stiffer handlebar/stem combos with a LOT less weight.....but you won't look as fast.....
carlo_sg Posted February 25, 2009 Posted February 25, 2009 Carlo sq.....I also have the ITM swords on my bike........and they are definitely NOT stiff........ You get a LOT stiffer handlebar/stem combos with a LOT less weight.....but you won't look as fast..... Really? Mine are super-stiff, But I'm a lightweight.The only time I can feel flex, it when I'm in the drops, going very fast over very bumpy surfaces, other than that, none what so ever. Yes, they do look good.
carlo_sg Posted February 25, 2009 Posted February 25, 2009 why do you say this? You know someone who has ridden the components? I've spoken to people who have, and apparantly the Zipps are Stiff and lightweight. While Easton was at the other end of the scale in terms of stiffness. I've also weighed 3T products, and they were a lot heavier than spec.carlo_sg2009-02-25 06:58:28
The_Break Posted February 25, 2009 Author Posted February 25, 2009 I got some test data from a certain test centre that said what you guys are saying. They tested 5 handlebars, Zipp SL, Zipp SLC2, Easton EC90 Equip SL, Ritchey WCS carbon evolution and the FSA K-force Carbon. The Zipp bars had an 8% difference in torsional stiffness, whilst the closest bar was the Ritchey and FSA down 38% and 42% respectively and the Easton was down 52%. I was not sure if it could be believed, but it sounds similar to what you saying about Easton.
The_Break Posted February 25, 2009 Author Posted February 25, 2009 Oh, SLC2 was the winner, but interesting to see the SL so close behind compared to Zipps marketing wording.
slowtwitch Posted February 26, 2009 Posted February 26, 2009 Sorry Break, you forgot the winner... Bontrager XXX Lite - 170g and trust me - they are plenty stiff - read all the reviews as well. Wack on a Bonti stem and you get bling with it.However having said that don't fool yourself into thinking it's gonna change your sprinting performance to Thor's. It just aint happening
The_Break Posted February 26, 2009 Author Posted February 26, 2009 Hey, looks nice. Very similar in shape to the Zipp. I can only improve my sprints with new bars as I currently have a Ritchey WCS Alu stem and ITM wingshape bars. They belong on a menu at an Italian restuarant under the pasta menu with meatballs. P.S. don't those cable ties cut into your paint?
slowtwitch Posted February 26, 2009 Posted February 26, 2009 Not sure, ask Levi My setup is a Bonti bar with a FSA carbon 120mm stem (wich is not the stiffest)Maybe stiffer cockpit would've help you catching Francois on Saterday
The_Break Posted February 26, 2009 Author Posted February 26, 2009 Na, just a load more magnesium and having gone with him like I should have. Didn't really know he was a climber so thought he would blow. Obvioulsy I was very wrong!!!!!!!!!
slowtwitch Posted February 26, 2009 Posted February 26, 2009 o yes and Super Sprinter Wayne Phiffer's cockpit is a Ritchy carbon bar with a alu PRO 140mm stem. Not the stiffest combination either but good enough for the big dude
The_Break Posted February 27, 2009 Author Posted February 27, 2009 Never heard of the guy. Is he the guy with the pink undies underneath his cycling shorts?
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