The EXS Aerover Handlebar: A Balancing Act of Style and Function
Integrated handlebars are the latest craze in the world of road cycling, promising to elevate your ride with sleek aerodynamics and precision engineering. But they've also earned a reputation for being a mechanic's worst nightmare. So, when a relatively new player like EXS Cycling enters the scene with their Aerover Integrated Handlebar, it's worth examining what sets it apart.
The EXS Advantage:
EXS Cycling brings a unique perspective to the table, founded by UCI mechanics, bike fitters, and engineers who prioritize performance over flashy marketing. Their Aerover handlebar is a testament to this philosophy, targeting riders seeking those marginal gains without compromising ride quality.
What makes the Aerover intriguing is its ability to straddle the line between performance and practicality. It offers a wide range of handlebar width and stem length combinations, ensuring riders can find their perfect fit. This level of customization is crucial, as it allows riders to maintain their preferred riding position while reaping the benefits of an integrated cockpit.
Installation and Design:
Installing the Aerover was surprisingly straightforward, a refreshing change from the usual integrated cockpit headaches. The provided spacers seamlessly integrated the bars with my old Avanti Corsa DR's steerer, creating a sleek, modern look. Cable routing, often a source of frustration, was a breeze thanks to well-designed access ports and smooth internal shaping.
Aesthetically, the Aerover embraces a minimalist approach, with clean lines and no flashy design elements. This understated style is a welcome departure from the over-the-top designs often seen in the market. Despite its integrated construction, the Aerover is impressively lightweight, weighing in at around 290-310 grams, which is a significant achievement for this type of cockpit.
On the Road:
The true test of any handlebar is how it performs on the road. The Aerover delivers a confident and comfortable ride, providing a stable platform for various riding styles. Whether sprinting out of the saddle or cruising on the tops, the Aerover maintains its composure without any noticeable flex. The steering remains precise, and the handlebar avoids the harshness sometimes associated with aero designs, ensuring a smoother ride.
While quantifying aerodynamic gains is challenging without a wind tunnel, the Aerover's slim profile and clean cable integration suggest potential benefits. However, the real value lies in its ability to provide a balanced ride feel, combining stiffness and comfort seamlessly.
Pros and Cons:
The Aerover excels in several areas, including its clean design, thoughtful cable routing, and impressive weight savings. It offers a solid range of customization options, ensuring riders can find their sweet spot. However, it's not without its drawbacks. The price tag is higher than traditional setups, and the proprietary computer mount limits accessory choices. Additionally, the absence of a 440mm width option may disappoint riders who prefer wider handlebars.
Verdict:
The EXS Aerover Integrated Handlebar is a thoughtful offering that caters to riders seeking an integrated cockpit without sacrificing comfort or fit. It demonstrates that careful design can mitigate some of the challenges associated with integrated handlebars. While it doesn't revolutionize the mechanic's experience, it provides a compelling upgrade path for riders looking to enhance their ride without compromise.
In the world of cycling, where every gram and millimeter matters, the Aerover strikes a delicate balance between style and function, making it a worthy consideration for riders seeking that elusive combination of performance and practicality.
