Wide bars offer the fit and control riders like on mountain bikes with modern geometry, but after a few hours of pedaling, we find that it isn’t always the most comfortable on our wrists. Although there are a few options for swept-back bars, many of the options are heavy or just straight up look a bit goofy. Although we’re looking for a bit more comfort, we still want to get rad on the trail, which makes the approach PNW Components took with the Range Handlebar KW Edition intriguing.
The Range MTB Riser bar doesn’t get radial with the numbers, as it only diverges from the norm by a degree or two, (depending on the bars you’re accustomed to) increasing the backsweep to 10º. That said, one degree on a bar 780mm wide could make a significant difference, which is why it’s on our shortlist of bars to try out in the near future.
PNW also chooses to change up from the typical alloy options, fabricating their bar from 2014 aluminum alloy that’s more supple than the traditional 7075 and lighter than 6061. They also include a 3 year warranty.
The PNW Components Range Handlebar KW Edition lists for $69. Learn more at PNWComponents.com.