Full Speed Ahead's US$40 Omega compact road handlebars offer an 80mm reach and 125mm drop in the hooks for long-distance comfort and control, especially on long descents where feathering the brakes is important.
The black 300g Omegas are made of double butted, tapered and shot-peened T6 6066 aluminium, with a 31.8mm oversized clamp diameter. The double-grooved cable routing helps keep the lumps to a minimum after wrapping the bars with tape.
Verdict
Many experts have said it's best, for compatability's sake, to use the same maker's stem with its bars, and I chose the FSA OS-99 alu stem to go with these bars. While carbon is becoming the popular material of choice throughout the bike, I still believe strongly that aluminium is best, and can be made light enough for the weight weenies.
Handlebar width choice is important, and the 44cm test bars worked just right for my wide shoulders. The Omega bars are among the best value, and the transition between the outer curves and the SRAM Force Double Tap shift/brake levers were quite natural. A favourite shape for riders with shorter hands or those like me wanting a slightly higher position.
© BikeRadar 2008