331g – Standard OE Bar
462g – Aero Gravel 42cm Bar
Based on the above photos – you can see the added weight for the front extension is roughly 131g. We say roughly as this is a 42cm Aero Gravel Handlebar which is substantially wider ( due to the flare in the drops ) and therefore heavier before the addition of the integrated extension. Don’t worry, we’ll explain a bit later in this blog post.
Below is the summary of the 2 handlebars are we are referencing :
Ok, so we had the AERO GRAVEL handlebar and after a few months began getting requests for a similar handlebar but WITHOUT the flare in the drops. This is when the AERO DROP project was started. The purpose of this post is not to convince you that an integrated dropbar is BETTER than a standard dropbar, but rather to clarify the difference in the 2 options in our range.
Assuming you are in the market for a VERSATILE + AERO + COMFORT upgrade for your dropbar bike, then read further.
Apart from the obvious shape differences between our 2 handlebar models, it gets even more interesting when you start analysing the weight and width difference between the same ” size ” ( measured center-to-centre ) bars in each model.
For illustrative purposes we have used the 44cm size bars.
Visual Difference – 44cm Size
What is evident is the added overall width of the Aero Gravel model – courtesy of the flare in the drops. This equates to a slight weight difference as below.
The Aero Gravel handlebar is more suited for gravel / bikepacking enthusiasts. The addition of the flare in the drops definitely helps with control when the path or trail is not smooth or if you are riding a bike that is fully loaded with gear. Visually it also tends to suit adventure builds.
Aero Gravel 44cm – 498g
Aero Drop 44cm – 470g
The Aero Drop handlebar is more suited to road riders who prefer a more traditional shape of handlebar, but want to add some comfort and versatility for some adventure / endurance rides. With modern roadbikes getting clearance for wider tires, this is something we are seeing more and more of.
If you’re chasing pure weight savings but still want the integrated front extension, then check out the 421g option – the Aero Drop in 38cm width. Now we’re talking 90g difference … the difference in some tire weights.
421g – Aero Drop 38cm
The Aero Drop handlebar is available in traditional road sizes too – these being 38, 40, 42, 44 and 46cm widths. Below shows the huge difference in size when you consider the narrowest to the widest option for your bike.
The Integrated Front Extension Bar for Roadies – Aero Drop
Hopefully the above photos and details add some information and details with regards to the 2 different models. Feel free to reach out to us for any additional info needed.
The related product pages ( see below ) do include technical drawings for each handlebar too.
AERO GRAVEL product page HERE
AERO DROP product page HERE