For a number of reasons, there’s little more confidence-inspiring than a Syntace product. While their graphics aren’t flashy and they don’t tend to change things often, the German company’s attention to detail is clear. Every product comes with extensive , informative installation and use instructions- and admonishments to read them before use.
The 740mm wide, 12 degree Vector Carbon handlebar and Megaforce 2 stems are, in effect, made for one another. Combining the current trends for wider bars and more comfortable sweeps, the Vector Carbon somehow manages to look at once badass and comfortable. To manage all that leverage, the Megaforce 2 stem is one of the widest we’ve seen, with 5mm hardware all around- but still manages a trail-worthy weight. Hit the jump for more photos and the full details…
The 42mm wide Megaforce 2 stem is really a cool looking piece of kit. Designed to make the most of wide bars and tapered steerers, Syntace’s latest stem comes in at 142g (80mm) and just under $100. Though it looks relatively short in profile, it’s a fairly standard 36mm tall with a 6° rise. All of the hardware includes little o-rings, presumably to gently hold the steerer and bars during installation or adjustment.
A 6g Litecap is included with the stem and sits flush with the top of the stem for a very clean look if so desired. All of its machining and marking are actually on the cap’s underside, keeping visual clutter to a minimum.
Designed to take maximum advantage of carbon fiber’s strength and vibration damping potential, Syntace claim that the 31.8mm Vector Carbon “isn’t only stronger than others, but it also absorbs smaller impacts and vibrations better thanks to its outstanding dampening [sic] characteristics – as well as offering an incredible steering precision.” An in-molded titanium mesh helps to reinforce the clamping area while a bit of texture helps to reduce the need for high fastener torque.
The 12° sweep is apparently difficult to manufacture and something that Syntace are quite proud of. Despite its width and 220g weight, the Vector Carbon is downhill standard VR-3 approved, exceeding what is said to be the world’s toughest handlebar and stem test requirements. Syntace have even gone so far as to include assembly paste and provide recommended torques for specific shifters in their instructions. Again: confidence-inspiring.
While we hope not to test the stem or $220 bar or to its limits, long days riding big bikes on big mountains should let us know if Syntace’s comfort and stiffness promises ring true. Look for a full review later this summer. In the meantime, Syntace products (including the excellent P6 Hiflex seatpost) are available from US several distributors as well as importers Radsport USA.
marc
