Shimano are powering on with their gravel offering in 2021, adding two new alloy drop handlebars and a new carbon one to the range, and refreshing the PRO Discover range of bikepacking bags. On the tarmac, the 2021 PRO Road segment sees four new cut-out saddles and three new alloy handlebars. Here’s a quick introduction to the 2021 PRO Bike Gear component and gear offering.
2021 PRO Road Saddles
PRO say they exercised much caution in the design of the new road saddles as they were already very happy with the proven one-piece carbon PRO Stealth saddle. The reason for the upgrades? To make the saddles more compatible with modern road bikes. The Falcon, Turnix and Griffon are all upgraded for 2021, while an all-new PRO Stealth Sport is added to the range too.
PRO say the new saddles blend a traditional saddle length with the latest research into pressure mapping of the contact point between riders and the saddle. Each saddle is designed around a particular style of riding. You can use the PRO Saddle Selector to find out which is best for you.
PRO Falcon Saddle
The PRO Falcon saddle is designed for riders with good hip flexibility who maintain a stable, aerodynamic and aggressive position on the bike. Two price points are available; Performance and Team. The Falcon Team gets stainless steel rails while the Performance gets lighter, stiffer carbon rails. All feature an anatomic recess for pressure relief on sensitive areas, and are available in 132mm and 142mm width options.
PRO Turnix Saddle ![shaimno update turnix road saddle for 2021](data:image/svg+xml,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 1200 600"></svg>)
Riders with a little less flexibility might appreciate the less aggressive PRO Turnix saddle. Like the Falcon and Griffon saddles, the Turnix is available in Performance and Team models. Width options include 132mm, 142mm and 152mm.
PRO Griffon Saddle
The new Griffon saddle is for riders who favor a more upright position on the bike. Lightweight PU padding sits atop an in-molded carbon reinforced base on 142mm and 152mm platforms.
New PRO Stealth Sport Saddle
The PRO Stealth Sport saddle boasts a short-nosed design and a wide anatomic recess like the rest of the Stealth range, but it is set on Chromoly rails. This will add weight to the saddle but does give it a more budget-friendly price point than the PRO Stealth options with stainless steel rails.
2021 PRO Road Vibe and VLT Handlebars
PRO’s Vibe road cycling handlebars go aluminium for 2021. The original carbon iteration is still available but PRO have added two 6066 alloy versions for those who prefer the different ride feel and don’t mind the extra weight.
The Vibe Aero Alloy Pursuit and Vibe Aero Alloy bars blend the aerodynamic, electronic shifting cable integration and internal cable routing design of the PRO Vibe carbon handlebar with the affordability and durability of an alloy construction.
The Vibe Aero alloy pursuit bars are aimed at racing cyclists. They offer a 10-degree flare and a 12-degree forward sweep from the clamping point to the hoods. This configuration should encourage riders to maintain an efficient, aerodynamic position on the bike.
The PRO Vibe Aero Alloy handlebars meanwhile, offer a more traditional platform, without the sweep and dramatic flare of the Vibe Aero Alloy Pursuit handlebars. They feature aerodynamic tops and a 6 degree flare.
More weight-conscious riders may want to take a closer look at the PRO PLT Carbon Ergo handlebars. This bar is available in six widths from 36cm to 46cm.
2021 PRO Gravel Handlebars
PRO have developed two new Gravel-specific bars for 2021. First up is the PRO LT Gravel Alloy. Available in 40cm, 42cm, 44cm, and 46cm width options, the bar is constructed from a lightweight 6066 aluminium with a 10-degree flare. A compact bend to the drops should improve control on rough terrain by making it easier to change hand positions from the tops or hoods to the drops.
The Discover Alloy 20 handlebars boast a more dramatic flare to the drops. A 20 degree flare might be more attractive to those who are pushing the limits of what a gravel bike should be capable of. The Discover Alloy 20 handlebars are lighter than the LT Gravel Alloy bars. Available in three widths; 40cm, 42cm and 44cm, they offer semi-internal cable routing as well as ergonomic tops and compact drops.
PRO Discover Team Bikepacking Bags
PRO add the new Discover Team range of bikepacking bags for 2021. These are the premium versions – all lighter weight and 15,000mm more waterproof than the original Discover range.
| Discover Bag | Capacity (L) | Weight (g) | Waterproof Rating (mm) |
| Team Top Tube | 0.7 | 83 | 20,000 |
| Team Seat Post | 10 | 201 | 20,000 |
| Team Frame | 5.5 | 135 | 20,000 |
In addition to the existing range of Discover bikepacking bags, PRO have added a small handlebar bag for 2021. It joins the Discover Team Top Tube Bag, Frame Bag and Seat Post Bag. The small handlebar bag straps neatly to a bicycle’s handlebars and steerer. It features two compartments and a waterproof construction allowing for it to be used in wet weather to keep items safe and dry.
Pricing & Availability
All items in the 2021 PRO Road and 2021 PRO Gravel range are expected to be in stores by November/December. Check with your local retailer for pricing.
