Not all drop bars excel in every riding style — most would have a different setup for a crit race and a gravel ride. Bontrager feels the same but takes a less exaggerated approach than most to the subject.
What is it — Bontrager GR Elite Gravel Bar
Bontrager’s new GR Elite gravel bar (GR standing for gravel no doubt) includes all the major features of a successful gravel bar; short reach, flared but not insane, additional padding that doesn’t look like campfire marshmallows, and it keeps shifters in a semi-neutral position.
The GR Elite features Bontrager’s new Adventure Fit geometry that provides easy access to controls from any hand position. The GR Elite is the most flared bar from Bontrager to date, offering a 13-degree flare a 128mm drop, and a 75mm reach — aiming to keep the bar nimble in the challenging sectors and comfortable on the long hauls.
Lately, the new spin on gravel bars seems to be keeping the hand positions as close to neutral as possible while giving the rider enough flare to feel comfortable. The Bontrager GR Elite looks to split the difference allowing for the rider to keep a reasonably neutral setup while taking advantage of the flare for comfort and lower back ease.
Bontrager’s new GR Elite bars feature replaceable IsoZone EVA pads for those looking for another layer of comfort to help reduce road and gravel vibrations. Though alloy bars do not offer all the vibration qualities of carbon, the cost, weight, and stiffness are enough to roll the dice for this as your next gravel bar.
If you’re running Shimano GRX or any Di2 components, you’ll be stoked to know Bontrager’s GR Elite bars have fully integrated internal wire routing and are primed for Shimano Junction-A (bar end style) routing.
Bontrager GR Elite Specs:
- 13-degree flare allows for more control in the drops
- Replaceable IsoZone EVA pads while maintaining the original grip diameter
- Compatible with Shimano EW-RS910 bar end Junction-A for cleaner Di2 routing
- Laser-etched brake lever position lines for spot-on control setup
- Compatible with clip-on aero bars
- Price: $99
- Available Sizes: 38cm, 40cm, 42cm, and 44cm.
