OneUp Components has recreated the patented oval shape of its premium carbon handlebar in an aluminum offering, bringing the price of this additional cockpit compliance down to a more-easy-to-swallow $89.50 USD. It’s a great handlebar, and it even made it onto our list of the best mountain bike handlebars.
OneUp Aluminum Handlebar
Unique to OneUp’s handlebars is the ovalized section that exists between the 35mm clamp region and the 22.2mm control-clamping region. The profile allows for additional flex in this area, versus a standard bar that is traditionally circular in this zone.
I’ve been lucky enough to benefit from the OneUp Carbon Bar for some time, now. I’m kind of spoiled with it, in a way, because whenever I have to switch to a test bike with a standard aluminum or carbon bar, I often feel the unwelcome return of arm pump over longer descents. I really appreciate the extra comfort that comes with a bit of vertical compliance.
Until now, you would’ve been required to part with $159.50 USD in order to benefit from the ovalised bar profile, but the addition of the One Oval Aluminum Handlebar brings the price down to something far more palatable. Deflection of the alloy bar at a given weight is just 6% less than that for the carbon offering.
The OneUp Alloy Bar ships at 800mm wide, and weighs 341 grams on our Park Tool scale. That weight pertains to the 35mm rise option, which for now is the only option. However, August 2023 will see the inclusion of a 20mm riser bar of the same oval design.
The 7050-T76 aluminum bar is intended for gravity riding, first and foremost. It is rated for downhill riding, with ASTM Cat. 5 and EFBE TRI-TEST® GR certifications.
Markings are provided on the bar ends to help riders in cutting the bar down to their preferred width; 740mm is the minimum width approved by OneUp. The maximum clamp width is 80mm.
OneUp Direct Mount Stem
In conjunction with the launch of the OneUp Oval Alloy Bar is the addition of a Direct Mount Stem to the BC-based brand’s portfolio. This one has a clamp diameter of 35mm, a length of 45mm and a 0mm rise, though 5mm and 10mm rise will be possible come August when specific spacer kits become available.
Additional specs as follows:
- Claimed weight: 155g
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Finish: Fine shot peen
- Color Options: Black
- MSRP: $99.50 USD / $129.50 CAD / £99.50 GBP / €114.50 EU
OneUp offer free shipping worldwide.
