Adding to their growing collection of products, PNW Components can now add a handlebar to that list. But above and beyond the usual details of rise, bend, and sweep, PNW focused on finding the right aluminum alloy to create what they see as the perfect bar.
PNW says from the start, they knew they wanted to make an alloy bar. Using the right material can result in an impressively light bar, and they feel that the durability and lower price of an aluminum bar better matches who they are as a brand.
But as many are aware, all alloys are not created equal. PNW wanted to create a bar that was lightweight, strong, but also not so rigid that ride quality suffered. After testing a number of samples, they settled on 7075. While 6000 series alloys are some of the most commonly used, 7000 series offer the potential for higher strength – but often with a higher cost. Just as important is the heat treating process, which again, PNW tested thoroughly in terms of how it affects a handlebar. Their findings were that a T6 treated bar resulted in a harsher ride, so they instead went for a T73 process that they feel offers a better ride and stronger bar.
Adding to the list of details they feel strongly about, PNW is only offering the Range handlebar in 31.8. Since ride quality is a primary concern, they feel that with the proper alloy they were able to get the bar strength where it needed to be without resorting to 35mm.
The end result is a 780mm wide bar with a 31.8mm clamp that weighs in at 300g. Currently offered in one shape, the bar has a 19mm rise and 5° upsweep with a 9° bend. Maybe the best feature is that they kept the price of the bar to $59, which should make the Range quite competitive.
