Is bigger really better? Obviously, that depends on the subject, but when it comes to 35.0mm handlebars PNW has been patiently waiting. Not for the industry to come to a consensus, but the company claims to have held off on making a larger diameter bar until it was something they wanted to ride themselves.
That meant making good on the promises of a lighter and ultimately more comfortable bar. PNW also claims the new Gen 3 is that very bar — but don’t worry, it’s available in 31.8mm, too.
Why 35mm? Every proponent has claimed that it allow for more precise steering and the potential for some weight savings for wide bars. PNW says that by using a 2014-T73 aluminum alloy and extended butting profiles for the tubing, they have delivered.
While the previous Range bar measured in at 780mm wide, the new bar is a full 800mm in width. It’s also claimed to be 25g lighter at 310g for the 35mm and 314g for the 31.8mm (we should have a bar in hand soon to get the actual weight).
Fans of the original Range should get along well with the Gen 3 as it uses similar relaxed geometry for shredding comfort. You’ll find a 10° back sweep and 5° up sweep with a 30mm rise.
As mentioned, the bars are available in either 35.0mm or 31.8mm, each with an 800mm width. The bars are offered in five colors and sell for $69 each — available now.
New Range Stem
To go along with those new bars, PNW is also offering a new Range Stem — also in 31.8 or 35mm. Fully CNC Machined from 6061 aluminum, the redesigned stem is 40g lighter and comes in 40mm or 50mm lengths.
Better yet, they will apparently include an integrated, removable aluminum stem mount to carry lights or cameras. The move to aluminum is an update, and is supposedly more durable.
The stems are not available yet, but are expected to arrive in early august. To get yours ASAP, you can pre-order it now for $79.
