The new PRO Vibe Evo handlebar is designed to take style, aerodynamic optimisation and ergonomic comfort to a new level, according to Shimano’s house component brand.
It has already scored two pro wins with Deceuninck-Quick Step’s Fabio Jakobsen at the Tour of Wallonie.
(Image credit: PRO)
The Vibe Evo - which will cost £599.99 in the UK, making it PRO’s flagship road handlebar - features an integral stem, hose and cable integration - all of which are standard on modern ‘cockpits’, but what’s new is the rubber grips on the tops, which don’t require bar tape, and the fairing-like sections behind the hoods which are designed to smooth the airflow.
The angular shape is also very distinctive and unlike the curvier designs we're more used to seeing.
PRO claims a competitive weight of 390g for the Vibe Evo, which is made from T700 carbon. For comparison the Vision Metron 6D, a popular aftermarket bar in the pro peloton, weighs 427g.
(Image credit: PRO)
But there’s no claim of saved watts for the uniquely shaped section behind the hoods and no mention of wind tunnel testing against the competition at all.
(Image credit: PRO)
The drops can either be wrapped with regular handlebar tape or they can take PRO’s specially designed Ergonomic Drop-Grip (pictured) which PRO says ensures great control in all weather conditions with high-grade rubber and textured finish. Using regular bar tape, just one roll is enough for wrapping the drops only, while the grips on the tops of the bar are replaceable.
The Vibe Evo of course has an attachment point for an out-front computer mount.
The bars allow +/- 2 degrees of stem angle adjustment with a 1 1/8 shim. Fitting of 1 1/4 steerer tubes is possible with the removal of the shim. The bars come in widths of 38, 40 and 42cm with stem lengths of 105, 115 and 125mm.
(Image credit: PRO)
PRO product development team manager Mark Kikkert said: “We looked at the cockpit as a complete system, not just a handlebar and stem. We took into consideration the placement of brake/shift levers and how the shape of the handlebar could provide a more seamless transition for more comfort.
"There’s ergonomic features for comfortable riding all day long, aerodynamic features with the top shape, and a provision for holding an aerodynamic/pursuit position on the bike. Plus being a one-piece design, the handlebar is plenty stiff enough for all-out sprint efforts. This means the handlebar can suit a lot of different riders."
(Image credit: PRO)
“Finally," said Kikkert," the integration of the top grip is a unique way to offer comfort and control, while simultaneously keeping the aerodynamic profile and cutting down on the total system weight compared to using regular handlebar tape.
"With the new Vibe Evo we are entering a new era for integrated cockpits that PRO has been offering for over 15 years."
The bar allows +/- 2 degrees of stem angle adjustment with a 1 1/8 shim. Fitting of 1 1/4 steerer tubes is possible with the removal of the shim.
Bar width options are 38, 40 and 42cm with stem lengths of 105, 115 and 125mm.
PRO Vibe Evo handlebars will be available from retailers from July 2021 onwards. PRO Ergonomic Drop Grips available from November 2021 onwards.
It will be priced in the UK at £599.99.
Read more about road handlebars in our buyer's guide.
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Simon Smythe is a hugely experienced cycling tech writer, who has been writing for Cycling Weekly since 2003. Until recently he was our senior tech writer. In his cycling career Simon has mostly focused on time trialling with a national medal, a few open wins and his club's 30-mile record in his palmares. These days he spends most of his time testing road bikes, or on a tandem doing the school run with his younger son.
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