Ritchey WCS Butano handlebar review

Aluminium bars created for ‘mixed terrain riding, with a shallow drop and gentle flare that puts them firmly in the all-road category

Ritchey WCS Butano bars
(Image credit: Luke Friend)
Cycling Weekly Verdict

The WCS Butano handlebars are perfectly suited for all-road riding and gravel adventures. They’ll appeal to those who aren’t concerned with maximising flare but still favour a short and shallow bar that offers additional width in the drops without creating an extreme lever position. Pretty lightweight, they excel over rougher terrain and longer rides when comfort is the most important factor. All told, the Butano is a stellar offering from Ritchey.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Allow for multiple comfortable hand positions

  • +

    Flare adds control without creating awkward lever angle

  • +

    Suitable for both road and gravel use

  • +

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    No recessed area to 'hide' cables

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Some product descriptions carry a little more gravitas than others. The WCS Butano is one such component, named as they are after Tom Ritchey’s favourite home trails. 

It’s fair to say that Tom was exploring the limits of drop-bar bikes long before most. His appreciation and understanding of riding gravel and dirt means that any product he designs for this intended use is one born from years of experience.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1