Nat Bromhead
PRO have released a new handlebar and stem system, the futuristic looking Vibe Evo.
Aerodynamicly optimised, the carbon bar features an integral stem, hose and cable integration along with top section grips which transition into the hoods.
The modern styling, with the stem sweeping into the top section before curving into the hoods and down to the compact drops, hints at comfort and functionality.
The unit boasts a weight of 390g and is comprised of T700 carbon construction. There are five hand grip options – on the tops, in the pursuit position, corner grip, on the hoods and on the drops.
The bar/ stem combination features futuristic styling and internal cable routing.
Interestingly, the drops can either be wrapped with handlebar tape or a new, specially designed tape also available from PRO. Ergonomic Drop-Grip (PRGP0087) is constructed from a high-grade rubber with a textured finish that ensures both comfort and grip, say the company.
The replaceable grips on the tops of the Vibe Evo handlebars negate the need for wrapping the tops, meaning that a single roll of bartape is enough to wrap both drops.
Entry and exit ports to the bars allow shifter cables and hoses to run through the inside of the handlebars and out through the stem.
A Simpler, Cleaner Cockpit
Completing the seamless integration is the attachment point for a forward GPS/ computer mount. Two fittings on the underside of the bar/stem area, provide a fixing point for bike computer mounts (or other mountable bags and accessories) to integrate into the handlebar’s aerodynamic design.
PRO Product Development Team Manager Mark Kikkert said designers looked at the cockpit as a complete system, not just a handlebar and stem, when starting out with the Vibe Evo.
“We took into consideration the placement of brake/shift levers and how the shape of the handlebar could provide more comfort and efficiency,” he said.
“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.
He said being a one-piece design, the handlebar is stiff enough for all-out sprint efforts. “This means the handlebar can suit a lot of different riders,” he added.
“Finally 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 offers an aero and stealthy cable-free look.
The bars include 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.
PRO Vibe Evo handlebars will be available from retailers from July 2021 onwards and the PRO Ergonomic Drop Grips are expected to be available from November 2021.
The bar/ stem combo will retail for $990.
