#3 on this list
Components Loam Carbon Handlebar
PNW
The PNW Components Loam Carbon Handlebar targets trail and all-mountain riders seeking an optimal balance of vibration damping, strength, and sensible geometry. PNW recognized the pitfalls of early oversized carbon bars and spent extensive development time tuning the carbon layup. Utilizing premium pre-preg carbon fiber, the bar is engineered with directional compliance in mind, intentionally filtering out high-frequency trail buzz without sacrificing the torsional rigidity needed for aggressive line-holding. On rough descents, the Loam Carbon does an exceptional job absorbing the constant micro-vibrations that cause hand numbness and forearm tightness over the course of a long ride. Reviewers highlight its forgiving feel through rock gardens, noting that it softens harsh feedback without delivering any unwanted flex during hard out-of-the-saddle sprinting or heavy G-out compressions. Weighing in at roughly 233 grams, it sits right in the sweet spot for a durable, gravity-rated composite bar. PNW opts for a slightly relaxed sweep profile (typically 5 degrees upsweep and 8 degrees backsweep) that aligns well with neutral wrist positions, though riders who prefer extreme ergonomic angles might find it relatively standard. At approximately $159, it undercuts several boutique carbon competitors while matching them in damping capability. The main limitation is that it is primarily offered in a 35mm clamp diameter, leaving riders running 31.8mm stems out of luck without replacing their cockpit hardware. **Highlights** - Tuned carbon layup provides noticeable damping of high-frequency trail vibrations. - Lightweight construction around 233 grams suitable for aggressive trail and enduro use. - Tested to stringent downhill safety standards for peace of mind in rough terrain. - Neutral, wrist-friendly geometry accommodates a broad range of cockpit setups. - Strong value proposition among premium carbon handlebars. **Watch-outs** - Limited to modern 35mm clamp setups, requiring a stem swap for 31.8mm users. - Moderate sweep profile may not satisfy riders requiring extreme backsweep ergonomics.
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#4 on this list
Components Speedway 35 Carbon Riser
Deity
The Deity Components Speedway 35 Carbon Riser is unapologetically built for aggressive enduro racers, bike park laps, and heavy-hitting downhill riding. While many carbon bars on the market attempt to maximize flex for all-day trail comfort, Deity engineered the Speedway 35 with a focus on strength, structural integrity, and uncompromising steering response under maximum physical load. Using a proprietary carbon layup and rigorous testing protocols, Deity created a bar designed to survive brutal impacts that would crack lesser carbon products. On the trail, the Speedway 35 delivers immense confidence when plowing through high-speed compressions, steep drops, and rutted-out turns. The bar exhibits virtually zero lateral or torsional twist, giving riders absolute authority over where their front tire tracks. Despite its burly, downhill-certified nature, Deity successfully avoided the brutal, bone-jarring harshness that plagued early 35mm carbon bars. It dampens surface trail buzz adequately, though it remains distinctly firmer and more supportive than flex-oriented models like the OneUp V2. At around 245 grams, it carries slightly more material than cross-country or light trail carbon bars, but the weight penalty is negligible given its gravity rating. The primary trade-off is rider fit: lighter riders or those searching specifically for maximum plushness to mitigate existing wrist injuries may find the Speedway too stiff for everyday, low-speed trail riding. **Highlights** - Downhill-certified carbon construction built for aggressive riding and heavy impacts. - Exceptional torsional stiffness ensures precise front-wheel tracking under heavy loads. - Proprietary composite layup prevents the harshness typical of rigid 35mm cockpits. - High-durability finish with detailed alignment markers for stems and control levers. - Backed by Deity's extensive gravity-oriented testing and development. **Watch-outs** - Stiffer feel may be overly firm for lightweight riders or low-speed trail cruising. - Price sits at the higher end of the carbon spectrum at around $180.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Components Loam Carbon Handlebar | Components Speedway 35 Carbon Riser |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Pre-preg unidirectional carbon fiber | Unidirectional Carbon Composite |
| Weight | 233 grams | 245 grams |
| Clamp Diameter | 35mm | 35mm |
| Geometry | 5° upsweep, 8° backsweep | — |
| Approximate Price | $159 | — |
| Intended Discipline | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro | — |
| Target Category | — | Enduro, Freeride, Downhill |
| Price Point | — | Approximately $180 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Components Loam Carbon Handlebar
- Directional compliance effectively reduces high-frequency trail buzz
- Competitive 233-gram weight suited for demanding trail and enduro use
- Priced substantially lower than most comparable carbon alternatives
- Neutral 8-degree backsweep fits most standard riding positions well
- Offered strictly in a 35mm clamp diameter
- Limited ergonomic variation compared to high-sweep alternatives
- Fewer rise and color options than some boutique brands
Components Speedway 35 Carbon Riser
- Downhill-certified composite strength withstands aggressive impacts
- Exceptional torsional rigidity provides razor-sharp steering accuracy
- Effectively filters high-frequency vibration without feeling completely dead
- Clear, detailed alignment markings simplify cockpit setup and trimming
- Noticeably firmer vertical profile than flex-tuned trail handlebars
- Carries a slight weight penalty at approximately 245 grams
- Can increase fatigue for lighter riders on prolonged rough descents
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.