COCKPIT OPTIMIZATION
While many tri bikes now come with integrated cockpits, those looking to optimize their aero position and comfort might want to tinker with that set up with some different extensions. For those who are setting up a bike that doesn’t come with an integrated bar, adding one of these aero setups will help you hit some speedy bike splits this season.
Profile Design 43 ASC Aerobar Extensions
$391/US$285
Looking to upgrade your aero bars and want the cool looking, sorry, want the benefits of a carbon-fibre bar that cups your forearms for all the speed and comfort benefits? Of course you do, but many of the options cost more than many of our bank accounts can handle. Not anymore, though, thanks to the Profile Design 43ASC bars. The optimized shape puts the grip section at an 87 degree rise with a 43-degree angle, while the body of the extension sweeps outwards to hug your arm. The result is a lightweight (230 g) super-strong, aerodynamic bar that adds enough comfort and support to make staying in the aero position that much easier.
Zipp Vuka Shift AXS 90
US$915
The Vuka Shift AXS 90 is much more than just an extension—it houses your SRAM Red or Force eTap AXS shifting system. These bars put your shift controls and head unit in a neat package—a seamless solution to integrate all the components for your electronic shifting system. The 90 mm rise puts your hands in a comfortable, aero position to add speed to the mix, too.
Vision Speed Extensions
$351/US$282
Coming in at under 200 g, these lightweight aerobar extensions combine both ergonomics and aerodynamics to ensure you’ll be both speedy and comfortable in your aero tuck. The full carbon construction adds to the strength, while the S-Bend construction puts your hands in the optimal position for everything from short, hard efforts to long stretches down on the bars.
TriRig Alpha One Carbon Bar/Stem
FROM US$1,100
Designed to provide easy adjustability, adjusting your stack height with these bars comes easy as you only have to loosen one bolt, and you can even make tilt adjustments on the fly. There are 21 different positions for your elbow pads, so you’ll be able to dial in the optimal position. There are five integrated accessory mount bosses, so you’ll be able to add a bottle cage, computer or other storage with ease. All this comes on a bar that’s super-fast and UCI legal.
SpeedBar
€3,999
You’ll see some of the sport’s biggest names using these bars and you can get some, too, if you’re ready to open your check book. These bars support your arms over their entire length and are available in both custom-made and tailor-made options. The “custom-made” option requires close-up pictures and measurements to design extensions designed specifically for your position. The “tailor-made” option involves a plaster cast of your arms and elbows. Both will include your choice of bottle and computer mounts to ensure you’re dialling in your perfect setup.—KM