Product news: With the new Pro Vibe Evo, Shimano's in-house manufacturer of add-on parts is raising the issue of integration and ergonomics when it comes to handlebars to a new level. Here you can find out why you need less handlebar tape with the new Aero Cockpit from Pro.
Attentive cycling fans may have seen the new Pro Vibe Evo handlebars on Fabio Jakobsen's bike last week when he won two stages of the Tour de Wallonie. Pro is now officially presenting its new aero cockpit and not only wants to play at the forefront in terms of aerodynamics, but also wants to be on top in terms of integration and ergonomic comfort.
Check out this post on Instagram
In addition to the saddle and pedals, the handlebars are one of three contact points between bike and rider and are therefore much more important than is often thought. In addition to classic control over the bike, the demands on modern handlebars have increased enormously these days. The starting point in the development of the new Pro Vibe EVO was to design the handlebars according to the concept of offering the best experience for sporty use. The aero cockpit has a light but strong T700 carbon construction with 390 grams and five comfortable grip options. That's right, five, because by widening the top link, you also enable a position called "corner grip".
The various inlet and outlet openings on the handlebars allow shift cables and lines to be routed cleanly through the inside of the handlebars and through the stem. This gives you the best integration and an attractive, clean look. The seamless integration is rounded off by the attachment point for a front bike computer mount. Two rivets sit on the underside of the handlebar/stem area and provide an attachment point for bike computer mounts (or other mountable bags and accessories) to integrate with the handlebar's aerodynamic design.
The lower handlebars can either be wrapped with bar tape or you can use Pro's specially designed Ergonomic Drop-Grip, which ensures excellent control in all weather conditions. Made from high-quality rubber, the structured surface ensures comfort and the best grip. The interchangeable grips on the tops of the Vibe Evo bars also eliminate the need to wrap around the top bars.
“We looked at the cockpit as a complete system, not just the handlebars and stem. We considered the placement of the brake/shift levers and how the shape of the handlebars could offer a more seamless transition for more comfort. There are ergonomic features for comfortable riding, aerodynamic features with the top shape, and a provision for maintaining an aerodynamic position on the bike. In addition, the handlebar is one piece and stiff enough for powerful sprints. This means that the handlebar is suitable for many different riders. Finally, the integration of the top handle is a unique way to provide comfort and control while maintaining the aerodynamic profile and reducing overall system weight in comparison. With the new Pro Vibe Evo we are entering a new era for integrated cockpits that Pro has been offering for over 15 years.” - Pro Product Development Team Manager Mark Kikkert
The Pro Vibe Evo is available in widths of 38, 40 and 42 cm with stem lengths of 105, 115 and 125 mm and will be available from July 2021. The Ergonomic Drop Grips will be available from November 2021.