Pro unveils the Vibe SL, a featherweight integrated handlebar

Pro has unveiled what they claim are the lightest integrated handlebars on the market with the Vibe SL. Shimano’s parts and accessories manufacturer say the new bars are 15 per cent lighter than the previous model. The new lighter and stronger bars were achieved using a new carbon manufacturing process.

The Pro Vibe SL uses high modulus carbon fibre combined with high strength fibres which allowed less resin to be used in the carbon layup. This change in carbon manufacturing allowed the weight of the bar to be lowered to 184 g for the compact bars and 209 g for the aero version. The reduction in weight didn’t compromise the strength of the bars. Pro claims the Vibe SL are stiffer than the previous version.

The Vibe SL bars have entry and exit ports for mechanical or Di2 shifting setups allowing for clean esthetics on the integrated system. They accept both mechanical and hydraulic brake cables as well.

In case of an impact, the bars use Innegra technology. Innegra is integrated into the carbon layup and helps the carbon retain its structure in the event of a strong impact like in a crash or fall. Innegra also gives the bars stiffness in areas subject to torsional forces from hard riding, tensional forces from fatigue and compression forces from impacts to make the Vibe SL last longer and help the rider go faster. The cable-integrated Vibe SL come in a compact geometry available in 38 cm, 40 cm and 42 cm. The aero bar with a flatter top for aerodynamics and narrow drops are available in 38 cm and 42 cm.