Zipp

Service Course Handlebar

Zipp handlebars have subtle shaping that separates them from the pack, and makes them comfortable, light, and strong. Like its carbon fiber counterparts, the Zipp Service Course Alloy Handlebars have a constant taper from the 31.8mm clamp area in the center of the bar to the 24.2mm diameter at the top bend. We've long been fans of this shaping, and Zipp indulges our sensibility for toughness and value by giving us access to such intuitive shaping in an aluminum bar.

The Service Course Alloy Handlebar is just a few grams heavier than the Service Course SL version. However, the bonus is that you get the same two shape options at a lower cost. The Ergo version has a drop angle of only 20 degrees. What's the net effect? You can position your shift/brake levers in the high-and-Belgian style that we prefer. Additionally, you'll gain a smooth transition from the bar onto the drops. Furthermore, the Ergo bar has a dual radius curve in the drops. So, you'll benefit from the longer, flatter hand surface. We'd be tempted call it an anatomic bend, but be aware that the bend shape is, thankfully, subtle and not overly curvy like most anatomic bars of the past. The 70mm reach, plus the short radius behind the clamp area, simplify the act of getting the crook of your hand 'locked' into position for a solid feel in the drops. This also eases reach to the brake levers, and with a 128mm drop, the lower portion of the bars are also accessible.

Zipp also produces the Service Course Alloy Handlebar in a Traditional Bend with an 80mm reach and 1250mm drop. If you detest anatomic bars of any sort, but you're looking for a bar with a modest drop, then this is the bar for you. With a slightly steeper drop angle than the Short and Shallow version, this Traditional Bend will give you a bit more curve in the transition to the hoods.

The Zipp Service Course Alloy Handlebar is available in the two aforementioned bends. Each bend option is also available four widths from 40 to 46cm (measured outside-outside). It's worth a mention that the drops on these bars angle out at 4 degrees in order to make your wrists more comfortable for long days in the saddle.