Based on feedback from top fitters and pro cyclists, Zipp decided to re-evaluate the shape and reach of their Service Course bars. New for 2014, each handlebar has its own drop shape to meet the performance and fit needs of every rider. Each handlebar’s numeric name is derived from the bar’s reach, which is the horizontal distance from the center of the top of the bar (or center of stem clamp of bar) to the center of the brake perch.
The fitters told Zipp that more riders desired to have a flat position from the top of the handlebar transitioning right into the flats of the levers.
The crucial fit metric of reach influences a rider’s overall position as well as their access to the brake levers. Zipp has also refined each bar’s ramp angle for a more natural transition from the top of the bar to the brake hoods, which minimizes the need for up-rotated bars. The result of all this innovation is better fit and ergonomics, whether you’re in the drops or up on the hoods.
Service Course SL lineup:
Service Course SL-70™
The SL-70 is the bike fitter’s go-to bar. The short reach to the hoods allows a proper fit, without compromising stem length and steering control.
Service Course SL-70 Ergo™
Features the same compact reach and drop dimensions as the SL-70 and also features a contoured top section for a natural ergonomic grip on the bar tops.
Service Course SL-80™
The SL-80 allows a neutral wrist position on the drops and a flat brake-hood transition even for comfort and efficiency on the hoods. Rounded bar top is clip-on compatible.
Service Course SL-88™
The SL-88 is the traditional road racer’s bar, allowing a “long and low” position in the drops or a large horizontal flat to rest straight down upon.
As part of the redesign of their bars, Zipp also looked at their stems. The result of their analysis is the all new SL Sprint stem with the highest stiffness-to-weight ratio of any stem on the market. It’s designed using SRAM’s ExogramTM technology, the same used in SRAM RED cranks. The SL Sprint was designed with feedback from top pros to meet the unrelenting demands of Grand Tour sprinters while not adding any excess weight to the bike.
Weight: 165g (100cm)
Angle: -12°
Size: 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140mm
Material: Unidirectional carbon
Hardware: Stainless steel with Torx® T25 heads
Diameter: 31.8mm MSRP: $250/€226
Retail availability: October 2013
Ron Callahan is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.