Submitted by
b3rnard
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
too many to list
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
refuse to advertise
Strengths:
Very light-weight composite material. Very sturdy, gives you a really positive steering feel. In my opinion the composite material absorbs most of the vibration, or could a combination of that and the grips itself.
Weaknesses:
In about a month-ish I found a stress fracture on the bar - the part where it tapers, the rise. It started off a few mm long and gradually became about 1/2 long.
Similar Products Used:
None, this is my first Carbon/composite handle-bar
Bike Setup:
2007 Specialized SJ FSR.
Bottom Line:
It's definitely a very light piece and sturdy HB. Overall I am happy with it, EASTON replaced the defective bar immediately. It has a 10 year warranty, and that gives me some peace of mind in-case it breaks again :)
I am giving it a value of 4 Chilis, for its 10 year warranty. 3 Chilis overall because it broke within a month of use.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Core_Shot
a
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: August 2, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Shop Employee Purchase
Strengths:
Kinda light (j/k), strong
Weaknesses:
a wee bit flexy
Similar Products Used:
Race Face Deus, stock bar
Bike Setup:
Stumpy, full XT, easton and thomson
Bottom Line:
Damn that thing is light. I'd like something a little stiffer, though. That being the case, I probably should have gotten the 31.8 version, instead of the 25.4. Can't blame the bar for that!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stefan Aichele
a Cross Country Rider
from Waterloo, ON, CANADA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Frankenstein
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
web cyclery
Strengths:
Strong design, cool look, light!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
The flight bar
Bike Setup:
Norco full suspension with Bomber MCR1, Race Face crank and XTR drive train, Tune custom wheels with Hutchinson tires.
Bottom Line:
Can't beat Easton!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Petaluma, CA USA Date Reviewed: October 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Annadel
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
nice, light, sexy lookin.
Weaknesses:
I heard rumors of them breaking, but it would seem you would have to be really using these bars for DH or serious freeriding and land bad to break em. I use em right so I would say none.
Similar Products Used:
FSA DH200
Bike Setup:
'04 Marin Attack Trail, '07 Vanilla RLC, '04 Float RL, Hayes HFX9's, xt front Sram x9 Rear.
Bottom Line:
Be good to them and they be great to you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phill
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Well made,nice length,strong,light weight.
Weaknesses:
Uncomfortable bend!
Similar Products Used:
About four or five other Easton bars of various rises.
Bike Setup:
Motolite,Hugi/Mavic 717,Thomson,XT/X9.
Bottom Line:
My comments pertain to the 06 lo rise 31.8 dia EC70 carbon monkeylite bar. As stated in "strengths"most of what I have to say is positive. However (for reasons best known to Easton)on this particular bar(The 31.8) they have changed the upward bend to about double the standard 4 degrees making for a much less comfotable bend.The standard bend for their 1 inch monkeylite is 8 degrees rearward and 4degrees upward bend. The most annoying thing I find (apart from less comfort)is that no where on their website do they allude to this fact.Great bar shame about the bend!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from pa Date Reviewed: August 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Stiff. Nice bend-angle. Light. Perfect width. Very tough, beat the snot out of these pups on the rigid SS. If they can takes hits from a rigid fork, they'll take anything a suspesion fork can throw at it.
Weaknesses:
None. Well, it ain't cheap.
Similar Products Used:
EA70
Bike Setup:
Rigid SS
Bottom Line:
I liked this bar so much I got another for my 2nd SS. At first I didn't like the up sweep-bend. After a few rides I grew to love it. I have a hard time riding another bar. With a fat pair of OURYs these are the ticket for rigid SS riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ralphie
a Weekend Warrior
from Yakima WA Date Reviewed: August 21, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
light and strong, vibration damping the real deal.
Weaknesses:
was expensive, now cheap. Flexy compared to DH bars, stiffer than most XC bars.
Similar Products Used:
alu and steel bars
Bike Setup:
Titus Supermoto, FOX, Thompson
Bottom Line:
Finally cracked these a few weeks ago. I had converted to a 5"/6" FS singlespeed. I used to have very powerful legs (800+ lb sled was workout wieght), and even though my muscle is nicely marbled now ;p I can still crakn like hell. Basically, I was pushing a 36/15 (yup 15! I was using my 9sp cog) singlespeed uphill. Ended up cracking both sides of the bar at the brake mount, underneath the bar. Otherwise, awesome bar. I believe this bar should be changed every 2-3 years, like most bars. I liked the fact that it cracked without snapping, I have seen aluminum bars snap along grain failure weak spots in the metal. Jagged metal to thoat= bad idea. 5 Chilis for an excellent product. (5 for value since you can buy them dirt cheap now)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Basil Chua
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore Date Reviewed: June 28, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Strengths:
Lightweight and balanced weighted feel.
Similar Products Used:
Alu stock bars
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC Team
Bottom Line:
Myth: It reduces trail vibrations and makes your XC ride enjoyable. Fact: True.
Myth: The balanced feel offers you improved control. Fact: True.
Myth: It's pricey. Fact: True.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeffs888
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA, USA Date Reviewed: March 26, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$49.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
vibration dampening properties, light weight
Weaknesses:
I wish there was an option for a slightly narrower version
Similar Products Used:
NA
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper '05
Bottom Line:
These have been a great upgrade. Wasn't sure how much vibration and impact reduction I would really feel on a ride... but WOW, these things work. Your hands are always in contact with the handlebars and I found with my stock handlebar my shoulders and back were taking quite a beating. Reading the reviews it seemed that the jury was still out on exactly how much this handlebar would help... but boy have I felt the difference.
Makes my riding a whole lot less painful and a whole lot more fun. Have had no issue with swapping out grips or bar ends (Cane Creek locking and Ergo Control II), but I've let my LBS do those installs to make sure the tension is just right.
All in all these handlebars are fantastic and I would definitely recomned them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred Sled
a Weekend Warrior
from Spawn Ranch, CA Date Reviewed: July 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Your Mom
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Super light, stiff, cool factor
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Typical aluminum bars, riser and flat
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar, XC/Trail setup
Bottom Line:
This bar right out of the box is just cool, the look and feel of it. Then when you mount it up and ride, the stiffness and control are perfection. The fact that they look bad ass clamped in a polished stem, doesn't hurt either. I have these on both of my bikes. The retail price on these is kind of extreme.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Some_Dude
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Rosa CA Date Reviewed: June 3, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
CBO
Strengths:
Light Strong Flexes enough on little stuff
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Titec Hellbent
Bike Setup:
2003 SC bullit, Pike Team Air, Hayes 8", XTR, 5th Ele, Race Face Northshore
Bottom Line:
Great bar. This thing has taken a few crashes into trees at 15+ MPH and keeps on ticking. It is a great bar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: May 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Strengths:
Weight, durabilty
Weaknesses:
N/A
Similar Products Used:
aluminum
Bike Setup:
Bullit
Bottom Line:
Bought these 4/22/99 and they have been a set and forget part ever since. I'm over 200lbs. and ride fairly aggro. These have survived 3 cracked frames (not the Bullit), North Star, Moab, Durango ect. and more crashes than I can recall. I'm replaceing these 24s w some 26s :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony Grace
a Cross Country Rider
from Perth, WA,Australia Date Reviewed: April 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Goat Track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
Strong and light, some give to take some shock out when needed . Looks good on the bike.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Other Easton, Titec & Giant
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS 3 frame, Easton bars, stem & post, SRAM Rockets with XT Derailuers, MAG+, 04 Zoke Marathon SL 120's & CC Headset.
Bottom Line:
I purchased the bars as a combo with the Easton MG60 stem for US$55 a really good deal. When I got them I was worried about the strength of them and all that + the possible corrosion problems with MG60. I also weigh 100kgs or 220lbs. After reading all the comments I did not make one scratch on the bars fitting them and I have punished these bars over all sorts of XC terrain and some drops I never saw coming. They have been great highly recommend them.I run profiles bar ends on them and these have saved my hands and taken some knocks with no ill effects on the bars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clay
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, Tx, USA Date Reviewed: February 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Hill Ranch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Unbelievably light handlebar. Perfect width and rise. It hasn't broken.
Weaknesses:
It cost alot of money even on sale. Shows scratch marks pretty easy.
Similar Products Used:
Titec Alum riser bar.
Bike Setup:
Haro werx
Bottom Line:
As the weight on my bike rose due to adding disc brakes and tubeless tires I swapped the OEM bar with the EC70 riser to see if I could lighten it up a little. The bar itself is very light but the part is so small I really couldn't see any difference. I like the bar more than the alum. because of the lack of flex. The LBS said that the EC90 was quite a bit wider and the rise was greater so I went with the EC70. I got a huge scratch on it trying to mount handlebar lights but it has survived some hits to trees and crashes. I recommend the bars. They just feel a little different under your hands.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clem Hobbs
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: December 14, 2004
Nice lightweight bar with perfect sweep and feel to it, holds up well to crashes. For strictly, and I mean NO drops, xc type riding I would recommend it.
Unfortunately I've cracked two of them using different stems (two & four bolt designs). I received my second bar after getting the first replaced under warranty. Fast & efficient customer service. I've also seen other people experience the same problem, look up a thread in the Turner forum quite a while ago, includes pics.
Both bars started showing cracks along the top of the bar, to the inside of the first upsweep. At the time I was doing some drops & jumps but nothing more than 3-4ft or so. Rather than have the bar fail, the cracks spooked me enough to bail on it and I replaced it with an Easton aluminumn bar as I like the feel of their design.
If you're into any form of riding that involves drops or jumps I'd pass on these bars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Metz
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore Date Reviewed: November 5, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$160.00
Strengths:
Skin Light, Dampens Vibrations and it lks darn kewl.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Easton EA70 High Rise, Answer Protaper.
Bike Setup:
Scott Comp Racing 04, Full XTR, SID Race 04
Bottom Line:
For those of you weight weenies who like your MTB's to loose that few grams. Get it. U will feel that vibration dampening in this bar is prior to wad ur freakin riding on. The dampenings on speed bumps are gd. For those of you who got these bars cracked, bent, broken, dented, spiritually possessed or wat-so-ever.. i think u've either clamped it 2 hard and ur clamp-point is not exactly center OR ur they way u ride simply sucks. Professional MTB racers have used these bars for competition on the same bike even for training. They dont seem to have probs with it. If ur getting more aggressive on ur style of riding(etc, Downhill)..dun freakin use this bar..get Alu. If u tell me, u bent, break, dent this bar while riding on rd..i'll tell u, Ur Simply Crap. 4 Chilis Each..not really outstanding. But a great product from Easton. Cheers,
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: November 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
jenson
Strengths:
Weight, stiffness, durability, dampening of road vibration
Weaknesses:
price
Similar Products Used:
titec
Bike Setup:
Burner, Marta SLs, MX comp w/ETA, King hubs, headset, X317 hoops, CX Ray spokes, this bar, Ultegra cogs, XT shifters, XTR derailleurs, Turbine LPs, freeride BB, Rocket Stealth saddle, WTB grips, Titec Ti seatpost, Z-Max tires, Ultralight tubes
Bottom Line:
I bought this bar because of the hype surrounding it, because I wanted to shave a little weight, because of the hype about the vibration absorption. All that being said, I do like my bar a lot. At the same time I don't find it to be a wisest purchase on my bike.
Unlike road cycling, mountain biking has very little high frequency low amplitude vibration (tarmac/black top caused vibration), so unless I ride my bike around town, the vibration dampening is hard to notice. The extra headache when installing it in the stem and when installing brake levers and shifters isn't worth it either. The wight savings can be counted in grams over a good aluminum bar at a premium price hike.
Finally, I do have to give it some props on durability. I've taken some nasty hits, which shattered my shifters, ripped patches of skin off my body, and the bar seems nearly unfazed. It is also a lot stiffer than my old titec aluminum handlebars.
The bottom line is, if you got the dough, go get one, if you don't, you really ain't missing much. Spend the money you save on good spokes (like Sapim CX Ray) or rims, because the only part of your bike where the weight really plays a role is your wheels. And the further from the center of wheel rotation the more crucial weight saving is.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
won suh
a
from mammoth lakes Date Reviewed: August 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Dampens vibration without loosing feel. Superlight
Weaknesses:
Can snap, can be noisy. Pricey
Similar Products Used:
All sorts of aluminum bars
Bike Setup:
SC Heckler w/ Fox Vanilla Fork, 5th element air, avid juicys and xt parts
Bottom Line:
This bar dampens vibration like no aluminum bar I've ever ridden and yet is responsive. I have the luxury of being a light rider so breakage is not as much a factor. Do not use this bar if you are anywhere near 2 bills or ride real heavy on your bike (you know who you are). Otherwise, any cross country/trail rider will appreciate this handlebar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al
a Cross Country Rider
from mpls Date Reviewed: July 31, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Light, Durable, Absorbs Vibrations
Weaknesses:
Price
Bike Setup:
SC Superlight
Bottom Line:
The bars came stock on my 01' Supelight. This is the 4th year of service with no issues. Like everyone else I was paranoid about the durability of the bars. But, since getting the bike, I've changed everything on the bars (myself): brake levers, shifters, grips and even squeezed the angled riser bars through the small opening of a one piece stem without incident.
On trail they've survived a few nice crashes, one was a bar dig that bent my Avid brake lever. The carbon composite bar is very stiff and is good at absorbing the high frequency vibrations the front shock can't.
I got mine stock, but if ever building a high end xc bike would be tops on my parts list. Retail is around a $100, could get 3 pr of aluminum bars on sale, so I have to dock ol' Easton a star on price otherwise 5 overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from LA Date Reviewed: May 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
anyone anywhere
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
$100.00
Strengths:
Absorbs a lot of vibration downhill. They are LIGHT. They have helped take me to another level. I have crashed a couple of times with them so far with no apparent damage.
Weaknesses:
None so far. They take a little time getting used to as far as body geometry.
Bike Setup:
Nothing fancy.
Bottom Line:
Let the Easton dealer install them. They're worth the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pete
a Cross Country Rider
from santa rosa Date Reviewed: April 23, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Smooths out high frequency bumps, Strength and Customer Support
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager 118 Ti
Bike Setup:
SoulCraft Option 3, XTR, CK headset/hubs, Mavic rims...
Bottom Line:
These handlebars are sweet. And what makes them sweeter is the "no-hassle" customer service at Easton. After almost 2 years of riding, my first pair of riser bars had developed a hairline crack about an inch right from the stem. I wasn't sure if it was safe or not to ride it so I called Easton and they told me to mail it in and they would check it out. Ten days later, I had a new pair of handlebars delivered to my house. I'm happy with Easton.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a
from Anaheim Hills, ca Date Reviewed: March 12, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Light and strong. Looks if you are into that. Vibration dampening.
Weaknesses:
None.
Bottom Line:
I've been running Easton Carbons for a number of years on a number of bikes. I love 'em. At first I was nervous and had lengthy conversations with Easton regarding their testing and strength rating. While impressed, I was still skeptical.
No longer.
I have them on two bikes and have stacked up on both, not to mention the other bikes I have sold and the bars are still holding. On my last bike build I was swapping the bars from one to another. I noticed "scarring" on the surface of the bar from where the brake lever rotated in a crash. To be safe I replaced them.
Out of curiosity, I tood this "damaged" bar out back and decided to have some fun. I smacked it into a concrete slab, nothing happened. I took it to a cinderblock wall and it still held. Then I started slamming it on the edge of a cinderblock and still couldn't get a complete break. Yes, I fractured it a bit with about the tenth blow, but that was abmormal abuse.
Long and short of it is that these bars are great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared
a
from St George UT Date Reviewed: February 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Gooseberry Mesa, JEM
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Bicycles Unlimited
Strengths:
Best Bars In the world, Hello Lifetime warenty!!!
Weaknesses:
None that I know of
Similar Products Used:
DO I really have to list that
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Gemini 1000 lefty max ti, sycrose ti post, tarrantula 2x9 cranks, xtr bb, WTB saddle, Time ATAC pedals.
Bottom Line:
I have had my bars for four years now. They have been on 4 different bikes. I am an aggresive rider who does everything from XC to Downhill racing. I regularly jump off stuff. Mine haven't broken and never once have I taken a torque wrench to my bike. Oh well but I guess that is just me these guys must be real hard core.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rocky
a Racer
from north vernon,IN Date Reviewed: January 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
anything in WNC
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
looks, great bend
Weaknesses:
break without crashing
Similar Products Used:
whatever
Bike Setup:
sugar2+ with thompson stem
Bottom Line:
I broke wo sets of these in one year! they are crap. I don't know why people give these good marks??I inspected my bars(three different pairs) and found that they are .4mm out of round at the stem area, this causes uneven clamping pressures and forms lateral stress risers in the bar, plus they are not a one piece wound carbon fiber but rather a sheet that is bonded together (look inside and you will see where it is pinched together) this is where mine cracked (the weakest spot ) bottom line, if never get more than two miles from the trailhead and are a slave to fashion then buy these but if you do epics or race and need dependable bars go for something else. I will say that easton customer service was great to me and replaced my bars twice no questions asked, so for that and the fact that there aluminum products are top quality I will give one chille
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Rose
a Weekend Warrior
from Lavington Date Reviewed: December 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
dirt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
weight,looks
Weaknesses:
care needed for long life
Bike Setup:
modified Trek Fuel 90, 2001 model
Bottom Line:
I am 182cm tall and weigh 90kgs. I am not an overly aggressive rider and do not go looking for big drop offs. I purchased my bike for light weight and comfort which is why I added these bars. After 6 months of trail riding and racing, I have been pleased with these bars. I had them fitted by a bike mechanic. Took a while to get used to the extra width and flex but I can live with that. Last couple of rides they have started to creak which is very annoying, I dont know if this is a tension problem or the start of something more dramatic. I will take my bike back to my mechanic and see what he has to say. Would I buy another set?, at this stage yes, as long as I can get rid of the creak!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Central PA Date Reviewed: December 30, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
109.
Strengths:
Bars are nice
Weaknesses:
bars cracked in three months without a crash.
Bike Setup:
Tweeked Jekyll
Bottom Line:
The warranty service is terrible in my opinion. It has been a month and a half, finally got a new set of bars, but they mailed me some low rise, instead of the high risers I had. I sent them back. Over a month and a half now, and still without bars. I would go for some aluminum bars next time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MJ Rose
a Cross Country Rider
from Tracy, CA Date Reviewed: December 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Flume Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Livermore Cyclery
Strengths:
Strong, Light, Looks great
Weaknesses:
None that I have experienced
Similar Products Used:
Other high quality riser and flat bars. Including: Easton Monkey Bar, Titec Hell Bent, Ritchey flat, OEM bars.
Bike Setup:
2003 Cannondale Jekyll, Manitou Black, XTR.
Bottom Line:
I have been riding the Monkey Lite Carbon for over two years now and have had ZERO problems with it. In fact, it has been mounted on at least 4 bikes so far, has been through countless stems, shifters, and brake upgrades, and has had all sorts of stuff mounted to it (speedo, lights, bell, GPS). Its light weight and bump absorbing properties make it all worth the extra money you pay for it. And after two years of harsh riding, the logos on the bar still look like new. I ride ALOT and I am not a lightweight person (6' - 205#) - I have been very happy with its performance and would recommend it to anyone. As far as overtightening parts on the bar, if you just use common mechanical sense and don't overtighten - there should not be an issue with it cracking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James m
a
from Vancouver, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: December 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Snapped after first ride
Similar Products Used:
Crowbars
Bike Setup:
2003 Kona Scab With Monsters and 8" Hayes Hydros and XTR DriveTrain
Bottom Line:
Despite getting the forks tourqued down to the right tightness, They snapped after the first ride on me. Theyre peices of crap and i dont recommend then to anyone
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: November 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The one nearby
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Light, Looks Good, Vibration Damping.
Weaknesses:
Warnings about cracks and scratches causes paranoia and anxiety during installation and riding.
Similar Products Used:
EC90 Composite XC bars, Titec Ringleader(6061s).
Bottom Line:
Seems to hold up well in the rough and hairy stuff. Feels good when you speed over the little bumps as its vibration damping is pretty good.
The only problem I had is the paranoia, induced by the warnings for scratches and overtightening during installation(same paranoia I had with the EC90 Bars) I didn't have a problems with the EC90 Bars those were great, but as i don't own i torque wrench, I made sure I was careful not to overtighten the stem clamps and brake levers with the monkeylites.
Riding around my neighbourhood for a test run proved that all i did was undertighten the stem clamp. the bars rotated when i tried to loft the front wheel. So i tightened them and went for test rides until they wouldn't rotate. It turned out I was an idiot. when i took it to a reasonably harsh trail, the seemed 'un-rotatble' right up to the part where I was coming down a rough slope pretty quick tried to jumps of a rock, but the bars rotated, the front wheel didn't lift off the rock and just dug in and I was thrown over the bars. Lucky i wasn't going very quick as it was a really wet slippery day and managed to land on my feet and come off running.
I did take the bar off and check it for cracks and stress marks, but it looked alright.
I'm quite sure once I tighten it properly the bar will perform.
So considering that you have to be so so careful not to overtighten or undertighten the stem clamps on the bar, if you don't have a torque wrench or don't get you're LBS to do it. Also the worry of scratches affecting its durability adds to the down side of the bar. On the up side they felt and performed great right up to the part where I crashed(my fault). Seeing as I can't blame the bar for my own incompetence, I give it 4 chillis, would have been a 5 if i owned a torque wrench which would invoke confidence in the installation and didn't have to be so paranoid about overtightening or undertightening.
Forseeing that I will probably replace the bar if I crash hard, or crack it(as you should if you crack any bar) and the cost of buying another one...well, the value rating drops a little to 3 chillis
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from Irvine, CA Date Reviewed: October 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
San Juan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat
Strengths:
vibration dampening sweet looks super light
Weaknesses:
fragile
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth ID
Bottom Line:
This bar is incredibly strong, but is far too fragile for rough mountain biking. If you have access to a torque wrench and almost never crash, then this is the perfect bar for you since it provides such a smooth ride with the vibration dampening. The bar is considerably lighter, but the dapening is its primary benefit. Unfortunately for me, on a technical section of trail one side of the handlebar snapped off with my odi grip. I'm not sure whether the bar was weakened from a previous crash or overtightening the grips. The value only got 2 chilis because this bar ought to be replaced after any potentially compromising crash for a piece of mind.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M. Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from Knoxville, TN Date Reviewed: October 23, 2003
Mongoose Ti hardtail, XT/XTR components, Psylo SL fork, Bontrager race modified disc wheels, Hayes hydraulic discs, American Classic Ti seat post, Chris King Headset, etc.
Bottom Line:
I had ridden these bars for maybe two years before they completely broke off on my hand. Up to that I was pleased with them. I could never tell that they damped trail vibrations but they were light and looked quite stylish. A couple of days prior to the failure I had done a fairly epic ride with some long, rutted, rocky descents. Thank God they didn't fail that day! Half way into the next ride the right side of the bar snapped off in my hand. I was climbing at the time so I didn't crash or experience any injury. Had this happened on the previous ride I wouldn't have been so fortunate. The bar broke at the brake lever clamp. I was confused at first and thought the grip slipped off in my hand. It took me second to process what had happened. We stopped and zip tied the remaining piece of the bar to the left side and I continued the ride with both brakes and shifters on one side. I quickly contacted Easton and they replaced the bar FREE of charge with an Easton Monkey Lite DH. I have had this bar for over a year and it has held up fine thus far. I am 220 lbs, so if you're horizontally challenged you might want to consider another bar. The problem with carbon is that it doesn't bend, it breaks without warning. Think about that before you buy one. I am rating this bar a little higher than it deserves because unlike several other folks in this forum I received acceptable customer satisfaction.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Rose
a Cross Country Rider
from Charleston West Virginia USA Date Reviewed: October 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The one I'm on right now
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Charleston Bicycle Center
Strengths:
This bar is extremely light and tough as coffin nails. I've put it through lots of carnage in the rocky and rooty trails of West Virginia. I love it. It gives me a great feel - and that's always nice. No flex that I can tell but it does seem to be smoother than the other AL bars I've used. So it does do some vibration damping. Not to mention - it looks cool. So, not only does it work - it's styling too - and you can't beat that.
Weaknesses:
I haven't found any.
Similar Products Used:
Several AL Bars
Bike Setup:
A hardtail I built and love. It's got two wheels and when I'm on it - I'm happy.
Bottom Line:
I love it. I was a bit afraid that spending $100 on a bar was silly - but as with most things I've bought for my bike - you get what you pay for. I've burned through a lot of gear - and this is one that is worth the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan R
a Cross Country Rider
from Long Island N.Y. Date Reviewed: August 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Ones with dirt, rock, and trees
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$95.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Junkie ;)
Strengths:
Stiff bar for a composite much stiffer than aluminum bars, Puts your hands in a nice postion to climb and decend, Very good response to steering input and nice comfortable feel in your hands (no bad vibes). Unable to bend unlike alumnium bars which did in my EA 70's.
Weaknesses:
Must be mounted properly (download and print PDF file from easton's web site prior to installing), Scratching is an issue here and i'm always worried about them snapping, if you want to cut them down they must be brought to a shop than can cut carbon fiber or you risk damage, EXPENSIVE for handle bars.
Similar Products Used:
Easton EA-70 flat, Specialized body wide flat,
Bike Setup:
Specialized stumpjumper FSR XC
Bottom Line:
These are some really nice bars if used for the correct intention. Bars built for XC can not be used for Downhill like I have read in alot of reviews here. Easton makes a Carbon Fiber bars for downhill if your looking for one but this review is for the XC bars. I like th stiffness of these I was worried they would flex to much but so far I have yet to have any flex from them. I also like the idea they can't bend I have lost most of my bars to bending so this is a nice feature for me. They doseem to cut down on vibrations from the trail and if you combine them with a Carbon Fiber headset spacer it works even better. I feel like I have better control on my bike now and my hand postion feels like I have more levrage on uphills and more control on downhills. I do have some issues with the whole scratching thing. If your going to build a product for Mt. Biking it will get beat up this is just the way it is. I don't like the idea if they scratch they could break. Scratches happen on a daily routine and I feel like I have just one more worry with my bike now. As for mounting them do your self a favor and go to Easton's web site and print out the PDF before installing it will help on the install.They are expensive but if you go cheap you know how that always works out I just hope they don't break PEACE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Venice Date Reviewed: July 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
light, comfortable, strong, wide
Weaknesses:
Needing to worry that scratches from brake and barend clamps affect the bar's integrity
So, you go to install the bars and Easton's literature says (more than once) words to the effect of: don't overtighten your clamps and don't scratch the resin.
Well, like any normal person, while getting my brakes and barends properly angled I loosened and tweaked them, and (maybe not like any normal person) I imagined I was slicing fine lines into the resin like a diamond into a sheet of glass. And I worried: "My bars are gonna break!"
Well, a year and several thousand miles later, after yanking like a gorilla (let alone a monkey) through countless out-of-the-saddle big gear climbs, my bars are intact and performing like they did they day I installed them. They are all-day comfortable, nicely angled, and while I haven't gone back to aluminum to compare vibration dampening, I will say that the carbon does seem to damp bzzt-bzzt vibration beautifully.
It still crosses my mind whether THIS is the climb that will break them. But you know, aluminum breaks, too.
Worth every penny. All future bikes will sport Monkeylites.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from keene,NH,usa Date Reviewed: June 9, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$109.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
MY God this is a light bar! extra length for better hand position Looks Hot Limited lifetime 5 year warranty(lets hope I wont need to use it) Vibration dampening (it really is signifigant) XC riders should love it.
Weaknesses:
I was very skeptical about a Carbon-bar. Psychologically you must overcome the "will this bar break on me??" bearier.
Similar Products Used:
Bonty crowbar sport (This thing easily weighs double the easton) I think I have replaced mufflers on my car that were lighter. Kona 165g straight bar.
Bike Setup:
Fisher Hookoo. Odi clamp on grips(highly recommended with carbon bars)
Bottom Line:
So Far, This has been BY FAR my best upgrade. You will not believe how light this Riser bar is. I must admit i'm still paranoid about this bar breaking. I have installed this Bar VERY Carfully! The Odi clamp ons...are a nice compliment. I have hammered HARD (No 5 or 6 foot drops or jumps) several times since I purchased this bar. Living in NH you have no choice but to Ride ROcky, Muddy, technical uphills and downhills. These bars absorb shock very Well...Trust me! I have crashed 3 or 4 times with these bars...no breakage yet! I do have a scratch on them ...it does'nt Go into the bar...(the surface is still smooth) but it is on the "seam" right down the middle just to the right side. I'm VERY worried this will cause a break...but nothing yet. As long as I dont end up eating my Tires because of breakage ALL IS GOOD. So far So GOOD.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
freddie
a Cross Country Rider
from Harbor City, CA USA Date Reviewed: May 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Backbone/Sullivan loop
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Stinky light for a riser bar, cool looks.
Weaknesses:
Too fragile: bar dented from installation of Light and Motion headlight bracket (even with rubber sleeve in place), notches observed where brake levers were installed.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized low-riser.
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek Fuel 98 with mods: Truvativ cranks, Mavic 517/XTR wheelset, Chris King headset, Avid SD-7 brakes and levers, WTB SST.98 saddle. Hutchinson Python tires.
Bottom Line:
This bar didn't actually break on me but I replaced it before it had a chance to (and for my own peace of mind). Installing the bracket for the headlight (which was only hand tightened with the thumbwheel on the bracket) put a small dent in the bar despite the rubber sleeve under the bracket. Also, when removing the brake levers from the bar, I noticed notches in the bar despite careful installation.
You shouldn't have to worry whenever you adjust your brake levers or shifters whether or not you're weakening your bar. The Specilaized low-riser bar has an almost identical bend to the Easton, and I can't feel a difference in vibration absorption. Plus it's a helluva lot cheaper!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Richmond Date Reviewed: May 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ALL, lets just ride
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Olde Towne Bicycle (props)
Strengths:
Great quality, light, & looks, as well as great Vibration damping.
Weaknesses:
None, I would say price, but I havent had a complaint about them and by now would have surely bent or broken at least one alum. bar, so NO weakness.
Similar Products Used:
Eastons Flat Carbon Bar. Once again, great!
Bike Setup:
01 Enduro Pro, Titec BigAl, Monkeylite, Hayes hydro, Xtr/Xt drv. trn, (pr)Mavic 317's and (pr)Mavic Crossmax
Bottom Line:
I love the Easton Carbon bars so much, I bought them for all my GF's and my bikes. *Make sure to get the size that you want when purchasing, I accidently got a 350mm bar and had to get used to it since you arent supposed to cut the Carbon Fiber.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pepi
a
from Marin County Date Reviewed: April 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Zig Zag
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$85.00
Strengths:
Light, dampens vibrations, control and great feel.
Weaknesses:
Carbon fiber can be damaged very easily and some damages are not readily visable to the eye. Price.
Similar Products Used:
Aluminum handlebars Riser/Flat
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper FSR Pro w/special goodies added.
Bottom Line:
This bar has been a joy to ride. Unfortunatly I did crack it once. I didn't even realize it was cracked until my mechanic checked out my bike while fixing other broken stuff from a bad crash. Glad he saw it. I just don't have any confidence in it anymore. Easton was good about a warantee replacement. (2 weeks time) I would recommend it to a XC racer or light/recreational riders, but not to aggressive riders.Even the DH version could have the same problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russell Ballew
a Cross Country Rider
from Elk Grove Date Reviewed: April 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
American River ravine/Auburn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Lightweight, strong, beautifull, and comfortable to ride on. Seems to be somewhat shock absorbing as well; ie, extra inch of travel perhaps.
Weaknesses:
none, just treat the carbon fibre with care and respect. Also there is a noticable loss of front end torc, especially when climbing.
Similar Products Used:
Answer hyperlite, Ritchey chro-mo, a few no names
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Truth, White Bro's fork, XTR hubs, X517's, Raceface taper bb and 8spd crank, Sram shifters, Prescision Billet V-brakes, XTR cogs, XT brake levers, K2 pedals, Answer hyperends, King headset (of course) and WTB lazer V saddle and WTB tires.
Bottom Line:
Just wanted to be one more voice amongst the hundreds of reviewers who has become a zealous fan for the monkeylite. This bar truly is the shiznit! It made me wonder if I'd gotten a new bike on the first ride. I believe the comfort level is due mostly to the bar being wide and then the 1 and 1/2 inch rise combined with the nice sweep back towards the rider. I was a diehard XC flat bar rider with 23" or so alum bars. These have made me a convert. Only disadvantage as mentioned above is a noticable loss of front end torc, especially for climbing, but I can live with that in order to gain more control and comfort. I'm running bar ends because one hand position is not enough. Also I followed other reviewers instructions on installation such as the alchohol wipe and paper shim insert. Just simply avoid over tightening your stem bolts and you'll be fine. Now get out there and ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Karl Ritchey
a Cross Country Rider
from Wilsonville, OR USA Date Reviewed: March 28, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$135.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Gallery
Strengths:
Look styling, light weight.
Weaknesses:
They BREAK!!!
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager, Easton aluminum
Bike Setup:
TREK Fuel 100
Bottom Line:
This is the follow up to my warranty from VELTEC, Inc. (EASTON)Basically said the shop installed improperly and for an additional $60 (crash replacement) they would send me another pair. The following is a direct quote from Mike Hartzell of VELTEC "We cannot be expected to send out free products everytime this happens, so we have reduced the impact to the person, by offering a SIGNIFICANTLY reduced cost on the same product and a lesson is hopefully learned." Yeah Mike I learned a lesson, DON'T BUY EASTON. So basically there warranty covers the bars until you buy them. Strong bars don't break, PERIOD! I would be crazy to waste any more money on a potential impaling hazard.
DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY UNLESS LIFEFLIGHT CAN PICK YOU UP AND GET YOU TO THE TRAUMA CENTER QUICKLY!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Karl Ritchey
a Cross Country Rider
from Wilsonville, OR USA Date Reviewed: February 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
All of them!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$135.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Gallery
Strengths:
Extremly light weight.
Weaknesses:
Any damage at all to the bar and they are extremly dangerous to ride.
Similar Products Used:
Easton Aluminium and Bontrager
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 100
Bottom Line:
I was extremely pleased when I purchased these bars. They were very light. I had a fairly light crash and continued to ride, the next log I hopped put me into the air with two pieces of handlebar I got lucky I didn't get impaled or worse. I ended up riding 5 more miles on half a handlebar. I went back to aluminium. Be careful!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: February 1, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Light, strong, comfy, look really cool.
Weaknesses:
None, other than price ... so shop around and don't pay retail.
I finally broke down and got these bars because I never liked the stock Bontys that came with the bike. They had great reviews ... plus I got them cheap on eBay. I immediately noticed the difference the first time out. Smooth and really comfortable. Don't believe the critics -- these bars are strong and hold up. This is one of the smartest purchases I've every made and one I'd recommend to riders of all levels. Believe the hype!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Pleasanton Date Reviewed: January 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Any East Bay Park
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$109.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Ridged when climbing out of the saddle. Absorbs trail vibration that come through aluminum bars. Far tougher than any aluminum bar, if properly installed. Lasts longer than any aluminum bar if installed correctly. Its far lighter than any flat xc bar I've ever tried, even though its a riser bar.
Weaknesses:
If installed correctly, this carbon bar truely has no weaknesses.
Similar Products Used:
So many stock and aftermarket XC bars I couldn't list or remember them all.
Bike Setup:
2003 FSRxc with F519 mavics, DT hubs and Easton Carbonfiber Monkey Light Riser Bar.
Bottom Line:
This bar has totaly surpassed all my hopes. I didn't want to spend what I thought was a totaly insane $109.00, but after reading how it dampened vibrations, I broke down and decided to take the risk because of wrists that were getting sore. This bar is now on its second bike (4000 miles on it) and has been a "set and forget" part, wich is the way a quality part should be. I weigh 200 lb.s and like the fact it is more ridged than an aluminum bar when climbing out of the saddle. It is a rare thing in the aftermarket world; a part that really does what it is claimed to do, but this bar, has actually exceded Eastons claims. It hasn't totaly fixed the sore wrist problem, but it has made it possible for me to go on 20 mile rides and enjoy myself.
Follow the installation instructions and you shouldn't have any problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Albert
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: January 19, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$110.00
Strengths:
The Feel, The Look,
Weaknesses:
Aint none
Bottom Line:
Go for the CARBON !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Captn
a
from Laguna Hills Date Reviewed: January 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
RockNRoad
Strengths:
super light,strong,look good
Weaknesses:
cant find any
Similar Products Used:
zero
Bike Setup:
9800 oclv trek
Bottom Line:
they are light, strong, they look good. No complaints.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Milledgeville Ga USA Date Reviewed: November 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
urban ville
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
pretty flippen strong! soaks up vibration like a sponge , really lite if you like that sort of thing. Looks sexy.
Weaknesses:
bar ends can chip if you aren't careful
Bike Setup:
hardrock haha xt components and psylo sl rockshox
Bottom Line:
it's pricey but it's worth the dough. easton makes a thicker carbon riser bar for downhilling and freeriding. they hold up!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Karl
a Cross Country Rider
from England Date Reviewed: November 4, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$140.00
Strengths:
light, looks, dampening effect.
Weaknesses:
A little nervy of cracking noises when installing.
Similar Products Used:
OEM
Bike Setup:
Marin '01 East Peak with carbon bits :)
Bottom Line:
Read somewhere that Easton recommends slipping a piece of paper between bar and stem. Prepping with white spirits to degrease (oil from hands etc.) helps too. I don't have a torque wrench, so just finger tightened 'til the bars didn't twist when pushing sus forks down. That combo of paper, white spirits and tightening has worked fine for the last four rides- much rather go too easy than too tight.
Anyway, I bought it to avoid finger numbing vibrations from rubble paths. Vibration absorption on little stuff isn't really apparent, but hands, arms and shoulders definitely feel better the next day. Going over big stuff and downhill the dampenings' more noticeable- cos you're not being shaken about so much, you don't have to grip the bars as tight as before. So it makes me go faster downhill even though it doesn't feel faster with the lack of vibes! Its 94 gram weight saving on OE Marin bars means it's quicker uphill too. Well worth the £100.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
WILLIAM
a Cross Country Rider
from SOUTHAMPTON, MASS. USA Date Reviewed: October 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
MT. POMEROY
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
NORTHAMPTON BICYCLE
Strengths:
They do reduce vibration in hands. They look cool. They are lightweight. So far very strong.
Weaknesses:
Price. Delicate nature of the carbon fiber being damaged if scratched or hit just right, or clamped on too hard.
Similar Products Used:
Profile design aluminum bars.
Bike Setup:
2000 FSR XC with BETD link/bearing kit. Time ATAC carbon pedals.
Bottom Line:
I have broken both wrists when younger on a motocross bike and have had problems with vibration in bike do to off roading. The full suspension bike has made a HUGE difference in comfort, but still found my hands aching after long rides. I was sceptical about these bars, all the claims of the shock resistance of carbon fiber, and cases of bars snapping. Well, one year later riding some very, very knarly , rocky, extremely root infested New England trails I have to first say that the vibration aspects of carbon are true. Although I don't feel any flex in the bars, the real difference is in how I feel after a 3 hour ride on hard trails. I had an incedent that happened. I was ripping down a real rocky trail, ( actually a primitave fireroad), all rocks, and I found myself getting out of control, going faster, hill getting steeper, and rocks and drops getting larger. I honestly thought that I was going to bite it that day or at least have a good vacation in a hospital. I was hitting so hard that my front forks were "clunking" from bottoming out on several 3 foot drops or so. Well, I thought for sure these bars would snap, but they did not. I weigh 175 lbs. I think if the bars could withstand that 2 mile descent from hell, I think they can handle anything. As long as they don't get damaged. Perhaps, those who had theirs break recieved bars that had factory flaws. If this is the case Easton should watch this better, you could die breaking a bar, no joking matter. Overall, my experience has been great. I am a pretty mellow trail rider compared to some of you wildmen who do 3' drops all day. If you are looking for a light, shock absorbing bar for XC riding, I think this bar would be a good choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Curt
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh, PA, USA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Frick Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Gatto Cycle Shop
Strengths:
Weight, looks.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Easton Monkeybars.
Bike Setup:
2001 Stumpjumper M4 w/ goodies.
Bottom Line:
This handlebar is meant for XC riding only. The handlebar does absorb shock and has the benefit of being lightweight. It also complements my bike well.
If you are looking for a handlebar that is light, strong (if used for its application-XC), and durable, get one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen Wallace
a Racer
from fl Date Reviewed: August 6, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Props Run ,W. VA.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
chics dig them.
Weaknesses:
had to dip into the beer fund just to afford them.
five year warranty? 150 grams? vibration damping also? and a more comfortable riding positon too? sign me up for two please. did i mention chics dig them. put that eurotrash jersey back on the rack and put your money where it counts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris dimieri
a Downhiller
from flagstaff, az Date Reviewed: July 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
"the oney"
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
lightweight, good geometry, perfect amount of rise.
Weaknesses:
sheared off the left side on a wimpy drop into a nice transition. and people claim carbon is better than aluminum and is stronger and doesn't weaken over time like aluminum does. well guess what, it's all a crock.
Similar Products Used:
a run in the mill no name aluminum riser bar.
Bike Setup:
schwinn homegrown hardtail, xt setup, avid arch rival brakes, mavic 517 up front, mavix sup 221 downhill on back. easton carbon seatpost, race face system stem, panaracer fire dh 2.3 tires, manitou mars elite air sprung fork. cranq alum riser bars now.
Bottom Line:
bottom line is this. I like air, drops into trannys, balls out screaming flagstaff downhills filled with rubble. i was told that carbon is better and stronger than aluminum. after completing my own trail (now declared the best trail in az by flag locals) I have been riding it for one year. this trail has drops, airs, 80 foot ponderosa pine rolls, technical, steep, switchbacks. my bike never gave a problem. my friends and I are into riding sick downhill on our hardtails and we're damn good @ it. all of a sudden one day on a 3 foot drop onto a grassy tranny around nau campus, boom, left side of the handlebar sheared perfectly. my beef is that these big corporate moguls don't test the products properly. where do these pu$$ie$ ride, nebraska. my friend recently ordered a santa cruz bullit that came with what, a set of carbon monkeylites. on a downhill bike. what! that's not all, in another related/non-handlebar related, my roomate has a judy race on his homegrown. living in flag, we ride @ least 60 miles a week on flag singletrack. my roomated fork started leaking oil, a seal was bad or something. these jacka$$e$ @ rock shox tell my roomate after he sent the fork in that he either used a high pressure spray hose directly on the fork or he left the bike on a roof rack for like 2 months. then joe schmoe of rock shox tells my roomate it will cost 70 dollars to fix it. outrageous! just b/c my roomate and i actually ride our bikes and he got sent a lemon of a fork, he has to pay to fix it. what should we do, drive around town like some gaper with our bikes on top of our cars. no, these products cannot be tested adequately in my eyes. have the rock shox boys been to flag, do they know that kind of riding we have to offer. nope. they assume we will not put their forks to use. my new fork gets a mandatory 5 footer off the bat for testing. these products which cost an arm and a leg need to be properly tested. and don't tell us what we are riding and not riding when we want to warrantee a lemon bike part. death to rock shox, they deserve to be bought by sram. unsatisfied with corporate america.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Jefferson
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore, Maryland Date Reviewed: May 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Avalon, Loch Raven
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
Perfomance store
Strengths:
Weight
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
1999 Giant XTC SE1 hartail.
Bottom Line:
This bar is best used as a weight reducer. Anyone who inadvertantly purchases this bar thinking it can be used as a downhill or freeride bar is mistaken. Despite however it's been marketing by Easton, this bar should be used for XC not DH nor freeride. It won't handle big drops well or at all. I like having a lightweight XC bike and I also Own a 2001 Giant AC Air. I'm certain I'm using it on the proper bike, my hardtail not my freeride AC
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
r h
a Downhiller
from balfour,bc Date Reviewed: May 15, 2002
let me see............ oh yeah, IT BREAKS ON HARD IMPACTS GODDAMMIT
Similar Products Used:
Easton Scandium, Race Face Alloy (Both way better bars)
Bike Setup:
Marin Team DH; Race Face here, Race Face there; Hayes; etc, etc.
Bottom Line:
I first considered this bar because of its claim of being stronger than any other riser bar out there; then I saw the lifetime warranty that came with it and thought it would be perfect(Long lasting and free replacements till I die). Then came the day the fawqin thing snapped while I was landing a nice drop, I was pretty pissed to say the least and badly hurt. anyways the bottom line is that if you ride really flat trails with no obstacles, this is your bar. If you ride mountain bike trails then BUY ANOTHER BAR, unless you like the feeling of chest planting onto your stem and snapped bar, and going arse over tea kettle as the dangling remains of your bar goes in your front wheel. Carbon fiber has no place on a bike that is meant to take abuse; at least with aluminum it will bend a little (hopefully) so you have a warning that its going to break soon. The only bright spot out of buying this bar is that Easton warrantied it with a Scandium replacement which is much much burlier(been beating it up on 12 plus foot drops and hasn't even bent yet)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Danault
a Racer
from Clarksville Date Reviewed: May 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Rotary Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Naults
Strengths:
Light weight
Weaknesses:
Weak... broke it very painful dropped off loading dock 8 feet ouch chest met stem balls met top tube ouch should have known better bought a scandium should not have a problem now. If you race cross country it is a damn good bar. I sometimes think I should do free ride in stead of cross country. lololol anyways good bar for what it is meant for I guess
Similar Products Used:
bontrager chro mo
Bike Setup:
Custom trek 8000
Bottom Line:
Race it don't free ride with it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stach
a Racer
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: May 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Fight Trail - Halifax
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Cyclesmith Halifax
Strengths:
light, stiff, good-looking
Weaknesses:
Yes, you do have to fork over a bit of coin.
Similar Products Used:
race face
Bike Setup:
Cove Stiffee set up for XC racing (XTR, raceface, blah, blah)
Bottom Line:
I believe it to be the best choice for a light-weight (racing quality) riser bar, although you wouldn't go wrong with the race face either. Making the transition from a flat-bar with bar-ends took about 30 seconds, and I will never go back. cheers!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Swanny
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington State Date Reviewed: May 8, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Strong (unless you are a ham-fisted mechanic) Light Good Looking Absorbs shocks
Weaknesses:
Don't ding your bars or you may cause a catastrophic failure. Use a torque wrench when you clamp it to the stem and slide your shifters and brakes on.
Similar Products Used:
Easton CT2 flat bar on my XC rig.
Bike Setup:
2002 Specialized Enduro Expert
Bottom Line:
A few years ago I put the CT2 bars on my XC rig and what a difference they made. I just bought a 2002 Enduro and the stock bars were plain goofy. I slapped a set of the Easton risers on and the difference was like night and day. These bars rock! Just like the other reviewers have said, "You get what you pay for."
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kurt
a Weekend Warrior
from Northern IL Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
light weight . carbon fiber strength . rise and sweepback very comfortabe . wide length allows for bars ends without cramping regular grips . vibration dampening alloy bars dont have .
Weaknesses:
price . overtighten just once and you will compromise the bar .
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
giant warp
Bottom Line:
lightweight / strong / stiff . the riding position is nothing short of fantastic compaired to oe bar . vibration is absorbed without compromising stiffness . easton has adressed weaknesses of previous carbon bars (so they say). gorilla mechanics beware , overtighning components w/ carbon bars will cause permanent dammage . read the technical bullitin on the use of end bars before clamping them up as some designs are incompatable .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from California Date Reviewed: April 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
All of em
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
Very smooth...Great vibration dampening.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
race face
Bike Setup:
Intense uzzi SL. XTR
Bottom Line:
GO BUY ONE...They ROCK!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff
a Weekend Warrior
from West Caldwell, NJ Date Reviewed: April 14, 2002
Great bar and I love them but I did break them. Clean break between the shifter and the brake lever clamp.
Replaced with no hassle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chad mcdaniel
a Weekend Warrior
from orlando,fl Date Reviewed: March 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
snowill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
j&r bikes
Strengths:
carbonfiber and it is lite...
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
easton and race face..
Bike Setup:
2002 giant
Bottom Line:
the bars are bad.... they are worth every cent you pay for....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bernie
a Cross Country Rider
from Halifax, Nova Scotia Date Reviewed: March 6, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Cyclesmith
Strengths:
Weight, dampening, looks.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey and generic flat bars.
Bike Setup:
Stock Sworks M2
Bottom Line:
After reading the great reviews and talking to a variety of bike shop workers, I decided to give this thing a try. The change in my riding position has been fantastic - I don't seem to be so stretched out. The bars seem to take a lot of vibration out of the ride and are really comortable. Really sweet bars. The price could be a bit better but you pay for what you get.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mark
a
from Flagstaff, Az Date Reviewed: February 2, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
absolute bikes
Strengths:
really light and it's big pimpin, i mean it looks cool
Weaknesses:
none so far..
Bike Setup:
specialized M4 PRO
Bottom Line:
you get what you pay for, it cost alot but well worth the money if your looking for a really light bar and it rides supper smooth :-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bike Maniac
a Cross Country Rider
from Black Forest Date Reviewed: January 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Singletrails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
bikemarket.com
Strengths:
Weight, stiffness, durability, looks, good customer support from Easton
Weaknesses:
Carbon fiber can be damaged through overtightened stems, shifters / brake levers
'99 GT Zaskar LE Team, full XTR, Easton stem and bar, King Headset, Marzocchi 02 Z2 Atom Race, Crossmax UST, Michelin XLS and Front S, Flite Tri Gel, Syncros Post
Bottom Line:
Very nice and strong product. Together with a stiff frame, stem and fork (so NO SID) it results in very precise steering, better control and ergonomic seat position. I used a flatbar on this bike before that and the lowriser fits my riding much better. I feel no need for barends; my position on the bike is very balanced. Climbing is as good as it used to be and downhill more fun. I recommend to use it together with somewhat beefier grips (I tried several and now use Race Face and they're good).
Definitely an issue is the right mounting of the bar. The stem should not be overtightened so one should use a torque wrench for that and follow Easton's recommendations. This applies also for the shifter / brake lever: in case of a crash they should be able to move a bit. Otherwise it is very likely that a crash will damage the bar, break it or cause failure in the long run. I recently crashed and the right hand side shifter moved up a little on the bar when the bike (and myself) hit the ground -> so no damage resulted. However one should check the bar after having had a crash (this is not carbon specific !!!).
Worth to mention also: if the standard width does not fit, one can easily cut the bar with a sharp fine bladed hacksaw (i cut less then a half inch). It's just the same as cutting a steel or aluminum bar. To avoid unraveling of fibers, wrap the bar with some layers of masking tape and just cut through the tape. When you cut this stuff you will see, how strong it is. After using this bar for over a year now, my distrust against carbon is history (and I once did crack an aluminum bar!).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zack Solomon
a Cross Country Rider
from Gaithersburg Date Reviewed: January 23, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
local store
Strengths:
light
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
This is a light bar that I has never given me any problems. Mount it and forget it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ronnie
a Racer
from Las Vegas, NV Date Reviewed: January 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
singletracks
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Light, strong good price
Weaknesses:
not enough room for all the gadgets some may have.
Similar Products Used:
almost all on the market
Bike Setup:
XCR 4000, Yeti, Mongoose, Custom, Trek all have XTR plus some Easton
Bottom Line:
Great product, only downside is that if you have a computer, and lights you will have lacking space for them. Otherwise ditch the lights and keep the puter. Great product, gone through a lot already and no signs of wear. Great product!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Cambs, UK Date Reviewed: January 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Ridgeway
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Ben Hayward Bikes, Cambs
Strengths:
Very light, nice angles and sweep for my hands, good looks, great at reducing vibration, makes every trail smoother (don't ask me how!)
Weaknesses:
None at all.
Similar Products Used:
Azonic & Race Face Air Alloy risers (and Kona/Marin in-house, if that counts...)
Bike Setup:
Kona 18" steel frame, Judy Race, Syncros post (6 years old, not a single problem...), Race Face stem, Chris King headset, LX/XT other bits.
Bottom Line:
If you've never used this bar before, you'll put it on your rig and wonder what all the fuss was about. Then you'll realise that you've had no wrist/arm ache in your last week's riding, and you've been going further with less fatigue than ever before. OK, it's pretty expensive, and I can't order you to sell something precious to you in order to get it, but this is one seriously nice bit of kit that really helps. I can't comment on whether it's suitable for DH, as I'm an all-day trail rider type, but it's perfect for me. I'm still chuffed over a year later. No reservations at all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike b
a Cross Country Rider
from Sodom in the North Date Reviewed: December 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
boggs
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
vision cyclery sf
Strengths:
light weight intimidating appearance superior vibration damping
Weaknesses:
none detected so far
Similar Products Used:
salsa moto ace titec 118 straight bar
Bike Setup:
sc superlight 25.5 lbs, dog dick red, no stickers, no junk bolted on to it.
Bottom Line:
oongowa. oongowa. OOOONGOWAAA!
that's what i was saying after my first hour or so on these bars. granted, it's only the second riser bar i've ever used and the first carbon fiber, but man oh man! compared to the moto ace on my hardtail, these things are like having an extra quarter inch of suspension in yhour fork.
for a while, i was using a moneky lite on one ibis hardtail and the moto ace on an identical frame. it is hard to believe how well this handlebar absorbs vibration in unison with the suspension of your bike. i'm gonna buy another pair of these things pretty soon to replace the ones i'm running now, as two years is supposed to be about how long we should be using our bars before we retire them. i think i'll keep using these bars until i find something even better.
i did'nt mention how cool these things look with sram's 1998 grey-black composite brake levers bolted on.
these bars rock, go try them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BEAUX DUKE
a Weekend Warrior
from HAZZARD Date Reviewed: December 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
NANTAHALA OUTDOOR CENTER
Strengths:
LIGHTWEIGHT, ABSORBS VIBRATION REMARKABLY WELL, LOOK COOL ALTHOUGH I'M FROM THE "FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION" SCHOOL
Weaknesses:
A LITTLE TOO WIDE SO I REMOVED 3/4" FROM EACH SIDE
Similar Products Used:
RACE-FACE LO RISER;LIKED THESE JUST FINE BUT HAD TO REMOVE OVER 1" FROM EACH SIDE OF THESE, FELT LIKE I WAS ON A HARLEY UNTIL I CLIPPED A COUPLE OF TREES AT SPEED AND WOKE UP TASTING BARK
Bike Setup:
98' STUMPJMPR PRO,ALL XTR EXC FOR R-FACE CRANKSET, ORIGINAL RACE-LITES W/C KING HUBSET, 98' SID,BLAH, BLAH
Bottom Line:
I NOTICED THE BARS ABSORBING VIBRATION FROM DAY ONE, MY BIKE IS EXTREMELY STIFF SO I NEED ALL THE HELP I CAN GET AND THESE DO THE JOB QUITE WELL, JUST 4 FLAMING OSAMAS BECAUSE THATS MUCHO $$ FOR HANDLEBARS
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Danault
a Racer
from Ft.Campbell Date Reviewed: December 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
LBL
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Naults in Manchester
Strengths:
Weight, Strength
Weaknesses:
Weakness? Can't Find One
Similar Products Used:
No Other Product Used
Bike Setup:
Trek 8000,Mavic Crossrock, python tubeless, chris king headset,race face stem, hayes hydraulic disk, crank bros egg beaters, race face crank.
Bottom Line:
The best damn riser bar out. what more can you ask for light, strong good looks. Price is a little high, but hey youget what you pay for!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Beck
a Weekend Warrior
from Irvine Date Reviewed: December 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lower Ridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
BeyondBikes.com
Strengths:
This bar has taken all the shock out of the bumps. It is super lite and very durable. I weigh over 200 pounds and have never had a problem. Call the guys at Beyond Bikes they have all the stats!!!!!
Weaknesses:
None that I have found
Similar Products Used:
Race Face, Azonic and Answer
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Truth, XTR, Race Face and all Easton
Bottom Line:
I purchased this bar at BeyondBikes.com for a super price! I know for a fact that there are no better bars on the market! Stay away from everything else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Hawaii Date Reviewed: December 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Lightweight
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Trek 4300
Bottom Line:
Replaced the stock riser bar on my Trek 4300 which weighed in at an incredible 420g. Weighed the Easton Monkeybar at 158g -- a few grams over the claimed 150g, pretty good for manufacturing tolerances. Obviously, quite a weight saving for me! The lighter front end makes my ride a lot smoother and easier to control. Carbon fiber smoothes out some of the bumpiness and resonances of my old bar. May just be a fluke, but I also found myself to be averaging a higher speed especially on inclines. Overall this $60 has to be one of the best noticeable upgrades I've ever installed. If you're thinking of getting one of these, just stop thinking and buy it already. It'll be money well worth spending.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tapeng
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 28, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Durability, dampening effect, look
Weaknesses:
Not yet found
Similar Products Used:
Koski XC riser bar, Kore
Bike Setup:
2001 Kona Kula
Bottom Line:
Got this bar as gift from brother. Replace my Koski bar and feel different instantly. Reduce wrist numb and sour. Front end ride seems to be smoother. Doesn't affect control at all. My wife feel the same about the bar and told me "I want one of this" and doesn't seems to know the cost. This time it got to be out of my own pocket. Ouch !!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria Date Reviewed: November 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Pipeline
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$90.00
Strengths:
Dampening is great. The feel is great. The only fear I have is loosing my teeth to the stem if the bar snaps. That's why I spent the extra money on this bar.
Weaknesses:
Set up properly, there are none.
Similar Products Used:
I don't care if anything else on the bike fails when I land, EXCEPT for the handlebar...okay and the stem. If either of those snap...
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight, XTR drivetrain, Raceface cranks, stem and headset, RockShox Psylo Race Tullie, Hayes disc. Razor Rock Racing Front Hub.
Bottom Line:
I used to ride on the North Shore with a SC Bullit. I had the bar then and I have it now with the SC Superlight. Although I use the crosscountry frame now, I still use it for rock drops 6 feet high, and riding down steep cliffs and technical stuff. I wouldn't use any other bar. How can you argue about the price of a product that is the lightest; yet, still arguably the strongest. Of course it's going to be the most expensive!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Martin
a Cross Country Rider
from Bournemouth,England Date Reviewed: November 14, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Xtreme,Parkstone Dorset UK
Strengths:
Comfort,lightweight,looks,strength...
Weaknesses:
Price...reviewers in the US are complaining about the price...you pay just over half of the price that we have to endure in the UK...like virtually every other product in any review...so stop moaning.
Similar Products Used:
Kore,Titec...
Bike Setup:
S-Works FSR M4...junked the stock low bars and bar ends that I had fitted...transformed the bike...previously had despised riser bars...I am now a total convert.
Bottom Line:
These bars are brilliant...despite the price they are probably one of the best cycling buys that I have ever made...they are comfortable as absorb shocks but seem to give more feed back and control...is that spooky or what...also appear indestructable...over a year ago looped my bike when I hit a car that had stopped and I did'nt...they were still in one piece unlike me...I was quite frankly amazed that they had survived...buy these if you want the best riser bars...you should not be disappointed as long as you install with commonsense.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Kaye
a Cross Country Rider
from Honolulu, HI, USA Date Reviewed: November 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Kuliouou, Honolulu
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$97.00
Purchased At:
McCully Bicycle
Strengths:
Light, Good riding position, Good wide grip distance feels like better leverage for hauling and staying in control
Weaknesses:
Got to be careful not scratching the finish when installing. Tree magnet (wide for tight spaces)
Similar Products Used:
Stock Cannondale straight bar, Titec riser.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F600, Race Face Isis LP Cranks, Easton seat post
Bottom Line:
It just feels good. My climbing is better, my life is better. I am at one with the universe now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise Date Reviewed: October 5, 2001
Easton CT2 flat, Specialized low-rise, Race Face hi-rise.
Bike Setup:
2000 Gunnar Rockhound
Bottom Line:
So far, I'm really digging the way this bar feels. I was one of those people who thought that the whole riser bar thing was a DH fad, but now I am a true convert to the riser crowd. I feel like I have more control over the bike with this bar and the riding position is so much more comfortable. The downsides are the price and the potential that the bar will snap if you over-torque it. I wouldn't use it for hucking or downhilling, but for XC it works great. It may also be too wide for narrow, tree-lined trails, but for wide-open fast stuff it rocks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob The Techno-Slut
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: September 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Bike shop
Strengths:
Easton makes some of the best bars out there,carbon or aluminum(for example,Kore and Answer flat handlebars are basically Easton-made).The Monkeylite is no exception.It's light,it's comfortable,and it looks cool--everything you look for in a quality riser bar.I love 'em!
Weaknesses:
High price.$80-$100 is a lot of money to shell out for bars! Maybe long-term durability--however,I have a friend with a set of CT2 flat bars over a year old and are doing just fine,no stress cracks or anything,so I wouldn't sweat it(unless you are a 200-lb freeriding brute who regularly breaks bars).Be careful when you clamp the bar in the stem--clamping it too firmly could result in fatigue and eventual breakage.
Similar Products Used:
Easton EA70 riser,Answer Hyperlite flat bar,Easton EA50 flat bar
A great set of bars.Costly,but worth the money all the way if you're looking for a good riser bar.I weighed my 1" rise model at around 140 grams--this is lighter than most aluminum flat bars and way lighter than any other riser. I've heard many horror stories about carbon,but in reality CT2 bars hold up just as well over the long run as any aluminum bar when used for the intended application.They are NOT for downhill racing or freeriding--they are riser bars for XC riders who want a little more comfort.Keeping this in mind,they are excellent bars. If you aren't careful about installation and tighten your bar/stem clamp interface too much,you will stress the bar,making it likely to snap on you.Just be delicate about torquing the bolts and it should be okay. If you still aren't convinced about carbon's reliability or can't afford a set,fine.Buy a set of EA70 risers,which have the same width,rise,and sweep and are just as comfortable.Just don't whine about the extra weight!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen
a Cross Country Rider
from Maine Date Reviewed: September 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Windham fire tower
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Light, strong, fits me well, I like the way cf looks
Weaknesses:
price
Similar Products Used:
Qranc riser
Bike Setup:
Titus LocoMoto, X-vert Super, Maguras, Cross links
Bottom Line:
I'm not particulary hard on equipment, but I will say I have had no problems with this bar. I am in the process of building a single speed, and this is the bar that will be going on that as well. I hate to part with $100(although you can get them for less on e-bay) for a handlebar, but this one seems worth it. Of course the new answer cf bar looks sweet too.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kurt Levy
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the last one I was on
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
Lightweight
Weaknesses:
Developed two one inch long cracks on either side of the stem clamp.
Similar Products Used:
Titec Hellbent ti
Bike Setup:
All XTR, Manitou Black Elite Air, Custom Steel hardtail, with Tubeless tires and Magura Julie disc brakes - I love my bike.
Bottom Line:
I had one of these crack on me before - but I figured that maybe I had scored the bar while installing it, so figured I would give them another shot because they are sooo light - and would look nice on my styling new steed. I installed them with much care into my open faced stem (no scoring), gently tightened the clamping bolts on the stem, shifters and brake levers, and proceeded to test my new wonder bike. Today while cleaning my bike after the second ride of its life (8 hours of riding), I saw what appeared to be cracks lenghtwise on the bar along what appears to be a seam. I pushed down on one side of the bars and quickly verified that indeed I had cracks on both sides of my h-bar clamp. I quickly re-installed my trusty Titec Hellbent, swearing off of plastic bars forever! The bars were never crashed, scored, or overtightened. I weigh 180 pounds and my riding partners can attest to the fact that I never break anything - I still have a two year old Manitou Carbon SX - which has seen hundreds of hours of use. The only thing I have ever broken, is two Monkey Lites.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Urbana, Illinois Date Reviewed: August 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Is there one?
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$109.00
Purchased At:
Frankford Bike
Strengths:
Excellent with and positioning of hands. Great damping qualities. Looks cool as hell!
Weaknesses:
Huh. I hate to say it but the price is worth it.
Similar Products Used:
First riser bar.
Bike Setup:
Dean Colonel with Marzocchi Atom 80 and mostly XTR.
Bottom Line:
After a year I guess there is not any durability issues. I haven't broke it or cracked it yet. I love the more up right riding position. Easier on the back for us over 40 crowd. The wider hand spacing seems to give you greater control and the swept back bar is easier on the wrists. Try it you can't go wrong.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marko Blau
a Racer
from Switzerland Date Reviewed: August 17, 2001
Orange Zero Trials Bike with Louise disc brakes, xtr, chris king, syntace, ultegra... www.vtcz.ch/index.php?goto=/pages/bike_technik/bikes.php&loc=mr18_8 (copy and paste the full path) (older pic with syntace bar)
Bottom Line:
I ride this bar on my trials bike and it seems to be strong enough for this. Easton even says that this bar has the highest impact strenght and durability of all their bars. A big negativ point are the bad tolerances in roundness. I measured a difference of 0.5mm in diameter around the clambing area for stem and brake levers. Because of this my Magura Louise 2001 levers did not fit well on them and the edge where the lever clamp is split deformed the bar. This edge impressed a pretty deep axial line (bar direction) into the carbon. Because it is axial I dont think it weakened the bar too much and it still holds up well. However Easton Sports should do something to improve this! The bar flexes very little. As I ride a rigid fork I can feel the difference in flex very well and this one is stiff. Mabe it really absorbes an amount of the vibrations but not very much. Some people said the bar would be too flexy so that it would make the bike handling more difficult. This can't be true. They can not feel the difference with front suspension!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: July 31, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$94.00
Purchased At:
Bikeworld.com
Strengths:
Riser provides me a better riding position and no more hand pain
Weaknesses:
None that I can tell.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
GF 2000 Kaitai; Time ATAC pedals; Monkey Lite High Riser Bar; all else bone stock.
Bottom Line:
The straight bars that came on my GF Kaitai were contributing to pain in my hands at the half way mark of my normal 24 mile rides. I made every adjustment possible on my seat to get a better riding position- no luck.
The Monkey Lite 26" riser bar seems to be my answer. I debated long and hard on whether to go with the 24" low rise or the 26" high rise. I elected the high rise 26" figuring it would give me the more noticeable change of ride position.
It works ! The longer 26" width gives me more grip options on the longer rides. The carbon fiber does seem to cancel/dampen a lot of the vibration and jarring out.
It works for me - therefore the somewhat higher price is justified by elimination/reduction of hand discomfort.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yuri
a
from Ottawa Date Reviewed: July 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
foreplay
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Very strong and very light
Weaknesses:
None that I can find
Similar Products Used:
Raceface
Bike Setup:
DeKerf Team WCS
Bottom Line:
Excellent handlebar compared to anything out there. I've been abusing this bar for three seasons now and it barely shows any signs of wear, even at the ends. After bending 3 Raceface "hardcore" bars and spent a few extra bucks and bought the Easton; I would never go back.
This bar is much stiffer than any comparable Aluminum bar I have ever ridden. I have had no problem with parts rotating or shifting position during normal riding; in fact, the slight "slipperyness" of the bar saved my brake levers and shifters a few times when I crashed and they rotated. After several trips banging off of rock and dirt the ends of the bar show no signs of wear at all.
This bar is much stiffer than any XC Al bars out there - you can feel this right away. Don't buy this if you are looking for shock absorption or are worried about Carpal Tunnel, you're better off going to a Ti bar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Racer
from Vail Date Reviewed: July 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
one that would make you barf
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Bike Source
Strengths:
There CT2 is the best carbon design, lifetime warranty, strongest, most reliable. MADE BY EASTON
Weaknesses:
For all the kids who gave this a bad rating... DONT OVER TIGHTEN ANYTHING. this is the only weakness, tighten the shifter pods and brake levers enough so if you crash they will move on the bar instead of snapping it. AND USE A DANG TORQUE WRENCH ON THE STEM, after that you wont have any problems.
I work at a bike shop and we dont carry easton. SO i had to pay full price, i wouldnt have bought it if it was as poor quality as others say
real men dont use bar ends and use a torque wrench.
Easton is too good. everyone knows they make the best when it comes to components. they wouldnt make anything of lesser value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Racer
from Vail Date Reviewed: July 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
one that would make you barf
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Bike Source
Strengths:
There CT2 is the best carbon design, lifetime warranty, strongest, most reliable. MADE BY EASTON
Weaknesses:
For all the kids who gave this a bad rating... DONT OVER TIGHTEN ANYTHING. this is the only weakness, tighten the shifter pods and brake levers enough so if you crash they will move on the bar instead of snapping it. AND USE A DANG TORQUE WRENCH ON THE STEM, after that you wont have any problems.
I work at a bike shop and we dont carry easton. SO i had to pay full price, i wouldnt have bought it if it was as poor quality as others say
real men dont use bar ends and use a torque wrench.
Easton is too good. everyone knows they make the best when it comes to components. they wouldnt make anything of lesser value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ray
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami, FL., USA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Oleta River State Park, Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
cycle world
Strengths:
lighter than a feather, very strong
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
TREK 7000
Bottom Line:
I have been riding for 2 years and decided to get a riser to improve comfort . What I didn't expect was how good this thing really is. My performance improved, hands and arm fatigue disappeared. It also has great dampening affect when going over the rocks and roots. For the kind of riding I do ( technical single track )I never thought it would make a difference, boy was I wrong. They are a bit pricey but well worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brendan Hurt
a Cross Country Rider
from PG, CA, USA Date Reviewed: July 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Sea Otter Classic XC Course
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
-They are better than every other handle bar to date. (Yes, even yours.) -They are super light, super stiff and super strong and they look tight. -Oh yes, they have "Monkey" printed on them "Monkey" is one of the best word in our language. If you need just one more reason to go out and get a pair just think "Monkey".
Weaknesses:
-Not every rider has them. (If I had they money and the means I would remedy this problem)
These bars rule. If you're not crazy about busting $100 for bars chew on this; these will be the last bars you ever need. Even with the high price tag you're paying for exactly what you get: god-like bars. P.S. get the risers because flat bars are crazy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich T
a Weekend Warrior
from Cincinnati, OH Date Reviewed: June 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Harbin, Huston, Landen, Ceasar
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
West Chester Cyclery - Cincinnati
Strengths:
Lite weight, stylish... very stong and rigid... no flex!!!
Weaknesses:
NONE... NONE... NONE...
Similar Products Used:
Titec
Bike Setup:
I have two bikes: 1999 Mongoose NX 8.1, Upgraded components: Chris King Headset, K2 Smart Fork, Easton stem, Easton Monkey Lite CT2 Carbon Fiber riser bars, Shimano XTR Rapid Rise Rear Derail., XT Crankset, XT Bottom Bracket, XTR Rapidfire shifter/brake lever combo, XTR 8 spd cassette, Wellgo 505 clipless pedals (will upgrade soon to Time Atacs when wellgos die...hehe), Spinergy SPOX M1(RED)Wheel Set(SWEET!!!), Michelin Wildgripper Hot S (red), Selle Italia Flite Gel Titanium saddle.
I have a new second bike now (June 2001). The Giant XTC NRS 1 - Bike of the Year 2001. I will be placing my review on the bike soon. Only upgrades were the Easton Monkeylite CT2 carbon fiber low riser bar and XTR shifter pods. SWEEET!
Bottom Line:
No reason what so ever to use any other handlebars but Easton Brand. They have made me a loyalist. The bars are all that and many makers try to do what they do with there carbons and have come short of Easton's products.
I have both versions of the riser carbon fiber... the high and low. I have had longterm experience with the high and just bought a low riser monkeylite for my Giant XTC NRS 1. Very trick!!!
Easton... great job on your components!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Puzman
a Cross Country Rider
from Wallingford, CT Date Reviewed: June 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
secret stash...
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
light weight strong, so far... perfect width and rise for xc riding
Weaknesses:
could use more sweep pricey
Similar Products Used:
bonty crowbar
Bike Setup:
Titus locomoto
Bottom Line:
Great bar, but the 8 degrees of sweep feels like less- sometimes feel some wrist pain. I think this bar would be even more comfy w/ 10-13 degrees of sweep, but that's me. I spent the extra $ for this bar when ordering my bike, but its kinda pricey as a replacement. Great if you want the absolute lightest bar out there, but seriously, there are plenty of options for less than half the price that will only add 70g to overall weight of bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ape Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
www.bikeman.com
Strengths:
Light Perfect Width and rise
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Titec XC Riser
Bike Setup:
Trick Jamis Dakar
Bottom Line:
I used to get sore wrists from my 25" Titec XC bar. I never get sore wrists from this bar. I really don't know why, but I'm guessing it is the shorter 24" width. I have been skeptical about the vibration dampening properties of carbon fiber bars, but I know this bar dampens vibration. Great bar I would recommend to anyone. Feels perfect to me. I'm pain free now when riding, well at least until I fall--another story. The bar is a bit expensive though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Angelini
a Weekend Warrior
from Monmouth, NJ Date Reviewed: June 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hartsthorne, Mahlon Dickerson, Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
Some place on the web from CA
Strengths:
Super light, Super strong, kick ass looks.
Weaknesses:
My fear of it breaking... Some peeps complain of the price...but for $85 you can't complain.
Similar Products Used:
Whatever the hunk was that my bike came with.
Bike Setup:
Fischer Joshua Z
Bottom Line:
As for the strength...there is no question that these are tough. Crashed in a "24hoursofadrenalin" race this past weekend in Vernon, NJ and broke my bike, my pride, and my as*. I hit the bars so hard I thought there was no way the carbon would make it...but they held up strong even though my stem twisted in the crash about 45 degrees. PROTECT THE ENDS OF THE BARS BY PUTTING NICKELS INSIDE YOUR GRIPS BEFORE PUTTING THE GRIPS ON. THIS WORKS TRUST ME!!
Who should buy it? If you want a strong yet superlight bar with some lift...get it (I ride XC and the extra hight and width over my last bar really improved my ride).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc Peot
a Cross Country Rider
from Arvada, Colorado Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Colorado Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Rigid, Strong, Light, Tough, Rigid, just the right width(26') and sweep. Oh, yeah.... they look sooo cool!
Weaknesses:
None -- unless you tighten your levers and shifters too much. Or your stem. Or, put bar-ends on them. What are "bar-ends", anyways? They are expensive -- but you get one hell of a handlebar.
Similar Products Used:
Kalloy, Answer, Race Face
Bike Setup:
Titus Racer-X, wheels, chain, etc.
Bottom Line:
This thing is gorgeous! The width and sweep feel as if it was molded to me in my sleep. It just feels so perfect. I like the fact that it dampens vibration, even though my AtomRace does a good job, on it's own. All I know is that with this bar, a Marzocchi and a Thompson stem ... my connection to the bike and the trail could not be any better. It is expensive -- but it is the most "far-out" execution of a handlebar, so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
t bone steak
a Cross Country Rider
from carnage Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Talisi
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
rainbow
Strengths:
light weight dampining
Weaknesses:
will break,bought product with understanding of lifetime warranty for breakage. i crashed they broke lbs said that the warranty only covers flat bars but that easton would let me have one for cost. what s up with that?
i bought this product expecting a lifetime crash replacement policy. was letdown by easton
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mohamed Azmi Zainudin
a Weekend Warrior
from Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia Date Reviewed: May 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Too many to mention
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
KSH Bicycle Pte Ltd
Strengths:
Strength,light weight & sturdy fiber construction. I've used mine close to 2 years now...apart from very minor surface scratches sustained from crashes & abuse, the Monkey Lite shows little sign of wear/tear. I've even crashed/endoed with the bike/bar whacking the ground hard...nothing broken,still in one piece! Lucky perhaps but this speaks well of the construction integrity of the Monkey Lite.
Weaknesses:
I've read manufacturing & integrity issues with the Monkey Lite from other reviewers but honestly, I couldn't find any fault...yet, with this Easton product.
Similar Products Used:
Azonic,Kore,Syncros,Scott,Bontrager.
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer.XTR Gruppo.Hayes Brakes.Sun Disk O Tek rims with Specialized S-Works Team/Control Master tyres.San Marco Era seat.Thomson seat/stem.
Bottom Line:
This is actually a follow up review of the one I posted back in August '99. It has held up very well, considering the abuse it has gone thru'. This is one fine & hard to fault product from the Easton folks. Still...4 Chilis as manufacturers keep improving/upgrading/refining their products all the time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
greg jensen
a Cross Country Rider
from waco, texas Date Reviewed: May 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the colorado, cameron park, waco
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
supergo.com
Strengths:
The planets strongest, and lightest handle bar, reduces high frequency vibration. (saves your elbow and wrist joints)
Weaknesses:
trouble finding kitchen sink
Similar Products Used:
the stock hunk of crap bontrager flat bar that came on my bike.
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek 8000 HT, everything is stock except this bar...
Bottom Line:
Just read this humongous thread of reviews. Buy this bar if your a gram counter or need to reduce high frequency vibrations from coming up from the ground , through your bike, and into your elbows and wrists, which is why I purchased it in the first place. Carbo Fiber is a child of the space program, It cant be all that bad.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Guillaume
a
from Pincourt, Québec Date Reviewed: May 9, 2001
this is by far the best bar on the planet, it's expensive but worth every penny. it's f****n lite and still strong as hell, plus, it looks damn good! if you can afford it, buy it!! I just love that bar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerry Giese
a Cross Country Rider
from Irving, TX, USA Date Reviewed: May 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Blue Bonnet bikes
Strengths:
Light, reduces vibrations, stiff, good looking.
Weaknesses:
Price. I mean $100 for a handle bar? wtf But thats what it costs so that what I paid.
Bike Setup:
GT XCR-2000, Marzocchi Z.3 QR.20 fork, Fox air vanilla float R rear shock.
Bottom Line:
This handle bar is the lightest that i've ever used. The way it takes out the vibrations combined with my marzocchi z.3 qr.20 makes for a very smooth ride. It makes my friend mad. He wants one so bad that he can hardly stand it. I haven't had it break yet but I did hear a slight cracking sound when I tightened the brake levers and shifters on to it. If your not planning on doing a lot of crashing then go ahead and buy this. You'll really enjoy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: April 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Extremely light and strong! Be sure to use a good stem for support and don't overtighten. Takes away trail vibrations but still remains super stiff.
Weaknesses:
Not the cheapest thing out there. But since you get what you pay for its worth every penny. Can use only certain bar ends if you need them.
Similar Products Used:
Answer Hyperlite
Bike Setup:
Ti Kona Hei-Hei
Bottom Line:
Killer bar that should last longer, be lighter, and have a big improvement in the handling than anything else on your bike. It comes in a 24" wide lo-rise and a 26" hi-rise. I got the lo-rise which fit me best.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross Country Rider
from NJ Date Reviewed: April 18, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Spec'ed on bike
Strengths:
Weight. Damping. No questions asked replacement for 1/2 retail.
Weaknesses:
Price. (if you pay MSRP)
Similar Products Used:
Various.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight X.
Bottom Line:
This is by far the best carbon riser bar on the market!
Buy this bar unless your a hardcore downhiller! (It may or may not hold up to that kind of stress.) And if you are a hardcore downhiller, what are you looking at superligt products for? Your bike wieghs 40lbs as it is, just get the strongest damn bar you can find. ;)
Value: 4 based on MSRP, I would give it 4-1/2 if I could. Overall: 5 because it simply is the BEST.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Cross Country Rider
from santa fe Date Reviewed: April 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
bikeworld
Strengths:
light, solid, strong, 26" wide on the riser
Weaknesses:
none whatsoever
Bottom Line:
ok, let me recount the patterns one would observe reading all the reviews on this bar; every instance of a problem with this handlebar has occurred from a mistake by the rider. no, you really can tighten shifters and brake levers on pretty well before you break the bar. you must have to be using a ridiculous amount of force to get it so tight that you weaken the bar. bar ends are ridiculous on a riser bar, if you wish to use them then get a higher stem and a straight bar. the whole purpose to having a wider bar such as this one is to eliminate the need for the extra leverage from bar ends. extra hand positions are unneccesary if you are set up right on your bike, then you won't have so much pressure on your hands. few racers still use bar ends, because they really don't serve much purpose other than comfort for a poor riding position. there is absolutely nothing wrong with this bar other than the lack of common sense by the users who break them. and its worth every penny.
$ 110.00
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