I have been thinking the same thing so thanks for posting. The thing I keep wondering is if the tri rig closed cup pads are comfortable on the fly? I can imagine one just get used to it when you get them but I am trying to figure out if the closed back is the right call.
I almost feel as if the closed back is limiting in your setup (on the fly). Meaning if you need to adjust your forearm position on a longer ride, you are locked in to that position versus being able to slide down to a new forearm position. I am going with the open back for that reason. Plus, Iāve never had an issue riding where I slide back so I donāt see the utility in being locked in from moving backwards.
Have a Speedmax CF SLX (last years model before they released the disc brake version) and while I have replaced the included Ergon pads with the 51 Speedshop ones, I would rather have more āreal estateā for my forearm. The 51 speedshop cups are very comfortable, but Iād like something that is much longer. I see that TriRig has the open (and closed) longer arm cups. What other options are there? I have their regular arm cups on a backup TT bike and like their product so Iām good with going with the TriRig setupā¦but, Iām sure there are plenty other brands but I havenāt a clue who all sells them in this price point and would like to start researching all the options. TIA!
Did you end up getting the Tri rig extensions, or what did you get and how is it?
Have a Speedmax CF SLX (last years model before they released the disc brake version) and while I have replaced the included Ergon pads with the 51 Speedshop ones, I would rather have more āreal estateā for my forearm. The 51 speedshop cups are very comfortable, but Iād like something that is much longer. I see that TriRig has the open (and closed) longer arm cups. What other options are there? I have their regular arm cups on a backup TT bike and like their product so Iām good with going with the TriRig setupā¦but, Iām sure there are plenty other brands but I havenāt a clue who all sells them in this price point and would like to start researching all the options. TIA!
Did you end up getting the Tri rig extensions, or what did you get and how is it?
I did. I actually spent quite a bit of time talking with Ben to make sure I was getting exactly what I was after. I ordered the open back scoops and with a few suggestions from Ben, I have them dialed in perfectly. They give that little extra layer of support/comfort for the fore arms. And as an AGāer, I am not always in a perfectly locked position so the ability to move fore/aft on them and still have a considerable amount of attachment point was a plus for me. I donāt have any long rides yet on the bike to give a more thorough review (been on my trail bike lately) but Iām excited to see how they are on longer rides in the coming months. My initial impressions are they are exactly what I was looking for.
Very welcome. Let me know if you need any pics, etc. Glad to help out. Ben gave me quite a bit of his time and Iām happy to pass that along as well. Cheers.
In terms of comfort and aerodynamics which arm rests (Culprit, Tririg, PD ergo+) are the best?
Alternatively would PD ASC 43 combined with one of a small arm rests be a better good aero and comfort option?
The 43ASC offers a small aerodynamic advantage, comfort depends on what you prefer. Something like Culprit gives you a lot more contact area forwards of the elbow, then a gap at the wrist.
The 43ASC gives you more contact at the wrist, then a gap to the pad - this can be minimised depending on how long your arms are. Pairs very nicely with a Race+ armrest
I designed the ASC series, so obviously I like contact up near the wrist.
But if you want the most contact area near the elbow - thatās going to be Culprit.
Iām currently using TriRig mini closed cups with asc52 extensions and quite like the combination.
Iām thinking of switching to the longer closed scoops also from tririg, but will have to get some angled spacers to angle the pads up relative to the extensions
That is what I run and love em. I have the asc43.
I am using tririg pads only because my PD pads were āborrowedā by a rider that saw them on the mechanics bench.
Apparently winning 7 grand tours makes that ok.
I copied the OPs initial post to ChatGPT, this is what it thinks -
There are a variety of long arm cup options available for aero bars that provide additional real estate for your forearms. Hereās a rundown of alternatives to consider alongside the TriRig open and closed arm cups:
1. TriRig
Youāve already noted the quality of TriRig products, and their extended arm cups (both open and closed) are excellent for maximizing forearm support. They are well-regarded for comfort and adjustability.
2. Drag2Zero
Drag2Zero arm cups are known for their extensive surface area and ergonomic design, making them a solid choice for riders seeking more forearm support. Their designs cater to maximizing aerodynamic gains and comfort.
3. Watts Factory
Watts Factory offers extended armrest designs with a focus on aerodynamics and fit customization. Their arm cups have received praise for both adjustability and the ability to accommodate larger forearms.
4. Velocite Armrests
Velocite produces larger armrest options aimed at triathletes and TT riders. They provide a wider platform with a lightweight build, ideal for long-duration efforts.
5. Pro AeroFuel Armrests
Shimanoās Pro line includes the AeroFuel armrests, which offer extended padding and surface area. They can be a cost-effective option and are widely available.
6. Aerocoach
Aerocoachās armrests, particularly the āAlignā series, are designed with a broader profile for comfort and stability. They also allow for micro-adjustments to dial in fit.
7. Cup Customization
If none of the off-the-shelf options feel quite right, some riders opt for custom armrest solutions. Brands like Raceware Direct and Custom Bike Fit offer 3D-printed arm cups tailored to your specifications.
8. Cee Gees Cushyās
While primarily known for their pads, Cee Geesā extended armrest pads could be combined with a larger cup setup to increase the contact area without a complete arm cup replacement.
Considerations When Choosing:
Compatibility: Ensure the arm cups fit your Speedmaxās extensions or consider if adapters are needed.
Adjustability: Look for multi-directional adjustments to fine-tune your aero position.
Comfort: Test or research padding and cup curvature to match your forearm anatomy.
Itās great that youāre exploring multiple options to improve comfort and aerodynamics. Starting with TriRig is a safe bet, but experimenting with brands like Drag2Zero or Aerocoach could also give you the added real estate and customization youāre seeking.
Just got a pair of TriRig Ultimate SL and I can say, that after like 15 years and god knows how many hours in aero, this is a revelation to me, in terms of comfort. Total game changer. Sturdy quality, easy installation options. Flex a bit more than my old setup on Argon E119 Tri+ with standard bars and Evolve cups, but still feels safe. But worth every penny IMO
Here is a listing of bars I started, updated for 2024:
