Hed Aerobars vs Zipp Aerobars?

Triathlon Forum
1

vs Bontrager??? Any comments as to which is the best??

Thanks,
Chris

2

vision alum bar. so sexy, so aero, so cheap. pair with aero extensions of your choosing then youre good to go.

3

This has been knocked around a little bit, I would try searching.

I think an important thing to remember is that Hed is essentially a clip on system; more comparable to the Zipp Vuka Clip/basebar in that regard.

Also, when comparing the 3; Bonty, Zipp and Hed; they all have slightly different arm rest pad heights. Hed being the lowest and I believe Bonty is the highest. If you are on the extreme of either having no spacers and a slammed stem, or a load of spacers and an upturned stem; then fit considerations may make the choice easier.

4

vs Bontrager??? Any comments as to which is the best??

Thanks,
Chris

Among the well made aerobars - and I’d consider all models mentioned to be well made - the big things to consider are:

  • X-Y brake hood location. How usable is the pursuit position?
  • Brake comfort. How comfortable/usable are the brake levers?

It’s not a position you should need a lot, but when you need it, you NEED it.

5

vs. Oval Concept.

6

With Hed, it depends on which flavor you are referring to. There is a big difference between Vantage 8 and Blackdog Drops.

I have owne both Hed and Zipp, as well as Xentis and Vision.

I cracked the Xentis because they were very flexible and I hit the brick road at St. Anthonys and they snapped. Way too flexible, but damn comfortable.

The Hed Vantage 8 is very comfortable and the brakes are easy to reach, not the best for pursuit position.

The Hed Blackdog Drops are ULTRA aggressive and best utilized on hilly courses or if you never intend to get out of the aero-position.

The Visions are as basic as you can get, which is not a bad thing. Very customizable.

The Zipp Vuka Aero - I used them for IMLP, switched to Hed for a bit and Xentis, then ran screaming back to Zipp. They are fully integrated, slightly customizable, sturdy, and comfortable. For flat courses and anytime you want to remain in the aero position while screaming at Mach 5 with your hair on fire (yes, I stole that from Top Gun), the Zipp Vuka Aero is the best out there…I think. A bit pricey, but ebay and ST classifieds are your friend.