I’m looking into getting a new set of extensions. From the looks of it, the S bend bars look like they’d be uncomfortable after an long period of time in the saddle.
Are the S bend bars that much more aero than the traditional J bend bars. The two bars I’m comparing are the Vision Carbon Pro (standard bend) and the Vision Carbon Pro Race (S bend)
If the S bends are really that much more aero, then I’ll consider them. But if its only a small difference and the “cool” factor, then I’d rather go for comfort and look less “cool”.
Like many issues relating to comfort on the bike, this is an individual question. If I had to draw a line and generalize I’d say S-bends (aka r-bends, chicane) are most popular among 70.3 or shorter, whereas IM folks tend to gravitate towards J-bends (aka L-bends or ski-bends). L-bends put your wrists in a more biomechanically-neutral position – look at your hands when they fall relaxed to your sides. S-bends put tension on your wrists and allow you to activate your biceps more as you pull on the bars and anchor for power.
Try and find a shop where they will install a set-up on a Serotta Size-Cycle or equivalent and let you put some hard efforts in (like we do) or buy the S-bends and put in a some time on it – if it doesn’t work, count the resale cost as part of your personal experiment.
There is an article out there written by Kraig Willett, one of the gurus at the wind tunnel in San Diego that covers the aerodynamic impact of hand positioning.
Clubmate of mine rides S bends rotated so they are flat, and rotates his wrists flat as well. Finds it very comfortable.
Apologies if that description doesn’t make any sense.
I would like to try a set before purchase, to see if I like them, but am perfectly happy with a standard bend, so it could be change just for change’s sake.
I just did the switch from Vision j bends…to Profile s bends…it is taking a bit to get ued to…but it is not bad…my left wrist aches a little but I do feel like I can generate more power quicker.