Dirty Bits: Syntace Flatforce stem and Vector carbon handlebars

Low ‘n’ Pro

Big wheels have gained massive popularity within XC and marathon circles but you often see some odd looking bike set-ups as a result. All’s generally well if you are close to six-feet tall but shorter riders often struggle to get the bars low enough—this is especially the case with riders with good flexibility who like a low, climbing-oriented position. Syntace now offers a range of solutions that will drop the bars without removing headset parts or using negative 17-degree stems. First-up, there’s the Flatforce stem; its offset design places the handlebar 12mm below the top of the headset—that’s a substantial drop and only 27mm of the steerer protrudes above the headset for a safer, cleaner finish. This unique stem comes in lengths from 44mm up to 111mm (the 66mm length weighs in at 116g). Need to go lower still? Syntace has expanded their line of Vector carbon handlebars and introduced new 5mm rise, 5mm drop and 10mm drop options. New naming will reflect the rise/drop options, with models such as High10 and Low10. Most Vector models are 740mm wide and can be cut to 700mm (the Low10 also comes in a 680mm option). Expect to pay $214 for the carbon bars and $145 for the stem.

EightyOneSpices (08) 8388 3581 / www.eightyonespices.com.au