As indicated I’m on the hunt for the perfect handlebar. A little while ago I was all excited I thought I’d found it. Now I’m sad after I figured out it won’t work. So I’m hoping one of you fine folks knows of something like it that will.
So what bar was I excited about, the [Origin8 Strongbow](https://www.bikeconnection.net/product/origin8-strongbow-handlebars-325238-1.htm), it fit all my key criteria with a bonus of the extra loop for more goodies and good times. Unfortunately that extra bonus loop also makes it not work, it’s too wide. One key criteria is being narrow, like 630mm, OK sure just cut the bar, except I need to fit stuff on that bar. To fit grips and controls the narrowest portion that can accept the mounting of controls can be no wider than 300mm. Using pics I measure the Strongbow at 350mm wide where the loop attaches, no good. I could make it work, tighten up controls placement, a narrower grip and end up a little wider, but then it’d be a compromise and not my perfect bar.
My key criteria besides narrow, 15-17 deg of back sweep and no rise. I need the narrow and back sweep so I don’t further mess up my already surgically repaired shoulders. Lack of rise is to fit the bike, the front end with 29″ wheels and a tall fork is tall enough as is. I have it set up with a drop stem, be silly to put a riser bar on a dropped stem.
My current leader bar wise is the [SQ Labs, 30x 16](https://sqlab-usa.com/products/3ox-16-degree-aluminum-mtb-handlebar) or [Salsa Bend Deluxe 17deg](https://www.salsacycles.com/gear/bend_deluxe). I used images to try and figure the minimum mounting width on the SQ and got 320mm, better not perfect. I have no idea on the Salsa but it looks a lot like the SQ. I’ve sent emails to both outfits asking them to find that width for me.
Neither of these though have the loop, I’d have to figure something else out. If so then so be it, but as I said I’m hoping one of you fine folks might know of something I haven’t yet been able to find. There’s the [BLB Hobo Loop](https://www.bricklanebikes.co.uk/hobo-loop-bar-black), but it’s so much like the Strongbow I’m assuming it’s identical.
Any ideas?
​
by Heavy_Gap_5047