FSA

Gossamer Wing Compact

FSA is credited with pioneering the "compact" handlebar movement, and its Gossamer Wing Compact is a shining example of such a bar that refreshingly comes in at a relatively low price point. Its construction consists of a double-butted 6066 alloy that's shot-peened, a process that strengthens the material and is a technique often used in the aerospace industry.

Shot-peening involves firing ceramic pellets at the metal in order to increase corrosion and fatigue resistance by up to 1,000 times. This means that it's strong enough to safeguard your life on a transatlantic flight or your aspirations on a course as punishing as the cobbles of Roubaix, where the alloy Gossamer line has enjoyed the top step of the podium.

The moderate 125 millimeters of drop and 80 millimeters of reach put these handlebars in the realm of short and shallow. The drops are also angled by four degrees in order to mimic the natural position of your wrists while you're in them. It's a subtle difference from parallel drops, but one that becomes apparent the longer that your ride goes on. The clamping point balloons up to 31.8 millimeters to maximize stiffness at the point of power transfer while keeping the overall weight down. A 34mm wide ergo flattened top sections provide an ample platform to rest your hands on while the 110mm wide round center section makes it easy to mount accessories. Final details include the bead blasted anodized finish and laser etched graphics.