Ritchey has built their reputation on straightforward alloy components that get the geometry right without asking you to pay for carbon, and the Comp Flat Handlebar is exactly that formula applied to a mountain cockpit. Double-butted 6061 aluminum construction with a 31.8mm clamp diameter, reversible +/-5mm rise, and 22.2mm grip section covers the specs modern trail and XC riders actually care about. The reversible design is the practical hook here — flip the bar 180 degrees and you swap 5mm of rise for 5mm of drop without buying a second bar or a new stem.

The Comp Flat comes in two width and sweep combinations depending on how you like your hands positioned. The 710mm width runs a 5-degree backsweep, and the 720mm width steps up to a 9-degree backsweep . That's a meaningful distinction: the 5-degree option keeps your hands closer to a straight-across position for XC pedaling efficiency, while the 9-degree sweep rotates your wrists into a more relaxed angle that most riders find easier on longer trail days. Pick the geometry that matches how you ride rather than defaulting to the wider option.

Double-butting is where Ritchey earns the Comp label. The process leaves more material at the stem clamp and grip transitions where stress concentrates, then thins the wall through the center section where loads are lower. You end up with a bar that hits roughly 276 grams without giving up the impact tolerance you need on a hardtail or short-travel full-suspension bike. The bar is also compatible with bar ends if you're running a rigid XC setup or want the extra hand position for long climbs.... Read More