Flared drops have become the default geometry for gravel handlebars, but the degree of flare and how it's executed varies significantly between designs. The Ritchey WCS Beacon XL takes the flare concept further than most with 24 degrees of outward angle in the drops, creating a substantially wider grip position when you're descending or riding in the hooks. That extra width translates to increased leverage and stability on loose or technical terrain where you need more control authority than a road-geometry bar provides.

The XL designation indicates this is the wider version of Ritchey's Beacon platform, with the flared drops creating an effective width that exceeds the nominal center-to-center measurement at the hoods. The drops themselves feature a compact 70mm reach and 115mm drop, keeping the lever position accessible without requiring an excessive stretch from the tops. This matters on mixed-surface rides where you're constantly moving between hand positions as the terrain changes.

Bar top geometry uses 12 degrees of backsweep to angle your wrists into a more neutral position during long efforts on the hoods or tops. Combined with the flared drops, you get three distinct hand positions that each serve different terrain and effort levels. The WCS-grade 7050 aluminum construction uses butted tubing to reduce weight in low-stress areas while maintaining material thickness where clamping forces and steering loads concentrate.... Read More