The Zipp SL-70 XPLR Handlebar is purpose-built for modern gravel riding, where control, comfort, and efficiency matter as much as outright speed. Designed to meet the demands of long-distance gravel adventures, technical descents, and mixed-surface racing, the SL-70 XPLR blends Zipp’s deep experience in road cockpit design with geometry tailored specifically for off-pavement performance. The result is a handlebar that feels intuitive on smooth roads yet inspires confidence when terrain becomes unpredictable.

At the foundation of the SL-70 XPLR is a carefully engineered aluminum construction that balances strength, durability, and weight. While carbon handlebars often dominate the performance conversation, Zipp chose premium aluminum for its reliability and impact resistance—qualities especially valuable in gravel environments where crashes, vibration, and rough surfaces are part of the experience. This material choice delivers consistent performance and long-term dependability without sacrificing ride quality.

The SL-70 XPLR features a short reach and shallow drop, allowing riders to transition easily between hand positions and maintain control over extended periods. This compact geometry reduces fatigue during long days in the saddle and keeps the drops accessible when descending or navigating technical sections. Riders spend more time in a powerful, comfortable position rather than stretching or compromising posture to reach the controls.

A defining characteristic of the SL-70 XPLR is its carefully tuned flare. The drops widen outward to provide additional leverage and stability when riding rough terrain, while the hoods remain in a familiar road position for efficient pedaling on smoother surfaces. This balance allows the bar to feel natural during steady cruising while delivering enhanced control when conditions demand it.

Ergonomics play a central role in the handlebar’s design. The tops feature a subtle flattening that improves comfort during long climbs or endurance efforts, giving the hands a broader surface to rest against. This shape also works well with modern bar tape, allowing riders to build a cockpit that prioritizes vibration damping and grip without excessive bulk.

Compatibility is another strength of the SL-70 XPLR. It is optimized for modern gravel and road drivetrains, including electronic shifting systems, and supports clean, straightforward cable routing. This makes it easy to integrate into contemporary builds while maintaining a tidy cockpit and straightforward maintenance.

Despite its gravel-specific focus, the SL-70 XPLR does not feel overly specialized. Riders who mix paved roads, dirt paths, and rough backroads will appreciate how seamlessly it transitions between environments. It offers the control benefits gravel riders need without sacrificing the efficiency and familiarity road riders expect.

Whether used for endurance gravel events, fast adventure rides, or mixed-surface training, the Zipp SL-70 XPLR Handlebar delivers confidence where it matters most. It’s a component designed to support long hours, varied terrain, and the evolving demands of modern drop-bar riding—proving that thoughtful geometry and robust construction can elevate the ride just as much as weight savings alone.