New Bars

Published on February 28, 2026 at 3:15 PM

Could replacing drops with upright bars with a graceful sweep make my whole body feel more relaxed and comfortable without sacrificing (what amounts to me as) performance?

Enthusiastically YES!

All that, plus wings for soaring.

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Comments

Randy Larson
a month ago

VO Granola bars? After 20k miles on my Salsa Fargo with drop bars I changed to Jones Bend bars (not the loop version) and really like them. The Jones bars seem to work well with a bike with a short reach. Do we have to admit that maybe our age plays a role? Enjoy your Spring riding!
Randy

pondero
a month ago

Yes, I love the Jones bar shape. I just put a loop bar on my Chumba hardtail. It was a big part of the motivation to try this. Does "old age play a role"? Let's call it "wisdom".

Tim
a month ago

I noticed that I seem to be reaching for the upright bikes these days. And those road bikes get stuffed further in the corner.

pondero
a month ago

Exactly! And why not? At my 10mph pace, aero is laughable.

Seth
a month ago

I like this look on the Ponderosa!

pondero
a month ago

Thanks! I miss the classic Ponderosa look a little, but this seems like an appropriate pondero adaptation .

jasonmytail
a month ago

Very nice! I only use the drops occasionally in headwinds, often I'll finish a bigger ride without ever touching them. Makes me wonder why I deal with the less optimal brake lever and shifter ergonomics of drop bars sometimes.

I'm building a new all-surface "drop bar" bike this year (Stooge Rambler) for bikepacking and general adventures, but the geo will work for me if I want to switch to swept bars like you've done here too

pondero
12 days ago

The more optimal brake lever and shifter were part of my decision process, and I'm pleasantly surprised how well these comfort bars work on the (easier) trails I ride.

I love the Stooge Rambler and I need to catch up and see your handiwork!

Anniebikes
12 days ago

I'm a fan of these bar, thanks to you.
They look great here.

pondero
12 days ago

Wouldn't it be great if everyone could be supremely comfortable with their bike position?! So many smiles!