A project that began before COVID-19 has finally come to fruition, five years later.
As you know, Rick Hunter, framebuilder at HUNTER CYCLES, introduced a stock frame (and a track frame, at that) last year for the first time in quite a while. This time, we're excited to introduce the long-awaited release of a new handlebar he designed: the Smooth Move Drop Bar.
A Drop Bar That Blends Old and New
Developed as a fresh take on a classic shape, this bar is inspired by the form of the CINELLI 65 Criterium, a handlebar that has claimed victory after victory in some of the world's toughest races. Rick has reinterpreted it in his own way and added a new approach, making this a true blend of old and new.
Of course, it's made by Japan's renowned NITTO.
A Deep Drop and Long Reach Offer a Range of Positions
The top bend of the drop flows smoothly into the brake hoods, while its generous curve gives your wrists more room to move during sprints and technical riding.
This deep, wide drop bar offers an upright position when gripping the flat top. You can also reach forward to hold the hoods, rest your wrists on the top bend, or lower your posture and grip the drops. The varied hand positions also allow for body positions suited to a range of riding styles and situations.
“Not for Everyone,” Says Rick
With a deep drop and long reach that run counter to trends of recent years, this is definitely not a handlebar for everyone, as Rick himself says.
He made it because he felt he needed it—a very Rick-like item. He started by making the widest size, 530 mm, for himself, with 490 mm and 510 mm options planned for release in the future.
HUNTER CYCLES Smooth Move / Drop Bar
Color : Silver, Black
Material : Heat Treated Aluminum
Width : 530 mm (center – center at ends)
※515 mm at the hoods
Reach : 88 mm
Drop : 150 mm
Flare angle : 87 deg.
Center Clamp : 31.8 mm
Bar diam. : 23.8 mm
Weight : 410g
Made in Japan by NITTO
Price : ¥14,300 (tax included)
Rick got in touch right away, excited to say, “I installed it on my bike and went for a ride—it felt amazing!”
Whether you put it on a CX or gravel bike, or choose it as a new option for a drop-bar ATB build, how would you set yours up?
