【Smog Cutter Bar】Long live wide drop bars!

2022/1/25 宇野翼

I’m not a "year man" (born in the year of the zodiac sign), and I didn't pull a Daikichi (Great Blessing) at the shrine... but this year, I, Uno—who has been at Circles for 5 years (going on 6)—have sworn to challenge myself with various things, and I have some happy news for everyone!

Born from the wild imaginations of SimWorks and GOLDEN SADDLE CYCLERY in Los Angeles, the legendary handlebar created about four years ago—the Smog Cutter Bar—has circled the globe once, twice, and has returned in a new form! Surprisingly, it has grown significantly from its original width and has now entered the big leagues at a massive 530mm!

I was so excited that I wanted to be the first to blog about it, but then I realized, "I haven't really written many product introduction articles before," and my train of thought came to a sudden halt...

After thinking about it, I immediately reported the news to Kyle, the manager of GOLDEN SADDLE CYCLERY. He replied right away, saying, "I can't wait to read it!"

Truthfully, I intended to ask Kyle for advice on how to write it, but it seems that didn't come across well (lol). But, being a super positive person, I interpreted that as him telling me to write it however I like.

So, while Kyle’s anticipation is still fresh, and while your excitement is still high, I’d like to present to you the piping-hot arrival of the Smog Cutter Bar in its new size!

[SimWorks by NITTO] Smog Cutter Bar / GSC Limited

Material : Heat Treated Aluminum
Width : 530mm (center – center at ends)
Center diam. : 31.8mm
Bar diam. : 23.8mm
Reach : 78mm
Drop : 128mm
Weight : 418g
Color : Stealth Grey Anodized
Price : ¥13,750(tax in)

View on WEBSHOP

First off, I understand that the original 480mm (center-to-center) Smog Cutter Bar is already a formidable, wide handlebar. It’s a bar I personally love—the reach and drop are both shallow, making it easy to shift positions between the hoods and the drops while riding, which I feel really helps pull out a rider's full potential.

Even Wider Handlebar Width

I’ve been using the 480mm on my MASH / AC-1 for commuting and regular rides. It’s a one-of-a-kind bar that makes me feel like I could just keep pedaling comfortably forever.

Since I can’t avoid hilly routes on my commute, the extra width allows for dynamic out-of-the-saddle climbing, and on descents, the width gives me a solid grip on the drops, which provides a great sense of security. That’s a major factor when it comes to rider safety, isn’t it?

Honestly, I have broad shoulders, and I often felt that standard handlebars were a bit lacking. But since I found the Smog Cutter Bar, I haven’t felt any discomfort at all, and I’ve been riding comfortably. Also, Shige-san is smaller and doesn't have exceptionally broad shoulders, but he still tears through everything from flats to rough roads; seeing that, I think this is a bar anyone can try, regardless of their build.

Even though we were satisfied with 480mm, Kyle insisted on going even wider, so he created the super-wide 530mm (center-to-center) size. You might hear people from all corners saying, "Isn't that pushing it a bit too far?" but that's absolutely not the case!

How to Utilize the 530mm Drop Handlebar

I believe this is a versatile bar that can handle any situation, providing excellent maneuverability and stability. It's great for ripping through rough roads in Tracklocross, descending trails with a mountain-drop approach, or serving as a companion for long-distance rides. It's the kind of piece that expands your options for how you enjoy cycling.

So, I hope you’ll take the opportunity to pick up this handlebar, and I’d be happiest if more people could experience the joy of a wide bar and lead an even more fun cycling life.

Thank you for listening to Uno’s hot news until the end.
It’s still a cold season, but please take care and stay warm. See you at the shop or out at the races!!