Bits

I now have the opportunity to upgrade to oversized one of my older bikes cockpit, I have the stem but now require a new 31.8 Handlebar

In use currently an old ITM Millenium (Italian Bend) 46 Wide aluminium bar which I have never had any problems with. Is it me or does nobody seem to do a 46 (Measured outside to outside) Carbon bar (Must be Italian bend as I do not like anatomic and preferably have a slight flat on the top) . I have my eye on a Deda Newton which appears to be everything measurement wise that I need except its not Carbon and has no flat section on top and I am beginning to think that it does not really matter as weight wise it seems "on the nose".

Does anyone have any reccomendations? Is it worth going Carbon and would a 44 (Measured centre to centre be the same as 46 edge to edge, all things considered?) why Manufaturers choose different measurement techniques is frustrating...

Anyone out there using a flat top bar with good results or is it just show?

Suggestions required...

How wide are your shoulders?

 Carbon for weight or stiffness?

Most carbons are NO lighter than good Ali bars and about 3 times the price.

Ps most pro's are on Alloy bars

Flattest bar with a curve I know are race lite VR and above from Bontrager. 

Funnily enough shoulder width is just, and I mean just over 46cm and I do require a very stiff front end as I can make most bar/Stem combos flex, including my current setup (Another reason to go oversized)...

The difference in c-2-c vs e-2-e is about 2.5cm - so that the Newton 44cm I just put on my bike is 41.5cm c-2-c

Go for alloy; Deda Newton is excellent. 46 edge to edge is roughly 44 c-c. No carbon for bars for me, expensive and breakable in case of fall. FSA has bars with flat tops.

Thanks Angel, I had just about come to that conclusion. It's a shame I did not get more feedback...

Angel, the handlebar is for the Pegoretti Fina Estampa, we are in the same camp on that one as you have a Pegoretti I believe...

Look at changing your stem if flex is a problem.  I would recommend you get a Thomson as it will have the strength you desire

PS Bontrager do a 46cm C to C bar About £40 in Alloy and £120 upwards in Carbon 

Yes, I have a duende with a cinelli bar. It is a joy to ride. How does the fina ride? (I think it is alu, isn ´t it?).

Angel, I have to say very stiff in the bottom bracket area (One of the original reasons that I chose it) and a very relaxed ride, good for long rides. It absorbs road buzz and vibrations very well.

In all fairness I chose well, unlike my Pinarello Prince which in comparison 'kicks and bucks' like a mule. There is only one speed to ride the Prince and that is flat out and hang on.

"Oh" the Pegoretti is Aluminium, Scandium to be correct...

 The choice between carbo or alu is more of a wallet decision.  Both offers the best the in agility, stiffness and weight, though the carbo obviously has the edge in the 'bike light' department.   I strongly recommmend that you check the  Easton 'Delta Force' carbon bullbar, (-which I had installed and used for more than a year now.)   This  handlebar is largely flat except for the mid section , a design solution for riders who demands multiple handlebar positions for long rides.  It is aerodynamic and skillfully hides the brake cables through its internal hook-up configuration.   My  only problem with it are the hoards of other bikers who would endlessly ask me about  its weight,  the...blah bla blah.   Design and quality workmanship is its best feature.   The Easton 'delta force' handlebar  is a design masterpiece and can never go out of style.

Asterix, I went with FSA-K Wing in the end, it's worked out OK, multi-positional, lightish and looks good. Just as well it was a Birthday present as they like most Carbon components are over priced. Will it break? only time will tell, I have a Carbon Stem as well.

  FULL  SPEED  AHEAD !!!!!     Cheers!