The decision to ban the use of aero bars and extensions during the elite men’s and women’s races at Unbound Gravel 2023 has sent riders on a quest to find alternative ways to add comfort when adopting a more aero riding position. During the 200-mile course of the elite event, aerodynamics play a critical role in determining the outcome. In previous years, aero bars or extensions were considered essential tools among top racers, such as last year’s winner Ivar Slik, who equipped his Wilier Rave SLR with custom 3D printed extensions.
However, the decision to ban aero bars and extensions has left elite riders scrambling to find other ways to reduce their frontal profile and improve their aerodynamics when racing through the Flint Hills. With pack racing becoming a common feature in gravel races, solo efforts are being replaced, and riders are looking for different ways to achieve the desired results.
One alternative that riders have turned to in the absence of aero bars and extensions is the “puppy paws” position. By resting their forearms on the bar tops, riders can still be in a comfortable yet aerodynamic position. Here are three adaptations to the bar tops that have caught our attention in the run-up to the race.
Innokenty Zavyalov’s Lauf Seigla
Innokenty Zavyalov has adapted his Vision Metron 4D bars by adding extra tape and padding towards the stem. Interestingly, the outer section of the tops is left untaped, even with the extra vibrations that will be transmitted from the gravel when riding with hands on the bar tops.
Dylan Johnson’s Factor Ostro Gravel
Dylan Johnson has gone the extra mile by fully taping the Black Inc one-piece bar/stem on his Factor Ostro Gravel, despite the likely loss of efficiency for his aero profile tops. The central section has been heavily over-taped, providing some extra padding when resting his forearms on the tops.
Kerry Werner’s Kona Libre
Kerry Werner has purpose-designed protection on the Coefficient RR Carbon bars on his Kona Libre. While the bars have a 12-degree backsweep and 7-degree flare to the drops, they also slope downwards by 15 degrees through the tops. There are two positions on the underside of the tops in which Shimano satellite shifters can be sited.
Aside from these adaptations for riding puppy paws, there are other innovative hacks that we expect to see on bikes at Unbound Gravel that can improve riders’ chances of winning the race.
Ahead of the elite men’s and women’s races at Unbound Gravel 2023, aerodynamics have taken center stage in determining the outcome of the race. Although the ban on aero bars and extensions has challenged riders to find creative solutions to improve their aerodynamics, they have remained undaunted, pushing the limits of what is possible by adapting their bikes to suit their needs. With the right equipment, adapted training regimes, and innovative hacks, riders still have a fighting chance to emerge victorious in one of the most grueling races in the world.
