OS bars? This should appeal to you.
I've finally found a satisfactory alternative to the Wald handlebar clamps I've been using for years. For those with oversized handlebars, this is a welcome development. Keep reading.
These clamps were recently brought to my attention by my friend Christophe, a messenger in SF. He says he's been using these clamps for five years and claims they work great. I believe him. Christophe has probably used my racks daily more than anyone in the world.
Since my duties have more to do lately with welding and sitting on my ass answering emails, I rely on feedback from guys like Christophe for thumbs up or down.
If you didn't know, the handlebar hardware normally included with my racks is only manufactured in one size. This has been a problem for people with oversized handlebars. These new clamps are a solution.
I like these a lot. Not only are they more versatile than my current Wald setup, but they're built as one piece of metal, not a two-piece assembly like Wald's. Nice.
Additionally, they offer shorter reach between the handlebars and rack. This may or may not be preferable, although I suppose one could install a spacer between the clamps as a remedy.
Downside? The metal is thinner, so they're slightly more flexible than Wald's. This, I believe, is not a big deal. Time and experience will tell what difference this makes.
Downside? The metal is thinner, so they're slightly more flexible than Wald's. This, I believe, is not a big deal. Time and experience will tell what difference this makes.
These clamps fit 31.8mm oversized bars plenty fine. With two rubber shims inside, the grip is excellent. No slippin'. No trippin'!
I'm still undecided whether I'll completely switch to these and ditch the Walds completely, or just offer them as an option. I'll probably just offer them as an option. Why not?
Let me know what you think. Your input is welcome.
Do they need to be shimmed for smaller diameter handlebars? If so, then you'll probably want to offer the option, and then see which ones are more popular.
ReplyDeleteYes. These are available in a few sizes. I'd offer all possible sizes if they were to be a regular thing.
DeleteI like these mostly for the smaller distance between the rack and bars. I could trouble you for some, but I also bet I could track some down myself -- do you have more information, like what they're called or what they are manufactured for? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteUnderstood. Shorter reach is nicer, although I'd want some sort of spacer with straight bars. This is why Wald changed their bracket design a few years ago, adding an inch or so reach. Too much knuckle crunching.
DeleteThese new brackets are conduit hangers. Google it. Super simple, available everywhere. Even though the Wald stuff is obtainable through any bike shop, it's swell to know these can be had probably easier. As much as I like the Wald legacy, this will make me more independent, and make my racks more "user friendly" or whatever.
Loving the shorter reach and would buy a set just for that reason, also like the one piece aspect. I have had a couple CETMA's and have always been satisfied with past engineering, I upgrade with every evolution.
ReplyDeleteThanks very much. I really appreciate that. I'll send you a set. Convent Avenue?
DeleteThat is nice of you. I am in California. First rack was in the Gallery, an Ital Vega super speciale with Honjos and the CETMA decal showing. I think it says Pat California. Anyway, my address is p.o. box nine for six, alamo ca zipp code is nine four five o seven. But now I want to buy the non P clamp evolution! just saw the post, great idea!
DeleteDefinitely interested in getting a set of these. Will you be selling them through your site or can you provide an alternative link?
ReplyDeleteYep, I'll have 'em on the site real soon. As soon as I have the time to organize all the info and post it, they'll be available.
DeleteThanks.