Barcelona brand’s new bar sneaks under the 100g mark in a 740mm width

By Nick Clark

Published: Monday, 20 February 2023 at 12:00 am

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The Gemini Wässat is the world’s lightest cross-country handlebar, weighing just 99g in a 740mm width, according to the brand.

The bar is handmade in Gemini’s Barcelona workshop and can be manufactured at any custom length between 680mm and 800mm.

Gemini says the claimed 99g weight of the new Wässat cross-country bar is measured to a 2g tolerance.

The brand has incorporated technology and experience obtained from its Pröpus one-piece handlebar into its first non-integrated bar.

The Wässat features no rise, a 5-degree upsweep, a 7-degree back sweep and a 31.8mm diameter. 

Gemini says it designed the bar to give riders who prefer a rotation in their setups, which can’t be provided by the Pröpus, an option to use its bars.

An ovalised section on the bar, which Gemini calls the GMN, is claimed to add vertical absorption while contributing horizontal stiffness. This results in fewer fatigue-causing vibrations and more responsive steering, according to the brand.

Gemini

A bladder is used in the construction process to ensure the carbon fibres compact with the mould to avoid any defects.

The brand says this means the structure of the bar remains the same throughout the lengths.

The Wässat is available in an ‘ultra-lightweight’ layup for riders lighter than 90kg, while the Performance DC bars have a weight limit of 120kg.

Gemini claims this is the world’s lightest XC handlebar.

Gemini

The Wässat bar is available in either a gloss or matt finish, with Gemini saying this last layer adds 1.9 grams.

Unlike on some lighter bars, Gemini has applied its decals under the lacquer, with the intention of protecting them from the elements.

The handlebar is priced at €219.90 and we’ve asked Gemini when it will be available. We’ll update this article when we know more.

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