first impressions are that if the differences are so subtle that blake just barely recognizes them, then there is no way it's going to impact my riding and i'll stick with the cheaper ones

Definitely more Blake on the show! I think there can be a big difference in both carbon and alloy, but after seeing a couple of carbon bars break( from fellow riders) I will stay with a nice alloy...but a nice pair. Great test!

I noticed a major reduction in vibrations with a carbon bar. Felt like I could track the front wheel better. Not sure if it was real or not but it felt real to me, and that's worth something.

Recently switched from carbon Deity Skywire bars to a OneUp Carbon bar and my wrists are happier for it. The Deity bars are brutally unforgiving. For the next blind test, have the OneUp bars vs. Alloy bars. Would be curious of the findings.

Yes please - more Blake trying Tech stuff, and best with Anna's 'supervision'...🤣

I‘d say, it is hard to compare! Some Alu-bars feel great, some feel horrible! Same goes for the carbon bars… The worst thing that industry brought us, was the switch from 31.8 to 35mm handlebars!!! A 31.8 will ALWAYS feel so much better - and than you can search for some more comfort in the bar itself… maybe carbon or maybe alu can be the best choice then!

I Paid 60$ For My New CF Bars .... The Feel Is Perfect

Ive tried both, and theres not much difference....But the alloy bars can be powdercoated / anodized and the different colors can trigger the comfort centers in the brain, making the alloy bars more comfortable from a psychological standpoint....And, the psychological part far outweighs any actual real world difference, in my opinion.....

Even if you don’t feel anything in a single run there’s a significant weight difference. By chopping weight and not sacrificing performance this can add up to a significant performance difference.

I bought some carbon bars a couple years ago because the marketing said they were tuned to be more compliant up and down to aid vibration effects, but more stiff back and forth to aid steering precision. Sounded great but not totally sure I could really tell. HOWEVER, they are notably lighter! And it is high up lightness!! Mass can be good lowdown e.g. downhillers adding lead to their BB. But they don't add it to their handlebars do they...??

I think the shape of the handlebars is more important than material. Getting the good rise and sweep angles that fit you on your bike makes bigger changes than just swapping bars material.

Sticking with my Spank Vibrocore

Yes more Blake on the Tech channel. He brings such good vibes wherever he goes. Loved him on the GCN channel today too. Way to represent the MTB world to roadies Blake!

This was one of your best videos in a while, GMBN. It was the perfect mix of fun and entertainment with useful, practical, actionable information. Well done! Two of my favorite presenters.

Blake’s a real-life princess & the pea!

Yes, we want more Blake in GMBN Tech 😎

Yes, More Blake on the tech!!!

These two are just great, always smiling!!

Coming from a motorcycle world, there's been all sorts of technology developed in handlebars to get rid of engine vibration and suspension movements that lead to fatigue and arm pump from a motocross and enduro standpoint. If rough trails are your thing, I can imagine the same effects would eventually set in on bicycle bars, unless some damping is used.

Very good test and review actually, keep em coming!