While roaming the exhibitor stalls at the Interbike Outdoor Demo, we came across Control Tech’s new Formidable aluminum handle bars (MSRP $135.00). While aluminum bars wouldn’t normally get us excited, these were different because they’re an exact replica of Control Tech’s $350.00 ergonomic Carbon Comp Road with flat bar tops, and contoured riding surfaces. To recreate the contoured design of the Carbon Comp in aluminum, Control Tech uses a process called hydro-forming which shapes the metal using high pressure fluid and a casting mold. The result is a set of bars which are only 19% heavier then the Carbon Comps (293g vs. 246g), but cost about a third the price. So, if you can stomach an extra 0.10lbs (0.05kg) you’ll have a set of contoured riding bars, and still have an extra $215.00 to put toward something else like that new Power Tap you’ve been eyeing. Oh, and by the way, the Formidable bars won the 2006 IF Eurobike Design Award.

Product Link: Formidable