Wind Tunnel Optimised Alloy Clip-On Aero Bars for Faster Riding
The Bontrager Race Lite Aero Clip-On Bar is a set of alloy clip-on aerobars designed to reduce your frontal area and lower drag for time trial and triathlon riding, or for riders who want to add an aero position to their existing road bike without replacing the entire cockpit. The Race Lite uses the same unique clamping mechanism as the higher-tier Race X Lite Carbon in an aluminium construction - delivering the engineering and clamping precision of the premium design at a more accessible price point.
The extruded alloy extensions are optimised in the S-bend shape through wind tunnel testing, positioning the arms and hands in a configuration that minimises frontal presentation to the wind during a sustained aero effort. Wind tunnel optimisation ensures the shape is based on measured airflow performance rather than estimated aerodynamic benefit, reflecting genuine engineering investment in the bar's speed credentials.
Aerodynamic internal cable routing channels cables through the extensions internally rather than externally, removing exposed cable runs from the bar's aerodynamic profile. External cables create drag and disturb airflow around the cockpit - internal routing eliminates this and contributes to the cleaner visual appearance that characterises a well-built aero cockpit.
- A set of alloy clip-on aero bars that help position you for a faster ride.
- Extruded alloy extensions and forged alloy clamp
- Fits 31.8mm or 26.0mm (with included shim) clamp diameter
- Aerodynamic internal cable routing
- 65mm arm pad height leaves room for normal hand placement when used on road bars
- S-bend aero shape optimized in the wind tunnel
- Compatible with standard 22.2mm aluminum and carbon extensions
S-Bend Extensions, 65mm Arm Pad Height, and Clamp Compatibility
The S-bend extension shape positions the rider's forearms and hands in a forward-low posture suited to sustained aero efforts. The S-bend geometry - where the extension curves down and then forward rather than pointing straight ahead - places the hands in a position that keeps the upper body lower and the frontal area reduced compared to a straight bar extension.
The 65mm arm pad height is a practical specification for riders fitting these clip-ons to standard road drop bars. At 65mm, the arm pads sit at a height that allows normal road bar hand placement on the drops and hoods to remain accessible when the clip-ons are fitted - the pads are not so high that they interfere with standard hand positions during sections of riding that do not require the aero position. This matters for road cyclists who want to switch between road and aero positions during a ride rather than committing entirely to the aero setup.
The clamp fits 31.8mm handlebar clamp diameter as standard, with an included shim reducing the clamp to 26.0mm for handlebars of that diameter. This dual compatibility covers both standard modern road bar clamp sizes without requiring a separate adapter purchase. The extensions are compatible with standard 22.2mm aluminium and carbon extensions for riders who want to replace or upgrade the included extensions.
FAQs
What handlebar clamp diameter does the Race Lite Aero Clip-On fit?
The clip-on fits 31.8mm handlebar diameter as standard. An included shim allows fitting to 26.0mm bars, covering both common road handlebar clamp sizes.
What extension shape does the Race Lite use?
The Race Lite uses an S-bend extension shape optimised in the wind tunnel to minimise frontal presentation to the wind during sustained aero efforts.
Does the Race Lite have internal cable routing?
Yes. Cable routing is internal through the extensions, removing exposed cables from the aerodynamic profile and contributing to a cleaner cockpit.
What is the arm pad height on the Race Lite Aero bars?
The arm pad height is 65mm, which is designed to allow normal road bar hand placement on drops and hoods to remain accessible when the clip-ons are fitted.
Are the extensions compatible with aftermarket replacements?
Yes. The bars are compatible with standard 22.2mm aluminium and carbon extensions for riders who want to replace or upgrade the included extensions.
What material are the Race Lite Aero Bars made from?
The extensions are extruded alloy and the clamp is forged alloy - an aluminium construction that shares the same clamping mechanism design as the higher-tier Race X Lite Carbon model.
What type of riding are the Race Lite Aero Bars designed for?
The bars are designed for time trial and triathlon riding, and for road cyclists who want to add an aero position to their existing drop bar road bike for faster bike splits.