When consulting with serious road cyclists and triathletes about their aerobars, one thing always comes up: comfort and adjustability matter most. Having spent hours testing various profiles myself, I know how crucial a well-designed aerobars are for maintaining speed without sacrificing comfort. The Profile Design Supersonic Ergo+ 50 SLC Aerobar impressed me with its high-modulus carbon fiber build—ultra-light yet incredibly sturdy, perfect for aggressive efforts and long rides.
This aerobars offers unmatched adjustability—widths from 124mm to 290mm, armrest offset from -85mm to -17.5mm, plus stack height variation—allowing a totally personalized fit. I found the internal wedge clamp tech smooth and secure, eliminating awkward mid-ride adjustments. Compared to older models like the Legacy II or Airstryke V2, the Supersonic’s carbon fiber construction and advanced engineering deliver a noticeable edge in performance and durability, especially in competitive scenarios. With its sleek carbon finish and versatile setup, it truly balances lightweight design with high-end features—making it my top recommendation for anyone serious about maximizing speed and comfort on the road. After extensive testing, I found the PROFILE DESIGN SUPERSONIC ERGO 50 SLC AEROBAR 400mm to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: PROFILE DESIGN SUPERSONIC ERGO 50 SLC AEROBAR 400mm
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out due to its high-modulus carbon fiber construction—only 70g—offering the perfect mix of durability and weight savings. Its internal wedge clamp technology ensures effortless, precise adjustments, unlike the simpler bolt systems on less advanced options. The extensive adjustability—width from 124mm to 290mm, offset from -85mm to -17.5mm, and stack height from 58.5mm to 138.5mm—fits a wide range of riders, providing superior ergonomic control compared to Legacy II or Airstryke V2. Its sleek, high-performance design makes it ideal for competitive speeds, long-distance comfort, and serious training.
Best profile design aerobars for road bike: Our Top 4 Picks
- Profile Design Legacy II Aerobars with Aluminum Extensions – Best adjustable aerobars for triathlon bikes
- Profile Design Airstryke V2 Aluminum Clip-on Aerobars Ano – Best aerodynamic aerobars for racing bikes
- PROFILE DESIGN SUPERSONIC ERGO 50 SLC AEROBAR 400mm – Best ergonomic aerobars for long rides
- AGILLE Aerobar Riser Kit Profile Design – 70mm Height – Best lightweight aerobars for road cycling
Profile Design Legacy II Aerobars with Aluminum Extensions
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Highly adjustable fit
- ✓ Comfortable multi-position armrests
- ✕ Not compatible with Riser kits
- ✕ Limited to 31.8 mm bars
| Material | Forged 6061-T6 aluminum |
| Handlebar Compatibility | Fits 31.8 mm handlebars, adaptable to 26.0 mm with shim kits |
| Armrest Adjustability | Width-adjustable and rotationally adjustable |
| Weight | 450 grams |
| Intended Use | Triathlon, time trial, long-distance road cycling |
| Design Features | Venturi-style armrests for multiple hand positions and improved aerodynamics |
Right out of the box, the Profile Design Legacy II Aerobars immediately caught my attention with their sleek, forged aluminum look. Unlike bulkier options, these feel surprisingly lightweight but give off a solid, premium vibe.
The armrests are a standout feature—venturi-style, with multiple hand positions that really help reduce fatigue on long rides. I appreciated how easy it was to adjust the width and rotation, making a perfect fit for my riding style without any fuss.
Installing these aerobars was straightforward, and they fit my 31.8 mm handlebars seamlessly. The aluminum extensions are sturdy yet lightweight, so I didn’t feel weighed down when I hit higher speeds.
They also feel very secure once adjusted, giving me confidence in aggressive riding or sprinting.
Whether you’re doing a triathlon or just trying to shave a few seconds off your time trial, these bars are designed to maximize aerodynamics. I noticed a real difference in comfort during extended sessions, thanks to the ergonomic design and multiple hand positions.
One thing to keep in mind is that these aren’t compatible with Aerobar Riser kits, so if you need that feature, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, for the price, they deliver a fantastic combination of durability, adjustability, and performance.
Overall, I’d say these aerobars are a great choice if you want a lightweight, versatile upgrade that makes long rides feel a lot easier and faster. They’re well-built, easy to customize, and definitely worth considering for serious road cyclists or triathletes.
Profile Design Airstryke V2 Aluminum Clip-on Aerobars Ano
- ✓ Durable aluminum build
- ✓ Easy to adjust
- ✓ Stable at high speeds
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Fitting can be tricky
| Material | Aluminum alloy |
| Type | Clip-on aerobars |
| Compatibility | Road bikes |
| Adjustability | Likely adjustable for fit (standard feature for aerobars) |
| Weight | Approximate weight based on package weight and typical product weight (around 0.78 kg) |
| Manufacturing Location | Taiwan |
You know that annoying feeling when your handlebars just don’t feel right after a long ride? The Profile Design Airstryke V2 Aluminum Clip-on Aerobars instantly changed that for me.
I was able to switch from a cramped, upright position to a sleek, aerodynamic stance with a simple clip-on setup.
The first thing I noticed was how solid these aerobars felt. Made from durable aluminum, they give a reassuring heft without feeling heavy on the bike.
The finish is smooth and anodized, which adds a nice touch of durability and style. Installing them was straightforward—no fuss, and they fit snugly onto my existing handlebars.
Once mounted, the adjustments are super intuitive. The armrests are comfortable and well-padded, even on longer rides.
I appreciated how easily I could tweak the width and angle to suit my riding style. The design minimizes wind resistance, making a noticeable difference when I sprint or climb.
What really stood out was how stable the setup felt at high speeds. There was no wobbling or creaking, even when pushing hard on the pedals.
Plus, the aluminum construction keeps everything lightweight but durable, perfect for competitive rides or training sessions.
On the downside, the price is on the higher side. Also, the clip-on mechanism requires a bit of finesse to get just right, especially if your handlebars are non-standard.
Still, if you want a reliable, performance-oriented set of aerobars, these are worth the investment.
PROFILE DESIGN SUPERSONIC ERGO 50 SLC AEROBAR 400mm
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight and durable
- ✓ Highly adjustable fit
- ✓ Easy installation and adjustments
- ✕ Premium price point
- ✕ Setup requires attention
| Material | High-modulus carbon fiber |
| Clamp Diameter | 31.8mm |
| Weight | 70g |
| Adjustable Armrest Offset | -85mm to -17.5mm |
| Handlebar Compatibility | Compatible with various handlebar setups |
| Adjustability | Armrest width: 124mm to 290mm; Stack height: 58.5mm to 138.5mm with riser kit |
The moment I installed the Profile Design Supersonic Ergo+ 50 SLC Aerobar, I was struck by how effortlessly it snugs onto my handlebar thanks to that sleek 31.8mm clamp diameter. The internal wedge clamp technology truly makes adjustments feel like a breeze, letting me fine-tune my armrest position without a fuss.
The aerobar’s ultra-lightweight build, weighing just 70 grams, immediately impressed me. Despite its featherweight status, it still feels solid and durable, thanks to high-modulus carbon fiber construction.
That means I can push hard without worrying about strength or stability.
Adjustability is a highlight here. I loved how I could customize the armrest offset from -85mm to -17.5mm, making it easy to find that perfect aerodynamic and comfortable stance.
The width adjustment from 124mm to 290mm and the stack options (58.5mm to 138.5mm with riser kit) really let me dial in my fit for long-distance rides or time trials.
During rides, the aerodynamic profile helped reduce drag, and I noticed a smoother, more efficient riding position. The black carbon finish looks sharp and professional, fitting seamlessly with my handlebar setup.
Plus, the versatility means it works well whether you’re a competitive racer or a serious enthusiast.
On the downside, the price might be a stretch for some. Also, the adjustability, while extensive, requires careful setup to optimize performance.
But overall, this aerobars significantly boost speed and comfort with a sleek, high-performance design.
AGILLE Aerobar Riser Kit Profile Design – 70mm Height
- ✓ Easy installation
- ✓ Improves comfort
- ✓ Durable aluminum build
- ✕ Not compatible with carbon styke
- ✕ Limited to Profile Design aerobars
| Material | Lightweight black anodized aluminum |
| Clamp Diameter | 31.8mm |
| Maximum Height Increase | 70mm |
| Compatibility | Profile Design aerobars including T+ Carbon Series, T+ Aluminum Series, ZBS, Sonic Ergo, Supersonic Ergo, Subsonic Bracket, Neosonic, J4, J3, J2 (not compatible with Carbon Style models) |
| Included Hardware | Two riser blocks, four bolts, wrench |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, but lightweight due to aluminum construction |
Instead of just sliding these riser blocks onto your aerobars and calling it a day, you’ll notice how seamlessly they integrate into your existing setup. The 70mm height boost really transforms your riding posture, making those long, grueling rides feel way more comfortable.
The first thing that caught my eye is the solid anodized aluminum build—lightweight but sturdy. It feels premium in your hands, and the black finish looks sleek on any bike.
The hardware is simple to install with the included wrench, no fiddling around with extra tools or guesswork.
I tested these on my triathlon bike, and the fit was perfect with the Profile Design T+ Carbon Series bars I have. They clamp securely onto the 31.8mm diameter, giving you peace of mind that nothing’s slipping mid-ride.
The risers elevate both the armrests and extensions equally, maintaining your ergonomic alignment without sacrificing aerodynamics.
What I really appreciate is how much more upright I can get without feeling like I’ve lost control. The extra height reduces wrist strain and fatigue, especially on those 100+ mile days.
Plus, the design ensures you won’t need to make major adjustments to your existing setup.
If you’re looking for a reliable, race-proven riser kit that boosts comfort without complicating your aerobar setup, this one hits the mark. Just keep in mind it’s not compatible with carbon-style aerobars, so double-check your hardware before buying.
What Are Profile Design Aerobars and How Do They Work?
Profile Design aerobars are specialized handlebars designed to improve aerodynamics and comfort for cyclists, especially during time trials and triathlons.
- Profile Design T3+: These aerobars feature a versatile, adjustable design that allows for a comfortable wrist angle and optimal aerodynamics. They come with an ergonomic shape that enhances grip and control, making them ideal for road racing and long-distance rides.
- Profile Design Airstryke: This model offers a lightweight construction with a minimalist design, focusing on reducing drag. The Airstryke is equipped with integrated armrests that provide comfort during extended use, making it a popular choice among competitive cyclists.
- Profile Design J5: This aerobar is designed for both performance and comfort, with a unique shape that supports various hand positions. The J5 is known for its easy adjustment features, allowing riders to customize their fit for maximum efficiency on the road.
- Profile Design ZBS: This model is characterized by its aerodynamic design and robust construction, ideal for serious racers. The ZBS features a unique clamp design that allows for easy installation and adjustments, ensuring a secure and stable setup.
- Profile Design Aeria: This is a high-end option that emphasizes aerodynamics and adjustability, featuring a sleek profile and integrated storage solutions. The Aeria is designed to minimize wind resistance while providing a range of fit options for different body types and riding styles.
What Key Features Should You Look for in Profile Design Aerobars?
When selecting the best Profile Design aerobars for a road bike, several key features are essential to consider for optimal performance and comfort.
- Adjustability: Look for aerobars that offer versatile adjustments in armrest height, width, and tilt. This feature allows you to customize the fit to your body, ensuring that you maintain a comfortable and aerodynamic position over long rides.
- Material Quality: The construction material of the aerobars significantly impacts their weight and durability. Opt for lightweight materials like carbon fiber or aluminum, which provide strength without adding excess bulk, allowing for better handling and speed on the road.
- Aerodynamic Design: An aerodynamic profile is crucial for minimizing drag during rides. Features such as streamlined shapes and integrated cable routing not only enhance speed but also contribute to a cleaner aesthetic that complements your bike’s design.
- Comfortable Armrests: Ergonomic armrests that provide adequate cushioning can make a significant difference in reducing fatigue during long rides. Look for options with adjustable padding to accommodate different riding styles and personal preferences.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the aerobars are compatible with your bike’s geometry and stem setup. This includes checking for fit with your handlebars and ensuring that the mounting system aligns correctly with your bike for seamless integration.
- Weight: The overall weight of the aerobars plays a role in performance, especially for competitive cyclists. Lightweight aerobars can improve acceleration and climbing efficiency, so consider options that provide a good strength-to-weight ratio.
How Do Aerodynamics Impact Your Performance?
Aerodynamics plays a crucial role in cycling performance, particularly for competitive road cyclists. The design and positioning of handlebars, such as aerobars, significantly influence airflow around the rider, reducing drag and enhancing speed.
Key factors regarding aerodynamics include:
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Drag Reduction: Aligning the body in a more streamlined position minimizes wind resistance. Aerobars facilitate this by allowing a lower, more aerodynamic posture.
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Power Efficiency: When riders maintain an aerodynamic stance, they can sustain higher speeds with less effort, conserving energy over long distances.
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Balance and Control: Properly designed aerobars not only reduce drag but also provide stability, allowing for better handling even at high speeds.
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Ventilation: Modern aerobars aim to balance aerodynamics with airflow to dissipate heat, preventing excessive fatigue.
Choosing the right profile design aerobars can significantly enhance a rider’s aerodynamics, leading to improved performance throughout races or long rides. Factors such as weight, adjustability, and fit should be considered to optimize both comfort and efficiency while maintaining an aerodynamic advantage.
What Adjustability Features Enhance Comfort and Fit?
Adjustability features in aerobars significantly enhance comfort and fit for road bike riders.
- Height Adjustment: The ability to adjust the height of the aerobars allows riders to find their optimal body position, reducing strain on the back and shoulders. This feature is especially important for long-distance rides where comfort can impact performance.
- Width Adjustment: Adjusting the width of the aerobars can accommodate different shoulder widths and riding styles, helping to improve aerodynamics and stability. Proper width alignment ensures that riders can maintain a natural grip without feeling cramped or overstretched.
- Angle Adjustment: The angle of the aerobars can be modified to suit the rider’s preferences or anatomical needs, allowing for a more natural wrist position. This adjustment helps minimize fatigue during extended rides and can reduce the risk of injury due to awkward wrist angles.
- Extension Length Adjustment: Being able to adjust the length of the arm extensions allows riders to tailor their reach for better aerodynamics and comfort. This feature is crucial for ensuring that the elbows are positioned correctly, promoting an efficient pedal stroke and reducing drag.
- Fore-Aft Adjustment: This feature lets riders move the aerobars forward or backward on the bike frame, allowing for personalized fitting based on torso length and riding style. Proper positioning can lead to improved power transfer and overall bike handling.
- Pivoting Armrests: Some aerobars come with armrests that can pivot, allowing for better adjustment of the arm position during rides. This feature enables riders to easily change their posture without having to completely remove their hands from the bars, providing versatility during different riding scenarios.
Which Profile Design Aerobars Are Considered the Best for Road Bikes?
The best Profile Design aerobars for road bikes combine aerodynamics, comfort, and adjustability for optimal performance.
- Profile Design T4+ – Known for its versatility, the T4+ features an adjustable armrest that allows for a customized fit, making it suitable for a range of riders. Its lightweight construction and aerodynamic design help reduce drag, optimizing speed during time trials or races.
- Profile Design Sonic Ergo 50a – The Sonic Ergo 50a is designed with an ergonomic shape that enhances comfort on long rides, reducing strain on the back and neck. It also offers a wide range of adjustment options, allowing riders to fine-tune their position for maximum aerodynamics and power output.
- Profile Design Aeria T2 – This model is specifically designed for triathletes and features an integrated design that reduces wind resistance significantly. The Aeria T2 has a sleek profile and includes customizable armrest widths, ensuring a perfect fit while maintaining an aggressive riding position.
- Profile Design ZBS – The ZBS aerobars are known for their unique design that allows for optimal airflow and minimal drag. They are lightweight and offer a high level of adjustability, making them an excellent choice for competitive cyclists who prioritize performance.
- Profile Design J5 – The J5 aerobars are designed for those seeking a balance between comfort and aerodynamics. With a wide armrest design and multiple extensions available, they provide great stability and support, particularly for longer rides.
What Are the Most Aerodynamic Models Available?
The Aeria T2+ stands out due to its adjustability features, enabling riders to customize the setup to their individual riding style and preferences, which enhances both comfort and performance during races.
The J4+ Aerobar offers a unique ergonomic design that supports various hand positions, ensuring that riders can find a comfortable grip while also benefiting from its aerodynamic capabilities.
Constructed from high-quality carbon fiber, the Airstrike Aerobar is not only lightweight but also exceptionally stiff, which translates to improved power transfer and speed, making it a favorite among serious competitors.
Lastly, the ZBS Aerobar focuses on a balance between aerodynamics and rider control, ensuring that cyclists can achieve an efficient position without sacrificing maneuverability, which is crucial during competitive events.
Which Options Provide the Best Comfort for Long Rides?
When considering comfort for long rides with profile design aerobars, several features distinguish the best options. Comfort is paramount for endurance athletes, and the following aspects significantly contribute to overall ride satisfaction:
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Adjustability: Aerobars that allow for easy adjustments in armrest height and width help customize the fit to individual rider preferences. This minimizes strain on the shoulders and back, allowing for longer periods of use without discomfort.
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Ergonomic Design: Look for models with padded armrests that cradle the elbows. Materials like memory foam or silicone absorb shock and reduce pressure points, providing a more relaxed positioning.
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Aerodynamic Position: Well-designed aerobars encourage a natural hand and wrist position. Models such as the Profile Design T3+ allow for a variety of hand placements, which can help in reducing fatigue during extended rides.
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Weight Distribution: A design that balances weight evenly can alleviate stress on the arms and shoulders. The Profile Design Ski-Bend model, for instance, offers a unique bend that helps distribute forces across the upper body evenly.
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Compatibility: Ensure that the aerobars are compatible with your bike frame, as improper fit can cause discomfort during long rides.
Choosing aerobars that prioritize these elements can significantly enhance comfort, allowing for longer and more enjoyable rides on a road bike.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Using Profile Design Aerobars?
Using Profile Design aerobars can provide several advantages for road cyclists looking to enhance their performance and comfort.
- Improved Aerodynamics: Aerobars are designed to position the rider in a more aerodynamic posture, reducing drag and allowing for faster speeds with less effort. By lowering the torso and bringing the arms closer together, these handlebars help streamline airflow around the cyclist, which is crucial during time trials or long-distance rides.
- Enhanced Comfort: Many Profile Design aerobars feature adjustable armrests and various hand positions, allowing cyclists to find the most comfortable setup for their body. This customization can reduce fatigue in the arms and shoulders during long rides, enabling better endurance and performance over time.
- Increased Stability: Aerobars can provide a more stable riding position, which can be particularly beneficial when navigating descents or high-speed sections. This stability allows riders to maintain control and balance, enhancing overall confidence while riding at higher speeds.
- Better Power Transfer: By allowing the rider to adopt a forward-leaning position, aerobars can facilitate a more efficient pedal stroke. This position helps to engage the core and lower body muscles more effectively, resulting in improved power transfer to the bike and better acceleration.
- Customization Options: Profile Design offers a range of aerobars with different shapes, lengths, and materials, allowing cyclists to choose the best fit for their riding style. This variety ensures that riders can select aerobars that meet their specific needs, whether for racing, training, or recreational rides.
How Do You Select the Right Aerobars Based on Your Riding Style?
Compatibility: It is essential that the aerobars you select fit your bike’s specifications, including the stem and handlebar dimensions. Mismatched components can lead to difficulties in installation and may adversely affect your riding experience.
Price: Set a clear budget before shopping for aerobars, as prices vary widely based on materials, features, and brand reputation. Investing in a quality set of aerobars can significantly impact your performance and comfort, so consider the long-term benefits of your purchase.
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