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Deda RHM 02 bar

7
£27.99

VERDICT:

7
10
Good quality, good value compact bars with a classy look
Weight: 
330g
Contact: 
www.chickencyclekit.co.uk

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Deda's RHM 02s are their entry level alloy handlebar. They're an oversize clamp (although 31.7 rather than 31.8mm) available in either 42, 44, or 46cm (44cm tested) with a gloss black or white finish. The RHM in the name is a new shape abbreviation coined by Deda for 'rapid hand movement'. Calling it a compact would have be a whole lot easier but perhaps they are trying to avoid the snobbery it carries from cycling purists. Being of a new generation I carry no such shape prejudice and have been keen to get a set of compacts on my bike for a while.

The RHM shape of the Deda's suit me well. As a lanky rider with a relatively large saddle to handle bar drop, the smooth and tightly rounded drops are still comfortably accessible. Up top, the bar has a slightly aero cross-section, creating a pleasant, chunky grip when not on the hoods; standard cable groves front and rear keep cables tidy. Used in both training and in anger during a sprint finish at the Bath City Crits, the alloy bars provide stiffness beyond lesser carbon bars. The gloss finish is something normally found on more expensive bars, adding a touch of class so you sit quietly smug in the knowledge of the pennies saved from the £28 selling price. They weigh in at 330g on our scales, certainly not record breaking but competitive at the price point.

Verdict

We can't see a whole lot wrong with the RHM 02s. If your looking for a compact alloy bar the Deda's are a great choice. The slightly winged tops provide a comfortable grip, plus, with their gloss finish they look a whole lot more premium than their price.

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road.cc test report

Make and model: Deda RHM 02 bar

Size tested: 46cm

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

31.7mm clamp, 42-44-46 width, 128mm drop, 75mm reach, slightly aero cross-section

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
9/10
Rate the product for performance:
 
6/10
Rate the product for durability:
 
8/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
5/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
8/10
Rate the product for value:
 
9/10

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes, I found the shape suiting to my requirements

Would you consider buying the product? Yes

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes

Overall rating: 7/10

About the tester

Age: 22  Height: 184cm  Weight: 68kg

I usually ride: Orbea Alma G10  My best bike is: Orba Alma G10

I've been riding for: Under 5 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Semi pro

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo cross, club rides, mtb,

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