Aerodynamics are no longer just for road racers – even in gravel riding, going aero is gaining traction. PRO’s Discover Aero components are a clear nod to this trend, with a handlebar designed specifically for gravel speed. But, while streamlined performance might be the headline feature, what stands out most for me is the comfort and improved ergonomics, making it far more than just an aero handlebar.
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PRO Discover Aero Carbon handlebar – Technical details
The Discover collection is PRO’s dedicated gravel line, featuring two stems, a handlebar bag, and an aero-optimised carbon handlebar.
PRO describes the handlebar as race-focused, but it’s equally at home on adventure rides – likely a deliberate move to appeal to a wide range of riders. It’s available in three widths – 40cm, 42cm and 44cm (measured centre-to-centre at the hoods) – and features a compact 100mm drop and 72mm reach. There’s a 12-degree flare and 5-degree backsweep.
Cable routing is impressively flexible, with options for standard internal routing, full headset integration, or external routing via recessed channels in the carbon, so no matter how your frame handles cabling, there’s a neat solution here.
The 40cm version tested weighed 276g, slightly more than PRO’s claimed 265g. While that’s not particularly light for a carbon handlebar, the shaping involved goes some way to explain it. By comparison, minimalist options like the Easton EC90 ALX and Mt Zoom weigh closer to 200g but they’re far simpler in form.
PRO Discover Aero Carbon handlebar – Performance
Installing the bar was straightforward, and the flexible routing options made it easy to achieve a clean external setup. When unwrapped, the aggressive shaping is obvious, and it makes hood placement slightly trickier. However, once wrapped, the complex shapes fade visually and come alive under the hands.
Despite opting for the narrowest 40cm version, there was still space to fit an out-front computer mount, with additional room for a light or camera if required. The bar is also compatible with PRO’s Compact Carbon Clip-On aero extensions – a tidy system that includes an integrated computer mount.
Once wrapped, the bar’s shape shines. The tops sweep down and outwards before rising gently into the hoods, creating a different feel from a traditional round bar. The transition to the hoods is smooth and ergonomic, while the compact drops offer a familiar and practical curve.
On the bike, the tops feel broad and very comfortable. The shaping continues into the hoods, effectively offering another useful hand position. The drops provide a deep and secure grip for braking, but also allow for a secondary position further round, ideal when descending or cruising without the need for braking. It’s a remarkably ergonomic design for such a compact bar, with a surprising number of viable hand positions.
Where the bar really impressed was in vibration damping. It may not be the headline feature, but it makes a real difference over long or rough rides. It holds its own against bars specifically built for comfort, like the Lauf Smoothie and Spank Vibrocore, both of which put damping front and centre in their design.
While PRO has leaned into the aerodynamic and racing narrative, it’s refreshing to see no exaggerated claims about watts saved or seconds gained. However, it is surprising that smaller widths aren’t available – narrower bars (sub-40cm) are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among racers looking to reduce their frontal area and increase potential speed.
PRO Discover Aero Carbon handlebar – Verdict
There aren’t many aero handlebars specifically targeted at gravel riders, which is perhaps unsurprising, and some may question whether there’s genuine demand. However, there are a few competitors, such as the Enve SES AR and Deda Superzero Gravel, which offer similar concepts. The Deda is slightly cheaper at £325, while the ENVE is significantly pricier at £440.
Although aerodynamic efficiency is the driving force behind the Discover Aero Carbon, its most impressive traits are comfort and versatility. The shaping not only creates excellent ergonomics and multiple hand positions, but also delivers superb vibration damping, making it suitable for everything from fast-paced gravel races to long, steady exploration.
The bold shaping may look a bit extreme when unwrapped, but once the tape is applied, it simply feels right. Whether you’re chasing speed or comfort, this bar offers a compelling combination of both, making it well-suited for a wide range of gravel riding, not just racing.
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Product purpose:
The quest for exploration and adventure does not have to come at the cost of comfort, control or performance. By combining cutting edge materials and modern cockpit integration design PRO have developed the race- and adventure-ready PRO Discover Aero Carbon Handlebar. Optimized for gravel racing, but suitable for explorers and adventurers who prioritize speed and efficiency, it blends aerodynamic tops with flared compact drops for comfort and control. Aerodynamic gains are further enhanced through the aggressive position the PRO Discover Aero Carbon Handlebar encourages and the fact that the compact drops, 12 degree flare, and downslope for neutral hand support all facilitate comfort while riding in aerodynamic positions. Fatigue is delayed by the vibration dampening properties of the handlebars’ carbon construction, which also contributes to its general lightweight nature. Modern system integration is ensured through internal electronic shift cable and brake hose routing. The PRO Discover Aero Carbon Handlebar is built to facilitate exploration, adventure, and full gas gravel racing.
Build extra:
• UD T700 carbon with Dyneema®
• Flare: 12 degrees
• Forward Sweep: 4 degrees
• Drop: Compact 100mm
• Reach: 72mm
• Clamping diameter: 31.8mm
• Weight: from 265g
• Widths: 40, 42 and 44cm
• Compatible with PRO Compact Carbon Clip-On aero extension
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