The Renthal Fatbar 35 is an aluminium handlebar with downhill intentions. With a massive range of rise options for the 35mm clamp, it’s a sturdy yet lightweight bar that should have all bases covered. The steering input has a direct feel and it remains composed under heavy loads however the compromise is increased vibrational fatigue from high frequency trail chatter.
Renthal Fatbar 35 – Technical Details
If you follow the World Cup Downhill you’ll no doubt have seen Renthal bars on several rider’s bike including the likes of Pivot Factory racing. The Fatbar is a staple of downhill racing and has received some subtle offering updates to bring it right up to date.
Constructed from 7000 series aluminium, Renthal have carefully selected the grade and heat treatment processes to maximise strength and durability. To further increase durability, the bars undergo a shot peening treatment which drastically improves fatigue life.
The Fatbar comes in carefully considered race derived geometry. An 800mm width, which is today’s standard, along with a 7 degree back sweep and 5 degree upsweep. A slightly straighter bar than the more commonly seen 8 degree back sweep which should bring the rider’s weight a little further forward and turn the elbows out a little more.
Aside from the branding, Renthal have included alignment markings around the stem clamp area to help with getting the roll and centralisation of the bar just so. The ends feature more markings, to help with cutting, in 5mm increments (removing 10mm off the overall length).
The Fatbar comes in a 31.8mm diameter clamp with rise options from 10mm up to 40mm in 10mm increments. The Fatbar 35 (on test) comes in a 35mm diameter clamp with rise options from 10mm up to 70mm in 10mm increments.
Available in a black or alugold anodised colourway with both options seeing updated, more subtle black graphics.
Renthal Fatbar 35 – Performance
Fitting was a simple affair thanks to the markings around the clamp area. I particularly like the central mark on the bar which, if you have a stem with a central mark, makes centralising the bar super easy. I had the Fatbar 35 on test in a 40mm rise and trimmed it down to my preferred width of 780mm.
Out on the trails, the bars have a direct feel to them. The bar is noticeably stiffer than some other aluminium options I’ve tried which gives great feedback on technical terrain allowing me to feel what the front wheel is doing. When the trails getting choppy, this feedback does propagate more vibration into the hands which can cause fatigue, particularly on small, repeated trail chatter such as braking bumps.
The stiffer bar does however give more direct steering inputs and I’ve found it to be more confidence inspiring when hitting large compressions where the bars don’t deflect so much.
I’m a fan of the new subtle graphics but my preference is always towards the subtle end of the spectrum. The black bar with black graphics is a very stealthy affair but those who want something a bit louder, the alugold classic Renthal colour is always an option.
The 40mm rise bars at 800mm width tipped the scales at 314g, these are right on the money with the recently tested OneUp Aluminium bar and Race Face Turbine bar sharing nearly identical weights.
Renthal Fatbar 35 – Verdict
Retailing at £85, these are on the more expensive side for an aluminium handlebar, however, the performance and quality on offer do go towards justifying the price.
The aforementioned OneUp Aluminium bar comes in at £87 and is another solid option. It’s a little more compliant than the Fatbar but has fewer high-rise options and only comes in black.
The Race Face Turbine bar also is worth considering at £80. Another well-tuned handlebar which comes in a range of colours, but all has fewer high-rise options.
The Renthal Fatbar 35 is a sturdy aluminium handlebar which is lightweight and tough. The bar has a stiff, direct feel which makes steering inputs feel precise whilst handling heavy compressions with ease. There is a compromise to this stiffness which does create some extra vibration transmission to the hands. Available in a wide range of rise options and both clamp sizes, it should suit most needs and is well worth considering if you’re looking for a hard-hitting handlebar.
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