USE Escape GR 24 Max Carbon Bars

The USE Escape GR 24 Max Carbon Bars will suit a broad range of riders. It combines a natural, road-like position at the brake hoods with a flared, stable spread in the drops that’s great for control. This Max version has extra carbon reinforcement so you can fit aero extensions too – the lighter SL version lacks that – though you’re limited to three widths whichever version you pick.

USE Escape GR 24 Max Carbon Bars – Technical Details

USE produces handlebars across road, gravel and mountain disciplines in both aluminium and carbon, but the gravel-focused Escape GR range is currently carbon-only. There are two main versions: the GR 12 and GR 24, with the number referring to the degree of drop flare. All share a key design feature: the flare doesn’t begin until after the hoods. It’s a rare if not unique approach, and it means the hoods and levers sit in a more conventional road position while you still get a wide, more stable stance in the drops.

Both the GR 12 and GR 24 are available in MAX or SL versions. The MAX adds extra carbon reinforcement to the flat tops, allowing the use of aero extensions or other clamp-mounted accessories, at a weight penalty of around 40g.

Widths for all versions range from 380mm to 440mm, measured centre-to-centre at the hoods. We tested the GR 24 MAX in 420mm, which weighed 245g on my scales. That’s impressively light.

Internal cable routing is standard, with multiple entry and exit ports. There’s compatibility for fully internal routing via the stem, alongside more conventional ports near the hoods or beneath the flat tops for semi-internal setups.

Reach and drop are consistent across the range at 80mm and 132mm respectively. The finish is understated, with a matt UD carbon look and textured clamp areas to reduce slippage.

USE Escape GR 24 Max Carbon Bars – Performance

With such a variety of ports to choose from, internal routing is relatively straightforward, and the generously-sized holes make life easier than many rival bars do. Neverthless, for much of the test I the routed everything externally (as you can see in the pics), allowing future handlebar testing to be carried out without the need for new cables.

Out on the road and trail, the bar shape stands out quickly. Because the flare starts after the hoods, the lever position remains neutral and upright – bars that sweep out earlier tilt the brake lever outwards too. Some riders like that, but it can feel awkward.

Two aspects of the GR 24 are particularly noticeable: the pronounced drop and the subtle forward sweep of the flat tops. The latter is slight, but it may take a little getting used to if you’re coming from bars with backsweep, which are more common.

At 132mm, the drop is deeper than many gravel bars. For comparison, the Zipp SL-70 XPLR sits at 115mm, while the Deda Superzero Gravel carbon is 110mm. That extra depth creates a clearer separation between positions, giving a relaxed stance on the tops and a properly aggressive position in the drops when descending.

They’re impressively comfortable. There’s no noticeable flex under load when sprinting or climbing, yet they still take the edge off trail chatter. That balance between stiffness and compliance is one of their standout qualities.

If you’re fitting extensions the wide, straight top section offers plenty of scope for adjustment, and clear markings make alignment easy. USE offers a broad range of extensions in both carbon and alloy, should you want to really match up.

USE Escape GR 24 Max Carbon Bars – Verdict

The shaping here feels genuinely considered rather than just different for the sake of it. Very few handlebars delay the flare until after the hoods, and while 3T offers something similar, it’s with a more exaggerated profile.

Riders wanting a milder setup can look to the GR 12, which reduces the flare angle while retaining identical reach and drop. Meanwhile, the SL versions will appeal to those chasing lower weight and who have no requirement to add extensions.

At £245, the Escape GR 24 sits firmly in the premium bracket without being the most expensive option. The 3T Superghiaia and Aeroghiaia come in at £382, but lack clip-on compatibility. Another alternative is the Deda Elementi Gera DCR Gravel at £275, which has a striking design but proves less comfortable and more fiddly to route.

The USE Escape GR 24 stands out in a crowded field. The delayed flare design is genuinely effective, cable routing is excellent, and the option to run clip-ons adds versatility. Most importantly, it delivers excellent comfort and control across mixed terrain, making it a strong choice for riders after a capable – and slightly different – gravel bar.