Hope Carbon Handlebar Review: 20R vs 35R, Clamp Size, Rise, and Cut-Down Fit

Hope Carbon Handlebar Lineup: 20R and 35R Overview

Hopetech reported that their carbon handlebars originate from extensive testing and feedback via riders to enhance trail performance. Both are 800mm-wide carbon bars aimed at trail and all-mountain riding, but the clamp options, sweep, weight, and front-end height are not the same. Hope’s 20R Carbon Handlebar page lists an 800mm width, 20mm rise, 5 degree upsweep, 7 degree backsweep, and 225g weight. The 35R Carbon Handlebar page lists an 800mm width, 35mm rise, 5 degree upsweep, 8 degree backsweep, and 245g weight.

Sweep Angles, Clamp Options, and Front-End Fit

The 20R bar is the more flexible fit because Hope offers it in both 31.8mm and 35mm clamp diameters. The 20R uses 5 degrees of upsweep and 7 degrees of backsweep. The 35R uses the same 5 degrees of upsweep but increases backsweep to 8 degrees. The 20R is the more versatile bar because it comes in 31.8mm and 35mm clamp sizes and keeps the front end lower.

Carbon Layup and Structural Engineering

Hopetech explains that an optimised laminate has been designed to increase strength in high stress areas and enables them to remove material from where it is not required to reduce weight. Hope says the 20R uses larger diameters around the bends and an optimized laminate to add strength in high-stress areas while removing material where it is not needed. Hope describes the 35R with optimized laminate design, varying wall sections, and a recyclable manufacturing technique.

Installation, Cut Marks, and Cockpit Setup

Hope mentions cut marks on the 35R page, and the visual markings are one of the more useful practical details on these bars. The 35R page mentions cut marks for custom length adjustment. Carbon bars need clean clamp surfaces, correct torque, and careful inspection after crashes.