New handlebars from Bike Ahead: The Unit ICR - the manta ray for the MTB cockpit

The Unit ICR is the further development of the existing handlebar/stem unit from Bike Ahead Composites. ICR - Internal Cable Routing - means that the cables run inside the handlebars and lead directly into the frame via the stem. Despite the cable routing and enduro approval (including e-bikes) up to the ASTM4 standard, the weight is said to be 10 per cent lower compared to classic The Unit handlebars. In the version with a 44 mm stem, Bike Ahead states that the handlebar weighs 199 grams; the longest version with 77 millimetres comes in at 210 grams. This is made possible by an optimised carbon fibre layup, which ensures good damping combined with maximum torsional stiffness.

Bike Ahead Composites from Würzburg aims to offer the ultimate cockpit solution with its new The Unit ICR handlebars. Three years ago, Bike Ahead Composites took functionality, lightweight construction and design to a new level with its predecessor "The Unit". Inspired by the shape of a manta ray, the cockpit had a certain elegance. In the shortest stem length of 44 millimetres, the handlebar-stem unit weighed just 215 grams. Nevertheless, The Unit proved its worth in racing, for example as a World Cup rider Anne Terpstra (Team Ghost Factory Racing) won the Cape Epic in 2024 and won silver at the Cross-Country World Championships.

Bike Ahead Composites has now brought the next evolutionary stage to series production: The Unit ICR. ICR stands for Internal Cable Routing, whereby all cables are protected and neatly routed inside the cockpit. The cable inlets are located on the underside of the handlebar/stem unit, each 80 millimetres from the centre. Each slot offers space for two cables - so classic configurations are also possible, for example with mechanical shifting and dropper post with cable pull.

The design also makes it possible to route the cables from the handlebars via the stem directly into the head tube without external ducts or covers. In order to optimise the connection between the stem and head tube, special top covers and spacers have been developed with corresponding cable passages. In contrast to the classic The Unit version, the stem clamp is located at the rear, creating space for the cables at the front.

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The Bike Ahead Composites handlebar The Unit ICR in the Overview

• IRC (Internal Cable Routing): internally routed cables. Two cables per side possible
• Visually integrated top cover and spacer with cable feed-through
• Compatible with IS 52 mm ACROS bearings
• Weight from 199 grams at 800 mm length (manufacturer's specification)
• Clamping area with patented "No Slip Application" surface (230 mm wide when not shortened)
• Approved for enduro (including e-bikes) up to ASTM4 standard
• Weight limit: 130 kilos (driver and luggage)
• Finish: matt unidirectional carbon fibre
• Stem clamp with titanium screws
• Made in Germany
• Price (RRP): 639 euros

Available versions

The Unit ICR handlebars from Bike Ahead Composites are available in four stem lengths: 44 mm, 55 mm, 66 mm and 77 mm. The stem angles are adapted to the lengths and vary between 0° and -10°. All versions are available with a width of 800 millimetres. The handlebar ends can be shortened and have length scales on both sides. The handlebars can also be ordered shortened ex works on request.

Accessories: A 9.5 gram GPS holder with a patented clamping mechanism is available as an option. This was developed in co-operation with Carbonworx, the German specialist for carbon mounts. Three versions are available (short, long and angle-adjustable).