Gravel ergonomics from SQlab: Handlebars, saddle and cycling shorts, all designed as a single, cohesive unit

Our verdict on the SQlab Gravel Ergonomics Set

With its handlebars, handlebar tape, saddle and cycling shorts, SQlab addresses the four key contact points between the rider and the gravel bike. The concept is consistently designed with long tours and bikepacking stages in mind. Only a practical test will reveal whether the ergonomic claims hold up in everyday use. What is striking, however, is the systematic approach, rather than viewing individual components in isolation. This is not only a novel approach, but also a logical and promising one.

Gravel bikes are designed for long days on varied terrain. However, the longer the ride, the more noticeable vibrations, pressure on the hands and sit bones, and an unsuitable riding position become. Ergonomics specialist SQlab aims to reduce these stresses with a tailored package comprising four components: handlebars (including handlebar tape), a saddle and cycling shorts.

The handlebars are designed to help you relax your posture

The SQlab 314 Gravel Handlebars* features a compact geometry with a 25-millimetre rise (upward bend). This raises the front significantly, thereby allowing for a slightly more upright riding position. This is designed to relieve strain on the back, shoulders and neck, particularly on long journeys.

With a 14-degree flare (the handlebar ends flaring outwards), the handlebars are also designed to provide good control on technical terrain. Importantly, according to SQlab, the flare only begins below the brake levers, meaning their position remains unchanged. A front sweep (forward tilt of the handlebars) of ten degrees and ergonomically shaped grip areas are designed to match the natural position of the hands and fingers.

Facts about the SQlab 314 Gravel Handlebars

• Material: Aluminium 6066
• Widths: 400, 420, 440 and 460 mm
• Rise: 25 mm
• Flare: 14°
• Weight: 320 to 340 g
• Special feature: Di2-compatible
• Price: 129.99 euros >> available here*

Greater cushioning between the hand and the ground

When it comes to handlebar tape, SQlab takes a two-stage approach: a diamond-patterned surface is designed to improve grip, whilst a damping layer on the underside reduces micro-vibrations. Particularly on rough gravel, it is often the constant, subtle vibrations that cause hands and forearms to tire.

The 714 Gravel handlebar tape Can be wrapped to different thicknesses using three rows of knobs. This allows the grip diameter to be adjusted to suit hand size and personal riding preference. At 2,500 millimetres in length, it is also designed for wider gravel handlebars.

The facts about the SQlab 714 Gravel handlebar tape

• Material: EVA with a micro-vibration-damping underside
• Length: 250 cm
• Weight: around 215 g
• Adjustment: Winding thickness can be varied across three rows of nubs
• Colours: Black, Sand and Green
• Price: 49.99 euros >> available here

Saddle with a movable shell to prevent pressure peaks

The 614 Ergowave Active 2.1 S’Qantara is designed for long distances and varying terrain. Its shape is intended to distribute pressure more evenly and relieve pressure on the sensitive perineal area. At the same time, the shape is designed to stabilise the riding position, which is particularly important when pedalling for long periods on uneven terrain.

At the heart of the design is what is known as ‘Active Technology’: the saddle shell can move slightly sideways with the pelvis. This is intended to reduce pressure peaks. The S’Qantara cover is designed to combine good support with a breathable seating environment.

Facts about the SQlab 614 Ergowave Active 2.1 S’Qantara

• Material: S-Tube, glass-fibre-reinforced polyamide composite, lightweight foam, S‘Qantara cover
• Widths: 12 to 16 cm
• Weight: 229 to 254 g
• Technology: Lateral-movement Active saddle shell
• Price: 159.99 euros

The cycling shorts complement the design right on the body

Whilst the handlebars, chain and saddle alter the contact points on the bike, the SQ-Shorts One 14 focuses on the body. At the heart of the design is the six-millimetre-thick SQ-Pad 14 2.0. This multi-layer pad features an integrated TPE layer and, according to the manufacturer, is designed to reduce shear forces, pressure and vibrations.

Wide straps, a mesh back and non-slip leg cuffs are designed to keep the shorts in place. Two leg pockets provide extra storage space for a smartphone, snacks or tools. The fabric is made from 65 per cent recycled nylon and 35 per cent elastane. SQlab has the shorts manufactured in the EU and offers a repair service.

Facts about the SQ-Shorts ONE14

• Material: 65 per cent recycled nylon, 35 per cent elastane
• Upholstery: SQ-Pad 14 2.0, 6 mm
• Sizes: XS to XXL
• Facilities: Wide straps, mesh back, non-slip leg cuffs, two leg pockets
• Manufacturing: EU-manufactured products with a repair service
• Price: 219.99 euros

Four points of contact, a shared commitment

SQlab does not view its new products as individual items, but as an ergonomic system designed to optimise the key contact points. The idea behind this is that the hands, saddle and clothing all work together during long gravel rides. A more comfortable handlebar position loses its effectiveness if the grips, saddle or padding are not also suited to the rider.

The package is therefore aimed primarily at gravel cyclists who regularly spend several hours or several days on the bike. However, the individual fit remains crucial. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, particularly when it comes to handlebar width, saddle width and saddle padding. Anyone considering this investment should therefore try out the components before buying, if possible.