I disagree. I use an FSA K-Force carbon handlebar with a Look HSC carbon stem. I also ride another bike with aluminum cockpit. Compared with an FSA Wing Pro handlebar with OS-99 aluminum stem it is night and day difference (using the same Specialized Roubaix handlebar tape). The Look HSC carbon stem damps alot of road feel and vibration compared to the aluminum FSA OS-99 stem ... It's worth the $400 asking price if you spend alot of time riding over rough surfaces.