Handlebar width question regarding the FSA Omega Compact
 

Planning to change from my current bar [42cm], to the FSA Omega Compact. From what I have read the Omegas hoods will be about 1-1.5 cm closer if I get the 42 cm.

So would you guys suggest I go a size bigger, to get the same width of the hoods? I know its difficult to advise some one on something like this, but just wanted an idea of what guys who have switched have done.

No way can I get to try the bar.

Thanks.

I would go with wider, 44cm bars. It simply comes down to personal preference, but wider drops just seem to feel more comfortable, at least for me.

It is personal preference. I like bars that allow my arms to reach out at pretty close to 90 degrees. I am not comfortable with bars that feel wide or narrow.

I think what you are concerned about is shortening your stretch to the hoods. You may find a longer stem is needed with those compacts.

I also had this problem last time I bought a new bar and ended up replacing it to the next wider size, I'd select the bar size at the hoods not the bar ends.

If you were properly fit on that bike to begin with, 1-1.5cm closer is a HUGE chain. If you're serious rec rides, road racing or doing tri's, I would highly suggest you get a professional fit if you haven't already. Fit isn't something you want to randomly screw around with on parts that cost you money.

Thanks guys. I was only thinking of width. Never gave thought to the reduced reach. Have to take that into consideration too.

I bought the same width Omega Compact and it felt perfect, but that is probably going to be different for every person. Being in the drops with this bar is very comfortable!

I bought 40cm wing pro compact bars (same as omega except for profile of the tops). They are definitely narrower than my standard bend 40cm bars. I kinda like the narrower feel most of the time, but it's noticeable. If you feel like your current width is perfect, go with 44cm in the omegas.

Very carefully re measured, and the distance between hoods [center to center], as well as the center to center of the drop bends [front] is 42.5cm. I guess I'll order the 44cm FSA.

The only hesitation is a 'mental' thing. 44 is their largest bar, and I'm a pretty small built 5'8" guy, so I cannot mentally accept getting the biggest bar available.

The Omega is measured c-c at the ends. This measurement will be wider due to the flare.

My 44cm Omega measures (c-c) 44cm at the ends and 42cm at the hoods.

Thanks desertdork, that clinches it. will order the 44cm.