Diablito

Hey guys I really like some Bontrager Carbon Aero bars I saw at a LBS but at $300 I wouldn't be able to afford them so for the hell of it I looked at eBay and say an identical pair for $60. Of course I was like wow so I ordered them. They look identical and weight the same. Anybody have any experience with chinese handlebars. I just don't want them to Crack on me from maybe some gravel grinding.
Full Carbon Fiber Road Mountain Bike Bicycle Drop Handlebar 400mm 420mm 440mm | eBay

Just tough for me to under why 1 American Company and 1 Chinese Company.
Both companies make identical item, both companies manufacturer the item in the same country (china) but one company chargers $300 and the other $50. I totally rather support an American Company but I don't like to get guilted into buying American and getting over charged on top of it.

indyfabz

Identical in what way? Looks alone?

Diablito

Identical meaning the flat top mounts. They aren't round, more flat so easier on the palms of my hands. They are 200grams also like the Bontrager bars

Diablito

Identical meaning the flat top mounts. They aren't round, more flat so easier on the palms of my hands. They are 200grams also like the Bontrager bars

bt

Identical meaning the flat top mounts. They aren't round, more flat so easier on the palms of my hands. They are 200grams also like the Bontrager bars

seymour1910

^^^^

Diablito

My dam phone is going whacky. Done sent the same reply twice

mkadam68

Just because they look the same, doesn't mean they're identical.
Just because they have the same features doesn't men they're identical.
Just because they weigh the same doesn't mean they're identical.

The American version also has:

• Innovative research
• Proprietary molds developed via that research
• Warranty built in
• Customer service
• Automatic, (probably) no questions-asked support if should something should go wrong.

All that adds up financially.

Now, that's not to say the Chinese version will break on you or won't last as long. It very well may. I have some bomb-proof Chinese carbon rim wheels that I adore. But I knew their limitations going in.

Diablito

I guess I can't go wrong for the price. Speaking of wheels I was looking at those also $470 for carbon disc road clinchers. That will probably be my next purchase for road wheels.

ussprinceton

I say get these Chinese carbon road bars and write a review

Diablito

They are already on the way. I will definitely write a review since I already have the Bontrager Aluminum Aero bars which weight 350 grams
Losing 150 grams for $50 isn't too shabby.

indyfabz

So looks/design of one part. That doesn't mean the items are "identical" as you claim. Two different cars can have identical looking wheels, for example, but that does not mean the wheels are the same in every other respect except outward appearance. Before you can claim two items are "identical" and ask who one costs $250 more than the other you need to know a lot about more about the two items.

indyfabz

Sent by the identical person but under two different user names. Which one of you was made in China?

Diablito

This too deep for me haha. I just wanted to know if anybody has these or has seen someone with them. Any feedback would have been fine. Thanks

indyfabz

Actually, you didn't ask that (or any) question. You did, however, state that you find it tough to understand why two allegedly identical products are priced miles apart without demonstrating that the products are, in fact, identical. Just wanted to prod you into thinking a little more in depth, but don't bother if it you might sprain something.

Diablito

Everyone knows why all this is happening but no one can fix it.

indyfabz

According to the OP, both products are made in China.

RR3

Aren't they all made in China?

I have a pair. 1 year. About 6,000 miles. They weigh 198.25 grams and are more comfortable than the alu ones.

Still alive.

Diablito

Thanks RR3, FINALLY someone with actually proof. Made me feel better on the purchase.

Stucky

No, it's too late.

Yes, but one is sold directly by a Chinese company, while the other is sold by a 'Murican company, which still has to pay all of the taxes; placate all the regulators; and assume all the other liabilities, just because they have an office here.

indyfabz

Are you suggesting that things like OSHA and EPA regs. apply to Chinese manufacturing activities because the ultimate seller of the product in the U.S. has an office in the U.S.? U.S. wage requirements apply to Chinese workers for the same reason? The Chinese factory pays U.S. utility rates for manufacturing the product in China?

Stucky

No; but they still have to pay the high taxes which pay for all of those things; as do their distributors and retailers.

bt

Identical meaning the flat top mounts. They aren't round, more flat so easier on the palms of my hands. They are 200grams also like the Bontrager bars

popeye

I can't answer your question but as a rider who has broken CF bars (factory Spec) be cautious if you notice any difference in the stiffness of the bars.

Diablito

What do you mean like if the bars are a little too flexible? I don't expect any flex in the bars. If I sense more flex then usual I'll definitely take them off.