Source: descent-world.co.uk (written by Alan Milway)

Renthal is not a new name to many – in fact it is probably one of the most successful names in Motocross. Formed in the 1960′s by 2 friends who started bending pipe to form Trials handlebars, this English brand has quite an image in Motorsport and has supported Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart (among others) to countless vitories.

They have now made the transition to producing mountain bike products and I was like a child at Christmas when the package arrived with the famous logo adorning the parcel tape! It is always exciting when a brand with so much experience makes the transition into another sport- what will their take be on mountain bike products?

Renthal Fatbars

Handlebars:

These are pre-production bars, sent over in time for a good testing in the Mountains. However production versions are imminent. They are scaled down ‘Fatbars’ (the same name is used on a form of brace less bar produced for motocross bikes). The finish is faultless as expected and as the name suggests they are oversize clamp diameter fitment of 31.8mm. Width as measured was 720mm – not narrow at all, but not at the full broom handle width they could have been. Rise is probably best described as ‘medium’ not low rise/flat but not high and wavy as riser bars were in days gone by. Sweep is spot on. They look the business and they’re getting a good workout in the Alps so more to come on these soon.

Renthal Fatbars

Renthal Chain Ring

Chainring:

P.i.m.p was the first word to my lips as I pulled this from the package. Not the most politically correct adjective I could have chosen but the finish, etching and machining gone into this featherweight- yet tough, chainring surpassed any other I’ve seen recently. I have a 36tooth for the Saints but I am sure there will be a range of other fitments available. I am sure there will be little to tell with this as it will do the job, last for ages and look the business. Gorgeous.

Renthal Chain Ring

Stem:

Yet to become available, but we wait with bated breath for their offering….

As you might have spotted, these parts are fitted to a rather special Orange Blood. Special geometry, special ride. More on this beauty to come too.

Chainrings are available now, RRP = £39.95

Fatbars are available now, RRP = £59.95

Stem will be available in a couple of months, RRP = £79.95

Ison are distributing all of the Renthal products so check them out and hound them for pre-orders:

Ison: http://www.isondistribution.co.uk / [email protected] / Tel: 01223 568361

Or check out the Renthal website: www.renthal.com