Box Components are a relatively new player in the MTB components game, formed in 2011 by ex-downhiller and BMXer Toby Henderson (who previously fronted THE-Toby Henderson enterprises). Their range is small but with a focus on high quality, and are even making forays into specialist areas like brakes and drivetrain, which we hope to have a look at in the future. We just got their bars, stem and grips for review, so let’s take a look…
The X carbon handlebars stand out immediately with their unique shapes. From the 35mm diameter clamping area, they form into a hexagonal shape before the rise kicks in, where a V-shape forms into the round control-clamping area. It certainly looks unlike any other bar and draws a raft of curious comments.
Unidirectional carbon fibre is used, and with the 35mm diameter they feel very stiff and solid on the bike. There are five different widths and rises available, from 700mm wide/6mm rise through to 800/30 for DH.
Our bars are 800/15 with a 7º backsweep, which we cut to 780mm. Check out the other options here.
The Cusp stem is a real looker and clamps the bars with a 4-bolt faceplate and the steerer with two opposing bolts. It comes in three lengths, 45, 55 and 65mm.
The shape might not be everyone’s cuppa, but we love it and there was a good deal of bargaining to see who would get to mount it on their bike. The gloss black finish looks great and there are four other colour choices available.
Design and aesthetics seem to be big on Box’s agenda, and the big open clamp not only looks good but helps with ease of bar positioning (and probably saves a few grams too).
Rounding off the ensemble are the ODI compatible lock-on Hex grips. These use a thin diameter, tacky rubber with a dimpled/knurled pattern and a couple of ridged sections. Rod’s been giving these a run and his review is in Issue 64 about to hit the streets.
We’ll bring you reviews on the bars and stem in Issue 65. Box components are available through Action Down Under.
