Fusionfiber is a type of carbon fiber composite that uses thermoplastic nylon polymer instead of epoxy resin to “glue” the carbon fibers together.
Forge+Bond says this offers several benefits, both environmental and performance-wise. Let’s start with the claimed on-track benefits.
PERFOMANCE
Forge+Bond claims that the thermoplastic material has viscoelastic properties, meaning that when the bar flexes after an impact, some of the energy is dissipated through the chemical bonds in the material between the fibers. This supposedly dampens vibrations in the bar that would otherwise be transmitted to the rider. On their website, they claim the damping coefficient is 0.28 versus 0.20 for a comparable 800mm wide epoxy carbon bar. Basically, that means the amplitude of the vibrations dissipates faster. F+B claims that this results in a “threefold increase in vibration damping performance.” I’d take that with a grain of salt, but the idea is to reduce hand swing on bumpy trails.
In addition, they promise superior durability. In a test with 8.5kg weights on each end of the bar, the F+B 25 MTN Bar survived a drop onto a solid surface from up to 44 inches, while most epoxy carbon bars failed between 30 and 35 inches. Again, this is an unconfirmed manufacturer claim, but they should survive the odd huck-to-flat impact. Keep in mind, though, that it’s designed for all-mountain use, not enduro or downhill.
ENVIRONMENT
F+B says that their process results in less material waste, carbon dust, volatile organic compounds and energy consumption when manufactured in Utah. Additionally, the thermoplastic “glue” can be separated from the carbon fibers much more easily, making it possible to recycle the carbon and use it to make new high-quality products (if not a new handlebar). The handlebars are guaranteed for life, and if they break, Forge+Bond will take care of the recycling process at their Utah facility. There’s also a 60-day no-questions-asked return policy.
