Integrated cockpits are beautiful - if they fit. Handlebar stem units that hide the cables inside them can be roughly divided into the following categories: fully integrated cockpits with and without adjustment options, partially integrated cockpits where the handlebars and stem can be separated, and special cockpits with interchangeable spacers.
Whether and to what extent the cockpit can be customised to personal preferences varies greatly from model to model. If you decide in favour of an integrated road bike cockpit, you should be sure of your riding position or have undergone a fitting. More on this in the Interview with bike fitter Ilona Herbert.
Integrated cockpits in comparison
Fully integrated cockpit without adjustment
Common on top models from many manufacturers. Height adjustment is usually done by shortening the steerer tube; typically: 30-40 mm. Modifications require work on the brake hydraulics, as the lines are routed through the stem and bearings. In principle, however, a round steerer tube also fits Semi-integrated cockpits.
Divisible spacers make it possible to adjust the height without having to use the hydraulics of the Brakes to touch. Some manufacturers offer partially and fully integrated cockpits for the same bike model, such as Specialized for the Tarmac SL 8. Special spacers may be necessary to seamlessly connect the frame to the frame.
Fully integrated cockpit without adjustment - advantages & disadvantages
Plus: Compatible with modular solutions, height adjustment using spacers
Minus: Length adjustment only by replacing the cockpit
Fully integrated cockpit with height and width adjustment (Canyon)
Canyon is fitting cockpits with built-in height and width adjustment on its top models in the Aeroad, Ultimate and Endurace ranges. Height adjustment: previously 15 mm, 20 mm on the new Aeroad.
Due to the design, only Canyon cockpits fit. Customisation is only possible by swapping after purchase.
Fully integrated cockpit with adjustment - advantages & disadvantages
Plus: Integrated adjustment
Minus: No adjustment possible beyond the small adjustment range
Partially integrated cockpit (stem and handlebars can be separated)
The most flexible solution, especially if the cables are covered under the stem. It is then possible to replace the stem without opening the cables. In the case of partial integration, there are also matched parts so that they look as if they have been cast from a single mould (BMC, Scott, etc.).
If the clamping dimensions are standard, alternative handlebar and stem types can be used. These include upward-facing handlebars (+15 mm in height) or particularly short/long stems (60-140 mm). The problem area is the connection to the frame.
Semi-integrated cockpit - advantages & disadvantages
Plus: Modular, large customisation range, lower conversion costs
Minus: Not quite as elegant and lightweight as one-piece cockpits
Special cockpit with interchangeable spacers
On the Simplon Pride II, the fastest aerodynamic bike that TOUR has ever measured, the two-piece cockpit can be adjusted by 45 mm in height and 40 mm in length in two steps by replacing the special stem and special spacers. It is not even necessary to open the cables. The Pride II is therefore an example of a good design that combines a high degree of integration with practicality.
The Pride II is therefore an example of a good design that combines a high degree of integration with practicality.
Special cockpit - advantages & disadvantages
Plus: Modular, relatively large customisation range
Minus: requires special components
"Advice before you buy!": Interview with bike fitter Ilona Herbert from Radlabor München
TOUR: Are more customers coming to the fitting with their bike or are they getting advice before they buy?
Ilona Herbert: Most people who come to us for a fitting bring their bike with them. However, we recommend a consultation before you buy, because only then can you be sure that the bike fits your desired riding position.
TOUR: What experience do you have with integrated cockpits?
Ilona Herbert: It often happens that the length or height of one-piece cockpits needs to be adjusted; whether this is actually done after the fitting is up to the customer.
TOUR: Can you tell from your database whether the desired bike will fit a customer?
Ilona Herbert: Yes, we have very detailed data on the bikes and, if in doubt, we check for the customer if something is still unclear. We calculate the hand position based on the frame data and the information on spacers, stems and handlebar reach. If the handlebar reach is not specified, we calculate with a length of 90 millimetres.
TOUR: What coordinates do you give customers so that the hand position fits?
Ilona Herbert: We specify the centre of the upper link instead of the hand position on the brake lever because this value is easier for the bike dealer to record and easier to reproduce.
TOUR: Would you be happy with the stack and reach plus values propagated by TOUR - the hand position on the brake lever?
Ilona Herbert: Yes, for customers it is certainly a good value for the optimum setting of their bike, but the setting of the brake levers is very individual and depends on the respective customer and their sitting position.
TOUR: How precise does the fitting or the adjustment of the hand position have to be? To the millimetre or is centimetres enough?
Ilona Herbert: You can't say that in general terms. We optimise the bike during the appointment; this depends on the customer's physical requirements, such as mobility and strength. This can lead to deviations in the millimetre range.
