I have a set of GB map-of-britain handlebars that are short by almost 1" at the end of the drops on the right hand side. I have some Raleigh bars that are short by about 1" on the left hand side. Too bad I cannot do a handlebar transfusion as both have blood type O2 *sigh* ...
1. Is this likely just a manufacturing defect? I wouldn't be surprised about that for the low-cost raleigh bars.
2. Is this possibly a modification for a time trials bike? That seems unlikely - to put barcons a time trial bike..
3. Has anyone ever done something compensate for this problem?
I will be installing barcons, and in theory I could leave the right side barcon protruding by maybe 1/2", then somehow find a way to "pad out" the barcon expander to hide the defect. It would be great if someone had a spare 1/2 - 1" piece of leftover handlebar tubing that I could have to "pad out" the right side and to help me install bar tape. Such a shim would help a great deal as I wrap from the tops WHICH IS THE ONLY SANE WAY TO WRAP BARS IN THE NORTHERN HEMISPHERE, OBVIOUSLY (:-).
Thanks,
- Don Gillies
San Diego, CA, USA