Lifestyle: Every cyclist knows back pain. For occasional cyclists, this can be due to a lack of familiarization, but frequent cyclists are by no means spared either. The German company SQlab has consistently specialized in ergonomics in the bicycle sector and from autumn 2014 the topic Back brought into focus.
In cooperation with the orthopedist Dr. Markus Knöringer has optimized SQlab's complete range of handlebars and stems for city, trekking and mountain bikes and carefully matched them to the respective saddle models. There is also the back primer, a useful, free booklet with gymnastic exercises to strengthen the muscles. All with the goal: fewer complaints and more fun when biking.
Tobias Hild, CEO and founder of SQlab says: “The shape and dimensions of the handlebars and stem have a significant impact on hands, arms, shoulders, neck and back. Most cyclists hardly think about it. They accept the parts that are fitted as standard and have no idea what potential there is for more comfort – and therefore more performance – and safety.”
dr Knöringer adds: “Handlebars are extremely complex structures. Depending on the type of bike and the anatomy of the biker, the handlebars must fit perfectly. The width of the handlebars, the backsweep, upsweep or downsweep, rise and possibly also stretch all need to be measured correctly.”
For the new SQlab program 2015, Hild and Dr. Knöringer optimized these parameters for handlebars for city, trekking and mountain bikes. The new models ensure maximum relief for the back, especially in combination with the appropriate SQlab active saddles. There are one or two handlebar models for every area of use - each in a comfort and a sport version. All sporty models have a backsweep of 16 degrees in common. They ensure a straight line of hand and forearm. The wrist is not overstretched and the carpal tunnel is not narrowed. This minimizes the risk of falling asleep and numb fingers. There is always a matching stem for this.
For more information, visit www.sq-lab.com.