SQlab 314 Review: A Gravel Handlebar with Character – But Not Without Compromises

During a 700 km bikepacking trip through the stunning landscapes of Piedmont, Italy, I had the chance to put the SQlab 314 handlebar to the test. The result? A bar that shines in terms of comfort and ergonomics – though it's not without a few compromises that potential buyers should be aware of.

Tech Specs

Price: €130 (as of 16.12.24 from SQlab) – received free of charge for this test
Weight: 333g (in 44 cm width)
Shape: 25 mm rise, 10–2° frontsweep that flattens towards the hoods, 120 mm drop, 14° flare after the brake hoods, and 90 mm reach (available in widths from 40 to 46 cm)

Ergonomics & Comfort – A Highlight for Long-Distance Riding

There’s not much I need to say about SQlab as a brand – based in Taufkirchen, Germany, they’re known for designing ergonomic components aimed at maximizing rider comfort. From handlebars and saddles to cycling apparel, SQlab offers something for every kind of rider.

As a big fan of their 614 gravel saddle, I was particularly curious to see how they would approach the design of a gravel handlebar. Earlier this year, I mounted the 314 and have since logged many kilometers on it, both on short rides and longer adventures. Time to take a closer look.

First Impressions

The first thing you'll notice is the 25 mm rise, which lifts the bar and gives you a more upright riding position. On second glance, the 314 reveals a unique – and typically SQlab – design. It clearly draws inspiration from the road-focused 312 model, with the real standout being the frontsweep, which is especially noticeable on the tops and gradually flattens out toward the hoods.

According to SQlab, this shape naturally aligns your wrists when holding the bar narrower than shoulder width – which, in their logic, is always the case on the tops. They recommend choosing a bar only 1–2 cm wider than your shoulders.

Visually, the 314 looks more like a road bar at first glance, setting it apart from many aggressively flared gravel bars. The hoods have no flare, while the drops kick out to a noticeable 14°. The tops provide a wide, flat, and very comfortable grip area.

Ride Feel – A Comfortable Alternative

Switching to the 314 was a significant change from my previous Redshift gravel bar. While both bars feature a rise, they follow very different design philosophies. Redshift focuses on backsweep and heavy flare; SQlab takes the opposite route with frontsweep and minimal flare.

Personally, I’m more sensitive to saddle changes than handlebars, so I adapted quickly. The tops of the 314 won me over right away – the wide surface area provides a relaxed, ergonomic grip that shines on long rides.

The 90 mm reach is longer than most gravel bars, and some riders may need to adjust stem length accordingly. However, the added frontsweep definitely enhances comfort. The 25 mm rise also promotes a more upright posture – a big plus for many gravel enthusiasts.

Downsides: Clamp Area, Width Options, and Rise

But the 314 isn’t perfect.

The clamp area is too short to fit aerobars – a dealbreaker for bikepackers who rely on them for added hand positions.
The width range starts at 40 cm, with SQlab recommending a bar 1–2 cm wider than your shoulders. For riders with narrower shoulders – especially women – a 38 cm option would be a welcome addition.
The diameter of the tops can also be a challenge. Paired with SQlab’s 714 bar tape, the grip may feel too bulky for riders with smaller hands. My riding partner experienced this firsthand on our trip.
The 25 mm rise can also be a drawback if you're happy with your current cockpit height. Unless your setup allows for a negative-rise stem, you may end up higher than you'd like.
That extended 90 mm reach might require a shorter stem, depending on your fit – an extra cost and not something everyone will notice or need.
And at 330 g, it’s not particularly lightweight for an aluminum bar in this price range. While weight isn't usually critical for contact points (pun intended), it may be a concern for some buyers.

SQlab 714 Bar Tape – A Worthy Companion

I also tested the SQlab 714 bar tape, which was developed specifically for the 314 and gravel riding. It impressed me with its thickness and excellent damping, which held up perfectly even after 2,000 km.

At €50, it’s definitely on the pricier side – but in my opinion, it's worth the investment.
The grip was excellent across all conditions, especially in cold weather and with gloves.
Only during our scorching 38–40°C ride through Piedmont did things get a little slippery. My hands felt like waterfalls, and I occasionally slipped slightly – but I doubt any bar tape would’ve performed better in those conditions.

Verdict – A Strong Recommendation with a Few Caveats

The SQlab 314 is a well-thought-out handlebar with outstanding ergonomics, especially suited for long rides. Still, I’d love to see a version without rise, narrower width options, and a longer clamp area for aerobars.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, ergonomic gravel bar and don’t need aerobars, the SQlab 314 is a strong contender. It’s priced at the higher end for an aluminum bar, but you get a lot of value in return.
For those who prioritize comfort and don’t need a super-narrow setup, the 314 won’t disappoint.

Thanks for reading, and happy holidays! I’ve got another review coming around New Year’s – so if you find a quiet moment during the break, stay tuned!