Handlebar racing AVA 400-25 mm vintage bike Eroica R398

When a handlebar bears the AVA name and a 400-25 mm measurement, the listing is already speaking to restorers who know what period-correct means. This is a used racing handlebar, identified by the inventory code Eroica R398. The 400 mm figure refers to the width across the drops. The 25 mm figure refers to the clamping zone diameter at the stem interface.

Why this bend matters on a classic build

AVA drop bars were a common sight on French and European road bikes of their era. A 400 mm width suits a broad range of shoulder widths, and the curve of an older racing bar is not the same as a modern compact shape. The drops run deeper, the reach feels more traditional, and the overall cockpit position changes accordingly. That geometry is the reason these bars still get installed on restorations headed for Eroica events.

No major structural fault is currently recorded for this unit. Minor cosmetic wear or micro-scratches from prolonged storage can be present without being individually noted. The listing images serve as the condition reference for this specific AVA bar.

Key specifications

• Handlebar type: Racing drop bar
• Width: 400 mm
• Clamp diameter: 25 mm
• Inventory code: Eroica R398
• Condition: Used, see listing photos

For anyone assembling a full cockpit, a comparable racing bar from the same category is the 3ttt 400-21.8 mm handlebar listed under Eroica R289. If the build calls for another AVA shape, the AVA 400-25.4 mm bar under Eroica R119 is also worth comparing.