Is there an objective measure of handlebar flex/deflection? I've had a bunch of different bars in aluminum and carbon, 31.8 and 35 and the riding experience varies wildly.
I had a 35mm Chromag BZA carbon bar that deflected 1-2" at the grip under my 220lbs - it was terrifying but probably a non-issue for a lighter rider. I switched to a 35mm SixC 800mm bar which was great - really stiff but noticeable vibration damping. I recently swapped it to a 35mm Atlas aluminum bar and it's incredibly harsh by comparison.
I would happily stay on cheaper aluminum bars. I'm told the Renthal ones have a good feel but without some kind of an objective gauge it's still a $100 gamble (or a $190+ gamble for carbon).
Is there already a simple system to rank bar flex?
There's nothing better than an Orangina after cheating death with Digger.