michael wrote:I once bought a TT bike from the Team Telekom team.
And when I removed the handlebar tape from the TT bars I saw the bars were modified. Holes were drilled in the carbon bar to fit Campy levers and holes for the cables. The ends of the carbon bar had been cut. Holes in the armrest for custom fit etc. etc.
another issue is 'how long will you use the bars for?'. a TT bike from a sponsored team would probably be used for only a season (albeit 'heavily'). but then it's otherwise a 'throw away' item that's served its purpose and is then replaced (no disrespect to you for buying it
). in such a situation, a modified component is likely to last the distance.
but if you're planning on using a modified component for years, under varying conditions, and perhaps not as well maintained (inspected) as a pro-bike, who's to know what the reliability will be like?
unless you've put in the R&D, performed the job at an expert level, i wouldn't risk it. 99.9% chances are you'll be fine, but you're otherwise putting your health/life at risk. not worth it.