S&M Race XLT Bars (2025 Review)

The S&M Race XLT bars are lightweight, heat-treated 4130 chromoly handlebars designed for BMX racing and high-speed riding.

Built on the legacy of the legendary Slam bars, the Race XLT series refines classic geometry for performance.

These bars are 4Q Baked heat-treated, ensuring maximum strength without excessive weight.

If you need responsive handling and a dialed front end, the Race XLT bars perfectly blend stiffness, lightweight construction, and control.

Can You Use S&M Race XLT Bars For Freestyle?

While not recommended by default, I’ll say this: If you ride trails and transitions without heavy impacts, these bars will work like a dream.

Moreover, if you ride mainly skateparks and bowls and are all about finding smooth transition lines, you’ll also be good to go with these.

But know that if you crash and your bike lands sketchily, the Race XLT bars are more prone to denting and bending.

However, these are made by S&M, so although they are light and meant for racing, they’re still super tough.

S&M Race XLT Bars Review

1. Design & Build Quality

The S&M Race XLT bars are made from 4130 chromoly tubing, which has been 4Q Baked – heat-treated – to maximize strength while minimizing weight.

This allows riders to push their limits without worrying about excessive flex or failure.

These bars feature a flatter sweep for a more aggressive stance, helping riders maintain better control at high speeds.

The construction (tubing) is thinner-walled than the Slam bars, keeping the weight down while still offering durability for race tracks, light park sessions, and even dirt jumps.

2. S&M Race XLT Bars Key Features

• 4Q Baked heat-treated 4130 chromoly: Maximizes strength while keeping weight low.
• Flatter sweep design: Provides a more aggressive feel for high-speed control.
• Multiple rise options: Available from 7.5” to 10” to match different rider preferences. (I think this is the bar with the most different rise options – something for everyone – beginners and experienced riders.)
• Lightweight tubing: Thinner-walled than traditional Slam bars for racing efficiency.
• Made in the USA: High-quality craftsmanship from S&M. Period.
• Available in multiple colors: Black and white.

3. How S&M Race XLT Bars Ride

The S&M Race XLT bars offer a responsive, stiff feel, making them perfect for BMX racers and riders who demand precision.

The flatter sweep helps keep the front end aggressive and controlled, allowing for quick maneuvers and stable landings.

If you’re used to heavier bars, the Race XLT will feel noticeably lighter.

This helps with quicker acceleration, improved manualing, and better overall bike control.

These bars are ideal for riders who want a well-balanced, high-performance handlebar without sacrificing strength or durability.

To further lighten your frond end, check out my S&M Race XLT stem review.

4. Real Rider Feedback

• “These bars are the perfect balance of light and strong. I run the 8.5″ rise for racing, and they feel super responsive in the gate and on straightaways.” – Olivia K. (BMX racer)
• “I switched to the 9.0″ Race XLTs, and they’ve improved my handling on the track. The flatter sweep helps with control at high speeds, and they feel great out of the gate.” – Mark T. (BMX racer)
• “I’ve tried a lot of bars over the years, and these are my go-to for racing. The 8.75” rise gives me just the right amount of height without feeling sluggish.” – Bryan J. (BMX racer)
• “I ride trails mostly, and the Race XLT bars hold up to big landings without feeling too heavy. Love the classic geometry and stiffness! By the way, I ride the 9.5″ rise version.” – Kris D. (Trail rider)

5. S&M Race XLT Bars Specs

• Rise options & weights:
  • 7.5”: 24.5 oz (694.6 g)
  • 7.75”: 24.9 oz (705.9 g)
  • 8.00”: 25 oz (708.7 g)
  • 8.25”: 25.9 oz (734.3 g)
  • 8.50”: 26.9 oz (762.6 g)
  • 8.75”: 26.9 oz (762.6 g)
  • 9.00”: 27.8 oz (788.1 g)
  • 9.25”: 30.6 oz (867.5 g)
  • 9.50”: 31.0 oz (878.8 g)
  • 9.75”: 34.4 oz (975.2 g)
  • 10.00”: 34.9 oz (989.4 g)
• Width: 29” (9.75” & 10” rise are 29.5” wide)
• Backsweep: 8°
• Upsweep: 4°
• Colors: Black, white
• Price: $89.95

Conclusion: Should You Get The S&M Race XLT Bars?

If you’re looking for a lightweight, strong, and performance-driven handlebar, the S&M Race XLT bars are a great option.

They boost the Slam bars’ proven geometry with lighter/thinner tubing, improved sweep, and multiple rise options.

These bars provide excellent handling and comfort for racers, dirt riders, and those who prefer a fast, responsive feel.

Note: For freestyle, I recommend these only to flow and transition riders (aka light trail, bowl, and skatepark riding).

A thicker-walled bar might be better if you need extra durability for heavy street and park riding, but the Race XLT bars are a top choice for those who want speed, control, and precision.

But for any BMX racer out there, whether you’re a beginner and need a small rise or an experienced shredder who needs a taller rise, I highly recommend this bar.

Further reading:

• How to choose a BMX bar
• How long a BMX Bar lasts?
• BMX bar dimensions & specs (explained!)
• BMX bar angle (forward, aligned?)
• What is the ideal BMX bar width?