Hello - I have a couple Enve bars and both what I would call a gritty friction layer over the stem area to prevent slipping. I actually asked Enve about this and they said because of it I don’t need carbon paste. I have never experienced any slipping and the bars have been rock solid. However upon cleaning and inspecting today I noticed this gritty friction layer is chipping. Is this just the friction area layer? Just trying to make sure it’s not any actual damage to the carbon so curious if any other Enve bar owners have this?
It seems possible that it’s just the friction layer, but your best bet is really to take this to a bike shop and ask them in person. It’s not worth the risk if you’re at all concerned about it.
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I would contact Enve directly. They are best qualified to diagnose this and handle it appropriately. Carbon fiber requires a specific knowledge and training to properly examine any carbon fiber condition and render a decision. There is zero guarantee that every bike shop has an employee on staff with the requisite knowledge to give a proper inspection. I say this with some training in aviation composite repair and with that I would still not consider I know enough in the particular structure of a bicycle part. Seek out a qualified expert no matter what.
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