Eleiko recently announced the NxG Collection; the newest generation of world-class Eleiko barbells. This extensive guide is my attempt to consolidate all there is to know about both the NxG Collection, and the entire Eleiko barbell line-up.
In this guide I will go over the changes and upgrades have been made to the Eleiko barbell line-up as a result of NxG. I will cover specifications for each and every Eleiko Olympic bar, power bar, and multi-purpose bar, as well as most of the technique and specialty bars. Last but not least, I will point out the differences between bars in each category so that you can choose the best bar for your skill level, goals, and budget.
It is my goal to make this a one-stop resource for all things NxG. Being that this collection is brand new as of summer 2017, I am also hopeful that it will remain a useful, accurate guide for years to come. As always, questions, corrections, and contributions are welcome in the comments.
Eleiko NxG Collection – So What’s New
Eleiko is a global leader in barbell manufacturing, and they just celebrated their 60th year in business. To commemorate this exciting milestone, Eleiko took feedback from some of the world’s top athletes and combined it with their 60-years of engineering and manufacturing experience to release the newest line of Eleiko barbells; the NxG Collection. While the core specifications of Eleiko’s barbells remain unchanged (don’t fix what’s not broken), there are a number of very positive changes that have been made to the entire line.
Just about every bar is affected by the NxG changes; all Olympic WL bars, power bars, and multi-purpose bars. The only bars not affected are the technique bars and the Power Lock Olympic Bar. Additionally, the Sport Oly Trainers and the IPF Training Power Bar have had a name change. They are now “Performance Bars”.
The Shaft
There has been no change to the proprietary Swedish steel formula used for Eleiko bar shafts. Eleiko bars still feature the same whippy, 215,000 PSI shaft. However, Eleiko has made improvements to their hardening and surface treatment processes which further enhances the purity & quality of the steel. Eleiko says the following about these changes:
“Steel traits are important as the strength and flexibility of a bar work in unison with your rhythm to give optimal flexibility or spring. Our changes add control and give you a more connected feeling to the bar throughout the entire lift and at all loads.“
The Sleeves
The sleeves have been re-engineered for the Nxg Collection. Eleiko totally re-designed the bearings, modified their greasing processes, and added a dustproof seal. The result of all of these changes is higher performance and an longer lifespan (as if Eleiko didn’t offer some of the most durable bars on the market already.)
The new dustproof seal keeps grease inside the sleeve assembly while keeping moisture, chalk, and other contaminants out. No gunk in the bearings means no loss of spin over time, less wear on the components, less maintenance, and just a longer lasting bar.
The real meat and potatoes of the sleeve updates are those made to the bearings. Eleiko figured out how to eliminate direct metal-on-metal contact between the bearings and the shaft by introducing an inner track; or “race” as Eleiko calls it. It’s like a ring between the bar and the needles. This accomplishes two things. First it eliminates the flattening of the inner components over the years; which of course affects spin; and second it creates improved consistency in rotation at any and all loads. Here is how CEO Erik Blomberg explains this:
“ basically the inner race is really optimized for contact with the needle bearings, and what it does is ensure a much more consistent and better rotation throughout the entire lift at all loads, and also over time. Typically with a bar, it rotates less the more you load. With this new construction we tried to really optimize the rotation and keep it as consistent as possible throughout the load. “
So when you hand crank the unloaded sleeves of a new Eleiko you might not be overly impressed, but load any amount of actual weight and you’ll be plenty impressed with how smoothly the sleeves spin. Be it 20 kg or 200 kg, the sleeves will respond the same way.
The Knurl
The Nxg changes have led to an overhaul of sorts to the way Eleiko barbells are knurled. I think most people will find this to be great news indeed, as with the previous generation of bars there was almost no discernible difference in knurl depth from bar to bar. I for one am excited that this was addressed.
The NxG Collection features three different knurl depths and a labeling system that allows us to identify which bar has which knurl type. They aren’t really named anything, but they are classified by their depth in millimeters. The moderate knurling is 1.0 mm, the standard aggressive knurl is 1.2 mm, and the super aggressive knurling that’s reserved for the power bars is 1.5 mm. In this Eleiko Barbell Guide, I will include the knurl ratings for each bar so you know exactly what you’ll be getting.
It should be mentioned that even the 1.0 mm knurl isn’t “weak”. It’s still more aggressive than what you find on run-of-the-mill bars from other manufacturers. Matter of fact, I have physically touched the new 1.0 knurl and it is simply glorious.
Knurl Reference Guide
Here are some shots of Eleiko’s various knurls, including the NxG 1.0 and 1.2 knurls. It’s not so easy to see the difference in pictures since the patterns aren’t any different, but the clearly defined differences in depth will definitely be something you can feel.
I haven’t had access to the 1.5 knurl yet. If you own one of the new NxG Powerlifting Bars and can get a good picture of the knurling, both I and my readers would surely appreciate the contribution.
Previous Gen Knurl “firm”
Previous Gen Knurl “aggressive”
NxG Knurl 1.0
NxG Knurl 1.2
NxG Knurl 1.5
Zeroing in on your Eleiko Bar
All Eleiko bars easily fit into one of five main categories: Olympic WL bars, power bars, multi-purpose bars, specialty bars, and technique bars. To zero in on the right bar for you, first choose the most appropriate category for your needs, then read about the bars in that category and make an executive decision based on your own skill level, preferences, and budget.
Bars without NxG in their title are previous generation bars. They are fine bars indeed, but they will not have any of the NxG updates. I can think of no reason not to buy a previous generation bar when they inevitably go on sale to make room for the new NxG bars. I have not included any previous generation bars that are already removed from Eleiko’s inventory.
- Olympic Weightlifting
- Powerlifting
- Multi-Purpose Bars
- Specialty Bars
- Technique Bars
Bars marked with (*) are certified for competition use; either the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) or the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF).
Bars marked with (†) are unavailable from Eleiko-USA and must be ordered from Eleiko-Sweden.
Following the three primary bar sections (Olympic, power, and multi-purpose) is a “notes” section where I give some of my own thoughts on the bars of that category.
Olympic Weightlifting Bars
Designed for the two explosive lifts, Eleiko’s Olympic weightlifting bars are renowned for their exceptional strength, remarkable reflexive properties, and firm, consistent knurling. They are manufactured with Eleiko’s famous 215k Swedish steel and high-quality needle bearings, so the shaft will always return to straight and the sleeves will always turn over regardless of load.
Eleiko has a variety of Olympic WL to meet the needs of any athlete. In addition to their IWF Competition bar, they offer training bars for any skill level. Adding to this variety even more, all of Eleiko’s Olympic weightlifting bars are available in both a 20 kg men’s and a 15 kg women’s version. There really is an Eleiko Olympic bar option for everyone.
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko IWF Competition Olympic WL Bar (NxG)
The Eleiko Weightlifting Competition Bar is a an IWF-certified stage bar; one of only five in the world. It is the preferred Olympic bar for the majority of sanctioned weightlifting events in the Americas, Europe, Australia, Russia, and much of Asia, and it is one of the two bars that has contributed to the 1000+ world records set on Eleiko barbells.
This bar truly is the the be all and end all of professional Olympic barbells. It offers each and every feature of Eleiko’s other Olympic weightlifting Bars and the NxG updates, and it is then taken a step further by being precision calibrated down to the millimeter and the milligram, and aggressively knurled for competition. When you hear someone refer to that “Eleiko feeling”, this bar is what they are talking about.
- NxG: yes
- weights available : 15 kg / 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 25 mm / 28 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 320 mm / 415 mm
- certification: International Weightlifting Federation
- knurl: aggressive (1.2)
- center knurl: 20 kg only
- rotation: needle bearings (8)
- finish: special chrome
- price: $1049
- warranty: lifetime
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko IWF Training Olympic WL Bar (NxG)
The Eleiko IWF Training Bar is the above mentioned Competition Bar without certification. It offers all the same features, feel, and performance, but it is not calibrated for weight and it cannot be used in sanctioned events. This is the bar the vast majority of competitive lifters will want to train with as it mimics exactly the bar you will use on the stage, yet it does so for a lot less money.
It’s also worth drawing attention to the fact that the IWF Trainer and the IWF Competition Bar now officially have the same knurling (1.2) and the same bearing count (8). What this means to you is that there is literally no reason whatsoever to spend an extra $200 on the Comp Bar if you’re not actually going to use it in a sanctioned event. I don’t see the lack of calibration having any impact on training either.
- NxG: yes
- weights available : 15 kg / 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 25 mm / 28 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 320 mm / 415 mm
- knurl: aggressive (1.2)
- center knurl: 20 kg only
- rotation: needle bearings (8)
- finish: special chrome
- price: $869
- warranty: 12-years
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko Performance Weightlifting Bar (NxG)
The Eleiko Performance Weightlifting Bar is replacing the Sport Training Bar by name. The specs of both bars are technically the same, but since the Performance Bar is an NxG bar it’ll have all of the NxG features.
One of the most common Eleiko questions I get is regarding the difference between an IWF Trainer and the Sport Trainer. Well NxG changed the answer a little bit since all these bars now have the same bearing count (8 total), but the Sport Trainer/Performance WL bar offer no weight calibration, no IWF certification, and a less aggressive knurling. Otherwise they are the same.
The idea behind offering this bar is to have an option for athletes who Olympic lift as part of their strength & conditioning training, but who don’t Olympic lift competitively. The thinking is that the average lifter just doesn’t need a super aggressive knurl on a calibrated, certified bar, and they probably won’t want to pay for all that either. Better to offer an appropriate bar at a reasonable price than lose the sale to another brand entirely.
The NxG Performance Bar is the bar most athletes will end up with. It features each and every performance benefit of the Eleiko IWF bars, only it has a more moderate knurl (at least by Eleiko standards). The knurl makes this the perfect Oly bar for heavy doubles and triples, and the price makes owning a genuine, high-performance Eleiko bar possible.
- NxG: yes
- weights available : 15 kg / 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 25 mm / 28 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 320 mm / 415 mm
- knurl: firm (1.0)
- center knurl: 20 kg only
- rotation: needle bearings (8)
- finish: special chrome
- price: $729
- warranty: 10-years
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko Sport Trainer Olympic WL Bar
As I mentioned above, the Performance Weightlifting Bar is replacing the Sport Trainer by name. The specs remain the same, but the Performance Bar has all the benefit of the NxG changes. That being said, if you happen to find a Sport Training Bar for sale at a discounted price, do not hesitate to pick it up. It’s an amazing barbell, and it has routinely been one of Eleiko’s most popular Olympic bars because it offers the same performance as the IWF line for much less cash.
- NxG: no
- weights available : 15 kg / 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 25 mm / 28 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 320 mm / 415 mm
- knurl: firm (1.0)
- center knurl: 20 kg only
- rotation: needle bearings (8)
- finish: special chrome
- price: $699
- warranty: 10-years
♦ ♦ ♦
Olympic WL Bars Notes
The $1049 competition bar is an unnecessary purchase for anyone other than pro event organizers and professional coaches. The IWF Trainer is the most expensive Eleiko Oly bar you should be considering for your own personal training.
The Performance Trainer and/or the Sport Trainer will be more than enough bar for most athletes. They offer up the same performance as the IWF Trainer, but with a slightly less aggressive knurling. Now if you have an event coming up where you know Eleiko comp equipment will be used, I can see justifying the added expense of an IWF bar. Otherwise, go with the Performance Bar.
Powerlifting Bars
Eleiko’s powerlifting bars use the same 215,000 PSI Swedish shafts as the Olympic bars, only the shafts are 29 mm in diameter rather than being 28 mm. The reason for this extra thickness, of course, is to remove excessive flex from the bar, as excessive flex (or whip) when bench pressing or squatting is neither necessary or desired.
All of Eleiko’s powerlifting bars are 20 kg men’s bars (2200 mm in length). Women’s 15 kg power bars are not a thing. Power bars are bushing-based bars, and the knurl is far more aggressive than what is found on the Olympic or multi-purpose bars. The final finish will vary from bar to bar so be sure and look for that info in each bar’s spec sheets.
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko IPF Competition Powerlifting Bar (NxG)
Eleiko’s NxG Competition Powerlifting Bar is certified by the IPF and precision calibrated down to the milligram and millimeter. It has a stiff 29 mm raw steel shaft, bushing-based rotation system, center knurling, and a very aggressive outer knurl. This is a very strong, rigid bar that can handle weights in excess of 1500 kilograms (3300 pounds).
Unless you’re an event organizer or professional coach, your money is probably better spent on the Performance Powerlifting Bar than this certified competition bar. There is no reason to pay for the IPF certification on a bar that will never see a stage. However, if you prefer to train with a bare steel bar then an argument could be made for the competition bar, as the Performance variant has a galvanized zinc finish, not bare steel.
- NxG: yes
- weight: 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 29 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 433 mm
- certification: International Powerlifting Federation
- knurl: very aggressive (1.5)
- center knurl: yes
- rotation: bronze bushings (4)
- finish: raw steel
- price: $949
- warranty: lifetime
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko Training Powerlifting Bar
The Eleiko Training Powerlifting Bar is being replaced by the Performance Powerlifting Bar. While these two bars share the same specifications, the Performance Bar has all the benefit of the NxG changes. That being said, if you happen to find a Training Powerlifting Bar for sale at a low, discounted price, do not hesitate to pick it up.
- NxG: no
- weight: 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 29 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 433 mm
- markings: IPF
- knurl: very aggressive (1.5); center: yes
- rotation: bronze bushings (4)
- finish: galvanized zinc
- price: $849
- warranty: 10-years
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko Performance Powerlifting Bar (NxG)
The Eleiko Performance Powerlifting Bar is the new training variant of the IPF Competition Power Bar. It has all the same features and specifications as the Competition Powerlifting Bar except for the final finish; which is a galvanized zinc rather than raw steel. Of course this bar is also not calibrated.
The beauty of the Performance Power Bar is that the galvanized finish takes a little of the edge off the super aggressive knurling. It’s definitely still aggressive, but softening it up a bit with a finish makes it less unpleasant for sets of three, five, etc. Galvanized zinc also helps to prevent oxidation, whereas bare steel bars are just magnets for rust when not properly maintained.
- NxG: yes
- weight: 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 29 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 433 mm
- markings: IPF
- knurl: very aggressive (1.5); center: yes
- rotation: bronze bushings (4)
- finish: galvanized
- price: $849
- warranty: 10-years
♦ ♦ ♦
Powerlifting Bar Notes
The Performance Power Bar is $100 less than the IPF-certified Power Bar. Unless you are purchasing equipment for an IPF-sanctioned event or you simply favor raw steel, there is little reason to spend that extra $100.
XF Multi-Purpose Bars / Gym Bars
XF bars are multi-purpose bars; most of which are dual IWF/IPF marked. These bars are designed to offer greater versatility for athletes who do more than just snatch and clean.
Currently three Eleiko XF variants exist, but the XF Fitness Bar is in the process of being rotated out – it will be replaced by the XF Rack Bar. There was also an Imperial (pound) version of the standard XF Bar, but that appears to have been discontinued as well.
It is extremely important to point out that the XF bars still utilize the same shaft as Eleiko’s premium bars. That means that if you take one of these XF bars out of the rack and over to the platform, it will still perform like a professional Eleiko Olympic bar.
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko XF Multi-Purpose Bar (NxG)
The XF is a relatively new addition to the Eleiko line-up. It was introduced because of the growing popularity of mildly-knurled, dual-marked Olympic bars; the kind of bars being used for CrossFit and other high-repetition Oly programs. You see, prior to the release of the XF Eleiko simply didn’t offer any bars that appealed to high-intensity athletes. The super sharp knurl combined with center knurling made Eleiko bars undesirable for WODs; even if price wasn’t a factor.
The Eleiko XF Bars filled that void by toning down the knurling, removing the center knurl, adding dual IPF/IWF marks, and by making it more affordable. They changed the sleeve assembly a little buy swapping out some bearings for bushings, but the shaft itself is the same 215k PSI Swedish beauty found on all other Eleiko Olympic bars. In other words the XF still spins, whips, and performs like a professional Eleiko bar. It’s a fantastic option for athletes who want a premium multi-purpose bar.
NOTE: Eleiko USA has not made available the NxG version of the XF Bar yet – my links to the XF temporarily go to previous generation XF Bar.
- NxG: yes
- weights available: 15 kg / 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 25 mm / 28 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 320 mm / 415 mm
- markings: dual IPF/IWF
- knurl: firm (1.0); center: no
- rotation: bushing/bearing (2:1)
- price: $499
- warranty: 10-years
- other changes: removal of rubber shoulder band
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko XF Fitness Bar
The Eleiko XF Fitness Bar is the standard XF with one major difference; it has no knurling on the outside of the sleeves where the bar would contact the J-cups of a bench or power rack. The idea behind this bar is commercial gym use, where bars spend the majority of the time in the power rack – there is no knurl to wear down on hooks or safeties. This bar is odd, and is being discontinued.
- NxG: no
- weight: 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 28 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 415 mm
- markings: dual IPF/IWF
- knurl: firm (1.0); center: no
- special features: no outer knurling (snatch grip)
- rotation: bushing/bearing (2:1)
- price: $499
- warranty: 10-years
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko XF Rack Bar (NxG)
The Eleiko XF Rack Bar is the aforementioned XF Fitness Bar with a number of changes. While the XF Rack Bar still has the knurl removed from the outer portion of the shaft, the moderate 1.0 mm knurl is brought up a notch to 1.2 mm, the shaft is 29 mm instead of 28 mm, and there are only IPF markings rather than being dual-marked. It’s also now a total bushing bar, and it has a center knurl.
The XF Fitness was clearly supposed to be a gym bar, but other than the removal of that outer knurl it still screamed “WOD bar” – though a WOD bar that you couldn’t snatch. By making the changes to knurl, shaft diameter, and especially to the name, you now have a bar that is very clearly designed to be a gym bar.
So gym bar eh? Sure, but for what? Bench and power cleans only? You can’t snatch it, and it has no center knurl so it’s not going to be anyone’s go-to squat bar. Is this bar meant to be functional, or just unique? And $699 for a bar with limited usefulness? It almost made a decent Performance Power Bar replacement until they left off the center knurl.
- NxG: yes
- weight: 20 kg
- shaft diameter: 29 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 415 mm
- markings: IPF
- knurl: aggressive (1.2); center: yes
- special features: no outer knurling (snatch grip)
- rotation: bushing
- price: $699
- warranty: 10-years
- notes: this bar is random and restrictive
♦ ♦ ♦
XF Notes
Ditching the XF Fitness was a good move – it was a silly bar. The power-bar-like specs of the Rack Bar are better, but you can’t say a bar is meant for squats and not have a center knurl. I also think that deliberately removing knurl from any bar makes no sense. I would argue that worn down knurl from years of rack use (what’s that take? decades?) is better than no knurl at all, but what the hell do I know.
On the other hand the Standard XF Bar is a fantastic bar, and one that deserves serious consideration for those on a budget. Dual-marked it might be, but a premium Olympic bar it still is. Strong whippy shaft, great sleeve rotation, and quality knurl – bench with it today, clean and jerk with it tomorrow. It’s amazing in and out of the rack.
Specialty Bars
There are only two bars categorized as specialty bars in the US-market; the Power Lock and the Curl Bar. A trap bar is available in the European market, however.
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko Power Lock Olympic WL Bars
Other than the special grooved sleeves, the Eleiko Power Lock is the exact same bar as the previous generation IWF Olympic Training Bar. Same shaft, knurling, bearing count, you name it.
The Power Lock is modeled after an old 1980’s Russian Olympic Bar. As you may already know or have deduced by now, the idea behind this bar is collars that truly lock. No matter how often or how violently the bar is dropped, the special collars simply cannot move or come off without you deliberately taking them off. Incidentally, the special collars are both weighted (2.5 kg per) and included in the price of the bar.
Who would benefit from owning a Power Lock? Well consider that a lot of time adjusting plates and collars can be saved with this bar, but that time will be negated if you’re adding or removing plates after each set. This bar is best used when training alone for extended periods, or possibly with a training partner if you consistently train with the same weight. Oh and just so you know, this is by far the coolest looking barbell on the planet. Not really a huge selling point for a near-$1000 bar, but a perk nonetheless.
- NxG: no
- weights available : 15 kg / 20 kg
- collar weight: 2.5 kg per (5 kg pair)
- shaft diameter: 25 mm / 28 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 320 mm / 415 mm
- knurl: aggressive (1.2)
- center knurl: 20 kg only
- rotation: needle bearings (8)
- finish: Eleiko special chrome
- price: $989 (includes collars)
- warranty: 10-years
- review: here
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko EZ Curl Bar
The Eleiko EZ Curl Bar is easily the most impressive curl bar on the market in terms of specifications. Not only is it made from the same 215,000 PSI Swedish steel as Eleiko’s Olympic and Powerlifting bars, but it even has two needle bearings per sleeve instead of bushings. While maybe a bit over-engineered for a curl bar, at least you know it will last.
Like the vast majority of curl bars on the market, the Eleiko is only knurled at the curl and tricep hand positions; it’s not knurled around the elbows or towards the sleeves. I like to say that the whole bar shaft should be knurled because, well why not? but I don’t think it ultimately matters. The knurl depth is aggressive; same as the IWF Olympic bars actually. This is a hardcore curl bar.
- NxG: not yet
- weight: 12 kg
- length: 1320 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 230 mm
- shaft/sleeve diameter: 28 mm/50 mm
- knurl: mild
- price: $439
- warranty: 10-years
Technique Bars
Technique bars don’t need much explanation – they are teaching tools. They are made to be light enough to train proper form and technique to new and/or unconditioned athletes. Technique bars can also be used for rehabilitation and/or to teach young children; though slightly more appropriate and shorter youth bars do exist.
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko Technique Weightlifting Bars
Eleiko makes two variations of their aluminum Olympic Technique Bar. The first bar is the length of a standard woman’s bar at 2010 mm; weighing 5 kg with a 20 kg max capacity. It has a 25 mm anodized aluminum shaft and anodized aluminum sleeves that rotate on polyamide bushings (nylon, presumably.)
The second is the length of a men’s bar at 2200 mm; weighing 10 kg with a 40 kg max capacity. The 10 kg bar is otherwise the same as the 5 kg except for the shaft is chrome finished rather than anodized aluminum.
- NxG: no
- weights available : 5 kg / 10 kg
- shaft diameter: 25 mm / 25 mm
- loadable sleeve length: 415 mm
- maximum load: 20 kg / 40 kg
- knurl: aggressive (1.2)
- center knurl: no
- rotation: polyamid bushings
- finish: anodized aluminum / chrome
- price: $369-$399
- warranty: 2-years
♦ ♦ ♦
Eleiko Technique Powerlifting Bar
Eleiko’s Technique Power Bar is an IPF marked version of the above 10 kg Olympic Tech Bar. All other specs are the same: shaft diameter, max capacity, bushings, and even knurl depth. This particular technique bar has little to no demand in the USA market and is not currently offered in the states.
- NxG: no
- weight: 10 kg
- shaft diameter: 25 mm
- maximum load: 40 kg
- knurl: aggressive (1.2)
- center knurl: yes
- rotation: polyamid bushings
- finish: anodized aluminum and chrome
- price: unknown
- warranty: 2-years
Eleiko NxG Collection – Final Thoughts
Eleiko makes some of the best barbells in the world – there is no arguing that. The amount of technology and engineering expertise that goes into each and every Eleiko bar is beyond impressive, and no one else seems to be able to match that “Eleiko feeling” no matter how much money they dump into barbell development. To put it a different way, when have you heard of someone being disappointed with their Eleiko bar purchase?
Be that as it may, it would be negligent of me to not remind you that Eleiko is not the only manufacturer of IWF certified Olympic bars, IPF certified power bars, and elite-level training equipment. You may find the best fit for you among all these Eleiko bars, but that does not mean that it’s the best fit for your budget and/or skill level when other brands are factored in. It probably is, but professional-grade bars are a huge investment, so do your homework.
If you found this article helpful, please share it. Happy lifting!
Mr Jburgeson,
I just want to tell how much I appreciate your articles, your writing and your candid, honest opinion and advice. I’ve been reading all your info on bars, plates, power racks and much more. I geek out on here everyday! I’ve been waiting about eight months to buy an Olympic bar and reading and researching anything I can get my hands on before I plop down this much money. Your research and articles have been invaluable. After this last writing of yours I believe I’m ready to purchase my bar. I just want to thank you again for the help!
Best regards,
Josiah.
That’s awesome, Josiah. Thank you very much for that.
Thanks for the internet’s best barbell website. (alongside asmanyreviewsaspossible).
A treat to read! Thanks a lot for you time, effort and knowledge. I am 61 years old and relatively new to olympic style lifting, but for some reason I am fascinated with olympic barbells and olympic lifting..
Greetings from Harstad, Norway.
-Karl
PS any info on Hatlex barbells from Italy? They seem to have very good specs for the price. Thinking of getting their 10 kg junior bar or eleikos performace tr. bar 15 kg.
Thanks Karl. Already pretty cold out your way, huh?
No actually I’ve not ever seen a Hatlex bar but I am very curious to know what that laser knurl feels like. Very peculiar.
These look like Gymway bars, from Taiwan. They are a pretty solid import bar – much higher quality than what most people think of imports. Vulcan sources a couple select bars from Gymway as well. I think these guys are a very reasonable alternative to the more expensive Euro lines. Of course this is an assumption from looking over the site and the specs; I’ve not handled a Hatlex; but seems like a safe bet. This is probably an even safer assumption with junior/training bars as the maximum loads are pretty consistent among all makes, and so long as you don’t go over that max load you’ll be okay.
JB,
As Josiah says, there’s no telling how many hours I’ve sunk in geeking out on this website. Reading your articles is a true joy. :)
Now, I’m hoping you can help me with my dilemma. I use a Rogue Ohio Bar – Stainless Steel in my home gym. I have my mind set on purchasing the Eleiko NxG Training bar, but I’m quite concerned about the knurling being too aggressive for regular use. Especially since this article and the specs essentially say the new NxG Training bar is exactly the same as the Competition without the sticker.
Is there anyway you can shed some light on how aggressive the knurling on the NxG Training bar is in comparison to the Rogue Ohio SS Bar? (Since this Rogue Bar is my only reference). I do find the Rogue SS bar plenty sharp already. Also, if the NxG Training bar is indeed overly aggressive, in your experience does one really get used to it with time?
This may sound vain, but, one of the reasons I’m considering the Training bar and not the Performance is to experience the bar professionals train with :). The only way I can experience an Eleiko is if I buy it, since I don’t train at any local gym.
From all the articles I’ve read on your site and the comments posted by your readers, I think the responsible thing for me to do is to buy either the NxG Performance or the Rogue EU Bar, and concentrate on improving my skill. But the Eleiko Comp & Training Bars seems to be my muse. :) … Can’t get them out of my head.
Thank you!
Hi Subu. So it’s not going to be a huge jump for you if you’re training with the SS Ohio Bar already, as it has pretty substantial knurling for a multi-purpose bar. Now the Trainer will feel more aggressive than the SS Ohio, but I’m not particularly worried about it being a shock to you like I might be if you were lifting on a softly knurled, inexpensive WOD bar. And even still, you’ll get used to it all the same – just sooner than later since you are already using a bar with a little bit of bite.
Just remember, the performance benefits of any Eleiko bar over any 28.5 multi-purpose bars are going to be worth it if you are dead serious about the Olympic lifts. The training for these two lifts doesn’t involve long, drawn out sets or AMRAPs. It’s all triples, doubles, and singles at decent percentages. Finally, you’ll probably use straps for long sets of hang cleans and so forth, and you have a perfectly good bar already if you find yourself in the mood for a WOD-style, high rep set of cleans (unless you plan to sell the Ohio that is). But still, a couple weeks in Eleiko knurl will be the new norm for you.
For what it’s worth, nobody has ever regretted buying an Eleiko – maybe save for someone who couldn’t actually afford it and then they missed rent or something. The Euro will probably feel less substantial to you because of what you’re currently lifting on – much softer knurl – still a nice bar though. I think you’re leaning on Eleiko anyway.
Last thing – if you’re really concerned about the Trainer because maybe the SS Ohio is pushing the aggressiveness levels for you, why not consider the NxG Performance Trainer. It has the 1.0 mm knurl versus the 1.2 mm, but is essentially the same bar as the Trainer. All it lacks is the certification calibration. Same spin, whip, finish, etc. Anyway I hope this is somewhat helpful to your decision making.
Great fan of your website and videos. How does the Eleiko Performance Power Bar compare to Kabuki’s New Generation Power Bar? Especially concerned about the knurl.
I don’t have the Kabuki yet – and likely won’t ever invest in it myself – but nearly nothing compares to Eleiko power bar knurl. It’s 25% more aggressive than an Eleiko Competition Oly Bar which is already generously aggressive.
Truth be told, I don’t see spending $600+ on a power bar that’s not an Eleiko – especially when we’re not even talking about a stainless steel bar (which is a big part of the reason I haven’t bothered to review it.)
Appreciate your response. Would you recommend the Eleiko Performance Powerlifting bar for novices? Besides Kabuki, the other contenders I am considering are Rogue Ohio Power Bar Stainless Steel and Rogue Ohio Bar Stainless Steel. Does the Eleiko Performance Powerlifting bar also have a volcano knurl? Also is it okay to use the Eleiko Performance Weightlifting Bar, NXG for powerlifting movements Squat, Deadlift and Bench Press. Eleiko’s weightlifting bar is $100 cheaper than their powerlifting counterpart. Furthermore, it will be more versatile. We don’t intend to lift more than 225 pounds for the next 1-2 years. Same bar will also be used by wife.
Honestly I don’t recommend either the Eleiko or Kabuki Powerlifting Bars for novices. These are very expensive and only nominally better bars than what’s out there right now for a fraction of the cost.
Now the NxG Performance Oly Bar is a better priced bar, and also a more versatile bar. It absolutely could be used for the big-3 in addition to the two Oly lifts; especially at sub 225 weights. I frequently squat with a 28 mm Oly bar simply because I like 28 mm bars. I’ve been known to bench with 28 mm bars too – and actually until I transitioned all my plates to kilograms I used to use the Eleiko XF for bench press, but sadly my XF is an Imperial bar so it messed with my math.
Ya I can see buying a Performance Oly Bar if you weren’t put off by the high price of Eleiko bars. It will last a lifetime, and outside of insane lifting the difference in 28 and 29 mm bars really matter very little. Also 28 mm will probably be more comfortable for your wife than a 29 mm bar. She may still end up wanting a 25 mm bar, but you’ve got a better chance with 28 than 29. If you were to decide between the two Rogue SS bars, both are great, but the standard Ohio is more versatile, and it doesn’t have that super aggro center knurl the like SS OhiO Power.
I thought there will be a huge performance difference between the bars given the price difference. Thanks for clarifying that they are only nominally better for novice lifters especially for powerlifting. That was really helpful.
I understand why elite OLY bars are significantly more expensive than medium quality OLY/multi-purpose bars (needle bearings and great spin). However, the only difference between elite powerlifting bars versus their medium quality counterparts should only be the knurl and how much they bend/steel. Then again once you move into heavy weights, people get specialized deadlift and squat bars.
For sub 225 pound weights, I guess besides the knurl and feel of the bar, all medium or better quality powerlifting bars will perform the same.
Will also try the OLY bar as per your recommendation. Thank you :).
Have a question and a comment … What you do in terms of reviews and recommendations is invaluable and greatly appreciated … I am a regular Joe that has a decent garage gym … 65 years young and still got the iron bug … Train for a little over an hour every other day … Push- pull routines … Not a powerlifter, at my age not even heavier weights … But I do invest only in the highest quality equipment … If you had to invest in one powerlifting bar and the absolute best quality is the criteria and money is not an issue … Would you purchase the Eleiko IPF Competition Powerlifting Bar or something else and why … Thanks for your time and advice … Ben
I wouldn’t buy an Eleiko Power Bar for anything but a competition that required an Eleiko bar. Price is obscene for a private gym, and their quality / performance is not so unique anymore; especially in terms of power bars. One could argue for an Eleiko Weightlifting bar still being at the top of its game, but a power bar? Nah. I’m a huge fan of American Barbell – I think they make some of the high-quality bars on the planet. The Mammoth is a great power bar, but it has a milder knurl than most comp-grade power bars, and that may be unsettling. For an import, the Vulcan Absolute SS Power Bar is a beast. Incredible knurl, rigid as hell, zero risk of oxidation from end to end.
Honestly, some of the best power bars on the market right now are not the most expensive. I mean the Texas Power Bar, the Mammoth or Elite by AB, even the stainless Ohio Power Bar are all a fraction of the cost of an Eleiko or a Kabuki (of which I’d buy an Eleiko over if I was going to spend that much just for the sake of spending that much). I don’t think quality is ever going to be called into question during our lifetimes when dealing with any of these bars in that $400+ range, and in the power bar world, cost alone is always indicative of overall value… only when you’re talking about cheap power bars.
I hope I didn’t just over-complicate things for you.
Do you happen to know if the Eleiko Performance Powerlifting Bar has smooth sleeves or ribbed sleeves like Rogue bars? My Eleiko Sport Training plates don’t like the Rogue ribbed sleeves at all, and bite and scrape when I take them on and off.
Yeah I feel you about those grooved sleeves, but no I haven’t had the NxG power bar around here so I’m not sure what the current status on that is. I don’t want to guess or assume based on other bars either, and be wrong. You may want to ask them directly just to be sure.
Sorry I wasn’t more help.
Do you think the new XF bar is a decent “single bar” for a home gym? Mostly for squat/bench/deadlift/press. Think the 1.0mm knurl is still decent enough to deadlift 4 or 5 plates for reps? I am not sure if its worth going up to the 1.2mm and get the rack bar or WL training bar.
I think the XF is a solid choice. Eleiko’s 1mm knurl is adequate; better than what’s found on a great many different multi-purpose bars out there, that’s for sure. I probably wouldn’t suggest paying for an Eleiko 28 mm WL bar for the big-3, but the XF and XF Rack Bar are both perfect for these lifts if you’re willing to pay Eleiko’s premium. I owned an XF for years. I really enjoyed benching a 28 mm bar. I only got rid of the thing because I had the 45-lb version rather than a 20 kg (I don’t think they even offer both anymore – not positive). Anyway, yeah. Great bar. Pricey for what it is, but not something you’ll likely find lacking.
How does the knurling of the performance powerlifting bar compare to the stainless steel Ohio power bar?