Originally Posted by
meanwhile
That's a good point and counterintuitive to someone used to MTBs.
Actually they will - which is why MTBs have them. They're much better for laying on the power for a climb or what have you - they're closer tonthe on-the-hoods position of a crosser, although not as comfortable. Plus they give a position where the carpal bones aren't being squeezed into each other. Like the OP said, "Extra positions".
And - the race I plan on doing seems a bit unconventional - it has lots of gravel road sections and some paved sections. Here the drops will have give an aero advantage.
But I do take your good point about drops (if break levers are accessible) being a good control position.