Triathlon - How far apart should Aero bars be?

I recently got these as a gift, Profile-design Sonic CSX. I have installed them very close to the stem because my handle bar tapers into a smaller diameter. Is there a rule of thumb to spacing these bars away some each other.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a146/Profoxcg/DSC06714.jpg
Overall View.

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a146/Profoxcg/DSC06717.jpg
Front View Close up.

Thank you !

Whatever is comfortable for you. That's the main rule.

My handle bar is 42cm wide as a point or reference.

Do you loose bike control the closer they are to each other? is it more aero and better to a certain point? maybe some people can post some pics of their "dash" or can someone link me to one?

Closer generally means more aero, but it can be so close it is not comfortable, which is not good. If they feel fine then they are fine, if they feel too close or far, then change them.

^ They look weird/odd, but they feel good.

I recommend the ultra wide 'Ben Hur' model with spear holders. When racing in Rome it cuts competition and removes drafting problems impressively!

As close together as is Comfy..remember if your not comfy you will not stay in ther aero position..closer is better bust Comfy is best....What ever works for you....

Ride strong

Another thing to consider is your breathing. Aero is critical, but you don't want to pull them so close together that it forces your shoulders so far in that you compress your chest and affect your breathing. You want your arms to be as close together and comfortable as possible while still allowing your chest to be fully open so you can breathe at maximum efficiency. I think it is possible to be extremely aero and yet sacrifice time/energy output in the long haul. Just my 2 cents (disclaimer: I am by no means a professional bike fitter).

makes a lot of sense thank you guys.

I'm having the same problem, My bars were so close that my forearms were hurting, of course I've been called Popeye before because I have large forearms but I think I'm going to move mine out and try it. now if i can just get my left cleat to lock in I'd be fine!

Another thing to consider is your breathing. Aero is critical, but you don't want to pull them so close together that it forces your shoulders so far in that you compress your chest and affect your breathing. You want your arms to be as close together and comfortable as possible while still allowing your chest to be fully open so you can breathe at maximum efficiency. I think it is possible to be extremely aero and yet sacrifice time/energy output in the long haul. Just my 2 cents (disclaimer: I am by no means a professional bike fitter).

I agree with Plainsman. Too close together and my chest feels restricted. Not to mention my steering seems too nervous. Width gives you balance and balance gives me confidence - which means I'l go faster.

Personal preference at the end of the day though. Be interesting to walk around on a time trial day at a pro-tour event ( or even major tri race) and see what everyones formula is. I'd bet there's a lot of variation.

Some experts have determined that if your torso is horizontal the arm width doesnt matter. If you're not that low, than go narrow like you have.