Mountain Biking - riser bars

hey peoples,
i was just wondering if anyone knows if having riser bars as opposed to straight bars will make you go any slower...
I have straight bars but I may get risers - any suggestions for some decent middle of the range bars?
thanx for reading

You have to weed your way through all of the hype and critism that risers have evoked. If you're into a low forward riding position (XC race style, although not so much anymore as some people I know are racing XC with risers...) then risers won't fit your bill. If you like a bit more upright riding position and a wider bar (many risers are wider than flats which gives you more control over the front wheel = faster!) then you'll love risers.

You have to think of why you are buying risers. Like Tony said, the width is a consideration. If you want the more comfortable hand position options a riser offers, (usually 8 degree sweep vs. 3 or 5 degree with flats) but not the increased height try a 1 inch riser like an Easton Monkeylite. If you want to put your riding position back like it was, flip your stem (if you have a threadless headset and your stem is rise isn't too steep). I bought the Monkeylite to avoid a weight penalty as most risers weigh more than flats. My hands and wrists feel way better after a long ride, too.
Good luck

yep i'm the guy who posted this original thread and i'm now the proud owner of some new axiom risers, thanx for your help