Originally Posted by
BluesDawg
What I have always heard about this is much like what AJ said. The more relaxed, upright position with the hands resting on the tops keeps the upper body muscles relaxed and opens the chest for better breathing. I especially like this position when I am on a long climb where I can find a gear that allows me to spin along comfortably at 70-80 rpm.
+1
I find that I'm more tense if I start climbing with my hands on the hoods. When I move my hands to the tops of the bars, it mentally and physically shifts me into another zone, and I'm ready for the climb.