I use risers for bike polo and occasionally leave them on for rides around town. It's not my favorite because I like having the drops for hills and sprints but in all honestly the only difference I can feel under relaxed riding conditions is some relief in the taint area. I have looked over my shoulder and seen my girlfriend cocking her elbows out though. I'm not sure what that is about and I'm not going to ask because she is very touchy about her riding technique.