I love my Cross Check. Started riding in the upright position, then got comfortable on the hoods, and now I'll move to the drops occasionally... I think it's just a matter of time on the bike. I built mine from the frame up and so I was able to choose handlebars that fit me. Look into new handlebars. I use bar end shifters and love them, I do have brifters on my other bike and they are nice too.