Originally Posted by GrannyGear
I don't see many aero bar riders on the roads in my area. I suspect they have come to be considered a bit geekish among the non tt racer crowd, but I find them comfortable on long rides and a nice position for riding into the wind...not to mention a real change of position for my hands. Others out there using aero bars?
g
I am a recent convert to aero bars thanks to recommendations from another forum member. Here is what I experienced:
Same speed with use of aero bars requires less energy. (wind resistance!)
This energy is now available for sprinting or powering up a hill.
I use the leverage of the aero bars to lift a few inches off the saddle in order to really sprint with full power.
My average speed has increased at least 5%. I have gone in aero bar position for over 50 miles on one trip. My aero bar position is not set aggressively low, more for comfortable long distance.
I ride often in Detroit Metro Park roads. There are many aggressive riders there. Most have aero bars. I cannot keep up with these guys. Going over 25 MPH average.
(Group riding!)
I also ride a lot on R to T's. There nobody (except me) uses aero bars.