Originally Posted by
robatsu
Back in the day, they were on mid range and lower bikes that were scorned by "serious" cyclists (like myselfs) and become hopelessly associated with hopeless Fred-dom. In this they are similar to turkey wings.
There are arguments for and against their ergonomics depending on one's riding style, but, in my opinion, it is ultimately guilt by association for them.
i agree with this. i scorned them for a long time because they just didn't come on nice bikes. i currently run them on my 1985 touring rig because my knees kept hitting my bar-end shifters when i was out of the saddle. they work great for me on the stem.