Agreed RB.

For me, it's really more about hand real estate though.

I ride distances nowadays and I like to switch hand positions often to reduce fatigue.

Ramps are important as well. Moderate/Long is good and my preference.

[IMG]Untitled by gomango1849, on Flickr[/IMG]

[IMG]Untitled by gomango1849, on Flickr[/IMG]

The only time I deviate is on my cross bike. Still wide, but less ramp.

[IMG]DSCN1373 by gomango1849, on Flickr[/IMG]


My only recommendation on this topic is try different bars/stems till you dial in what works for you and then stick with it. I never liked narrow bars back in the 70s when I was racing and I was thrilled when the wider bars slowly trickled into the market. I had a chance recently to ride a late 70s Super, the bike I used to race. It was set up with 42s and boy, did it feel great.