For me, the neutral position is not sacrificed. It is found on the sides of the trekking bar and is the same distance from the rider as what the flat bar would have been. The only difference is they are perpendicular to the direction of the flat bar. Regardless, it is comfortable. Plus you have the more forward and rearward positions.

Also, lycra/spandex come to mind when I think of clownish. But that is just my humble opinion