I have always thought the wide MTB risers on track bikes looked a little odd. Even though I understood the theoretical advantages, i.e. more stability, and more leverage for hill climbing, I still couldn't wrap my head around it. I guess I've become too accustomed to using road drops.

So, after reading this post I decided to give wide risers a try. I found a set of Kona risers for $20 and some grips for $7. I chopped down the risers so they are now just slightly wider than shoulder-width. After commuting for a couple of days with the new bars, I have to say I really like the feel of them, and I can now understand why people would like them.

For now, at least until the novelty wears off, I'll be leaving them on my bike (despite how odd they may look ).