As the OP of this thread, I tried the drops again today on a 35 mile ride. Fairly quick ride and some climbing. I was riding with my brother, who is a much better, and younger rider. He told me I was in the drops more on this ride than all the previous rides combined. Thought I looked good in the drops and should stay with it. OK, but I definitely have some muscles telling me about it. Descending in the drops is good. As mentioned by someone earlier, it is better to be in the drops when the road is rough. Obviously going to take some time.