Many thanks for all the advice I hadn't thought of 'swept back' handlebars. I will measure the handlebars tomorrow - I have digital callipers at work. I think the centre of the handlebars (part that goes into the stem) is ever so slightly wider than the rest of the length. I should probably just buy a new bike as I'm sure its not worth all the money spent however I had the same model (different colour) stolen years ago so this one has 'sentimental' meaning!