Just picked up a 2008 Specialized Sequoia Elite (in pristine condition). First road bike I've tried that felt comfortable for this non-flexible old body. I plan to use it for roads and for some gravel/crushed granite trails and will be putting on 700x28mm tires. At some point, this might become my commuter/overnight touring bike.

The drops feel slightly narrow for me. They're 48cm wide (measured end to end which I know realize is not the way to measure them but I'm at work and can't re-measure right now - let's guesstimate 46cm) with minimal flare and (if I'm understanding the term) no sweep.

When I'm on the tops, my hands are cramped - I need at least another 1/2' or so. On the hoods, I'd like to be out a little wider. In the drops, the angle of my wrists feels uncomfortable so I want a little flare at least.

Any suggestions on what to look for as far as width and flare? Will too much width or flare cause handling problems? Go as wide as I can or just barely wider than what I have now?