They are, but if you consider that they're one-finger levers, it's actually the perfect place for them to be. I find it really comfy to have them so close.

Plus I already trimmed the Yeti grips down! I wanted to be able to have a full hand on the grip that wouldn't shift the gears for climbing too, so yes, it looks a little odd, but it's functional! Also, the photo makes it look more weird than it really is due to the angle downwards that it fails to capture properly. I promise you you'd like it if you rode it!

Cheers fellas, I appreciate the feedback.