Originally Posted by
tendency
Well, son, I been crushing gnarly, b****in' single track since the late 80s on bars that could double as a straw in my post ride mai thai they're so narrow. So I'm down w/ moisture: don't get these giant 'surf board' bars. I guess you need extra stability to make up for other defects in your skillz. and suspension? what's that?
What a head case. Mountain bikes have changed tremendously over the past 30 years, even over the past 10 years, with changes in frame geometry, changes in suspensions, changes in rims and tires, and changes in the drivetrain. To me these are positive changes and not a reason to throw rocks at people who welcome the newer designs. There are also significant differences in trails in Arizona as compared to the PNW and so it is not one bike for all riders in all parts of the country.
My new Specialized Stumpjumper has 780mm bars so that is what most people want to use. A 780mm bar can be easily shortened for those with short arms with little effort. It is after all a recreational activity and not something to get a swelled head over.