Originally Posted by
Bogey Speedwell
I should also have indicated I live in the driftless part of Wisconsin so every thing is essentially a hill. Taking advantage of the aero positions on the downhill stretches should be a bit more beneficial. And of course the additional hand positions should feel better. I would have thought if I could get the top of the drop bars about level with the seat, like my current bike, the ride position may be somewhat close(but stretched) until I get in the drops. Am I wrong with that assumption?
Everyone is different, and this is moving more to fit.
I'm more torso centric when it comes to setting up my bikes. Once you find a good position for the saddle that meets your needs, whatever that means to each person, you lay out where the bars should be. I have found that the measurement from the back of the saddle, I use the same saddle model on my bikes, to the center of the stem as a good "starting" point, not a finishing point. There should be a Champs-Elysees position. That might be riding no hands, or it can be the tops, or the hoods, or ???, but it is a pretty stress free riding position.
John
Edit added: My most secure position in sketchy sections, is the hoods.