Typically I go upright bars too but wanted to use these because they are so cool and french, plus the levers encourage being on top anyway. It's French fit for me as the frame is at the large end for me and this would probably get used like my super course three speed. The difference is this bike was definitely set up for sewups. 700c wheels won't remotely allow 35s and fenders. Oddly enough though there is a ton of room for chunky 650b. 42s fit easy. It really is a pretty sporting frame. Top gear will be around 70" or less so climbing river bluffs is easy with 40" or less and yes, the shorter chain stays help with climbing. Still experimenting.