Originally Posted by delbiker1

I can state the reasons for me to stop riding traditionally shaped drop bars are physical: chronic spinal and shoulder issues. I can ride those types of handlebars, but not for long, or without a combination of pain in neck and shoulders; and numbness in hands and fingers. Going to shallow drop, short reach and flare allows me to ride in comfort for long rides. I have never been a fan of the aesthetics of really long steer tubes and/or steep rising stems, but I have gotten over that bias. My Lemond Tourmalet is the most drastic of those. I recently installed a new fork with a longer steer tube and clearance for bigger 700c tires. I love riding this bike but was not using it much. Yesterday, I put 30 comfortable miles on it, no neck pain and no numbness, it's like connecting with an old friend that you are immediately comfortable with. IMO, the less than sporting look is a small sacrifice for comfort.

Just struck me, I have another reason, prostate bladder issues, no need for details.

Angle makes bars look higher than they actually are.