I have a profile design century aero bar that I can't stand because I can't get my thumbs where I want them due to the connection at the top of the hand grip area. I am considering cutting the top inch of the inverted V out to allow my thumbs to rest directly on the cut end of the tubing. I would simply plug them with anything I can find (cork, etc). I have considered the effect this will have on rigidity but my reasoning is that I never really torque on the bars in any direction except straight back. It's not like I would stand up and "dance on the pedals" while holding the ends of the aero bar.

What do you all think, would my chopped aero bar be safe enough for your standard century riding type stuff?