SCH, you correct about the TDF bar angles and brake lever position. Its important that everyday cyclists dont go out and try to imitate the TDF cyclists. Those guys are 'repositioning' thier bar setups to compensate for riding to small of a bike. It does seem like it would make climbing easier, doesnt it?

I remember back in the '80's when Greg LeMond was riding with very laid back seat angles and a seat way back on the rails. Every Cat4 rider coming into our store wanted that setup. We're not all runnin' around with slicks on our car cuz lil E runs em on his stocker are we?