You should be able to put weight on your hands and not feel pain. So, the post prior to mine is, dare I say it, going down the wrong track.

It has been known for a long time that flat bars put pressure on the outside heel of the hand. I, too, suffer from this. Remedies include padded gloves and ergon bar grips, but my finding is the only real solution is to try different bars.

I don't think flat bars are design for long road trips. Mountain biking is very dynamic with out of the saddle climbing and technical downhills. That's where flats work.

I am trying to figure what works for me, too, thinking the Nitto Albatross/North Road will be a good option. I just don't use the drops, but I do like hoods. Last but not least I'll try putting some drops on.