Originally Posted by mechBgon

I often have to test-ride customers' triathalon/time-trial bikes in a downtown environment. One of their main problems is that the shifters are way out on the tips of the aero bars. Try stopping for an unexpected red light, while also downshifting so you can actually get rolling again when the light changes green again, and you'll see why these setups are my least favorite for riding in traffic.

A road bike with brifters, plus an add-on aero bar... sure. We have some places in my city, such as the approaches to the Maple Street bridge, where I could get a 3-4mph boost from the aero bar at 40-45mph, helping to keep up with traffic better.