I used to ride risers in the 80's when 66mm wheels and lose trucks gave you wheelbite... at least with Indy's which actually turned. If you rode Ventures, they didnt turn as well so you could get away without using risers. I took off my risers in the late 80's, early 90's when flatground tricks became prevalent and wheels got down to 38mm. Now a days, risers are back in effect, at least 1/8" shockpad style risers...

This is a skateboarding forum right?

Cause on my fixed gear, I ride riser bars and they clear for barspins but the front wheel doesnt... FAIL for Barspinz on a Langster Comp!