I bought my trek 1200 roadie from a guy at work. It already had the tribars on it. Took a little getting used to, but I absolutely love them now. And wouldn't have a commuter without them. Very comfy and great for resting back and wrists.

Of course my 12 mile ride to work is at 5 AM when there is extremely light traffic. The ride home I take a 3 mile longer more rural route.

So, if you are commuting to lower manhattan, don't bother. It you are riding lightly traveled roads with little need off shifting and breaking, then go for it.