Have we overlooked the bashing of "safety levers" on brakes?

As far as "Nerf" bar covering is concerned, depends on the type of riding you do, and individual likes and dislikes. Probably better for recreational/commuting/touring. They other racers would beat you up if you tried to race with those on at the Tour de France. The notched sections are pretty neat...IMHO...I myself would probably use them on the top, flat section of my "for touring" bike and tape the rest of the bars from the brake hoods to the end plugs...using same color cloth tape. Hey, it's your bike...your riding needs.