Originally Posted by dr_lha (Post 18557834)

OK fair enough. I would argue though (and this thread is called "straight vs drop bars") that even without utilizing the drops, drop bars give more hand positions than straight bars. I suppose if you add bar ends to straight bars, that adds a single extra position. On a long ride, I struggle to see the benefit of not giving myself the option to occasionally ride in the drops, especially living near Appalachian ridges where the majority of the riding is long climbs followed by fast descents.

FYI I'm from Europe, albeit the UK part which may not be Europe for much longer(!). Drop bars in the UK are far the most prevalent on touring bikes. "The Continent" may be different.

Originally Posted by kickstart (Post 18557902)

Yes, I'll agree drop bars are 100% better....for me....than straight bars in a either or situation. I simply find that they don't possess a natural superiority, and have shortcomings just looking me all other types of bars depending on ones riding style.

Originally Posted by kickstart (Post 18555618)

I have a drop bar road bike, and the issue isn't so much comfort, but rather the face down riding position forced by positions other than the top, that keeps one focused on the road.

Originally Posted by Joepasta (Post 18556916)

Thanks for the input. Next question is what are the different type bars? Wood chipper, trekking, north road bars?