Sub-$100 upgrade
 

Already getting the itch to do something to the new bike (can't help it, hate to own stock stuff...like to customize). Anyway, I was thinking about getting a new handlebar, one where the top tube is flat. Just looks more comfortable as there is more area to rest your hands. Don't need a $200 carbon bar, just thinking about something like this:

http://www.bikebling.com/FSA-Wing-Pr...pact-bar-b.htm

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes..._400002_400213

Try some different bars to figure out what width, drop, reach and bend you want. From there you can arbitrarily pick what bar shape you would like.

do people still ride bikes? or do they just buy and buy and buy for the sake of buying?

The latter.

Add the 3T Ergonova Pro to your list; it is one of my favorite handlebars and many others seem to like it, too.

since your bike is blue (i think) you should see if you can find any 3T ergonova team bars left in the garmin edition. they are normally around $250 but ive seen those go for pretty cheap over the last few months.

edit here is a link
http://www.realcyclist.com/3t-drop-handlebars

there are a few other options. the ergosums are also nice but dont have the egg shape like the novas. the rotundo bars are more of a classic bend

for the money though the pro line of these bars are hard to beat. the only difference is that they are alu instead of carbon and a little heavier.

What's wrong with wanting to make my bike MY bike? I work hard, have a very good job, and can afford to customize a little. I don't want my bike to look too stock. And as you can see below, I'm getting in some pretty good miles as well.

If you are changing from drop bars to flat bars you will also need to change the shifters, which can get a little expensive.

I was considering the Easton and Ergonova as well, most likely the Easton because of cost. Been wanting to change the bar tape and prefer a shorter drop so kill 2 birds with one stone.
Some other posters like the flatter upper part but I imagine I will, too. When I'm on the top I like to rest my palms and relax, and the flatter bar seems to help with that.
Plus they're "aero." We all know "aero" stuff is cool!

I do both.

Do you scoff at rich folks buying nice things?

But you asked about an upgrade for <$100. Usually this is related to performance and respondents are trying various ways to tell you that it's a waste of money. OTOH, since all you want is to customize, buy what you want. Asking advice for that is like seeking advice on your favorite color. ;)

Wha? "Upgrade," and "performance," have many meanings. A handlebar that is more comfortable is certainly an upgrade.

I thought bikes were works of art, am I really supposed to be riding it? Couldn't that get it dirty???

Have some fun. Low ball $300 bars on ebay until you get one.

Let's not kid ourselves, getting a sub $100 popular handlebar is "customizing"? How about this, if you really wanna make it yours, save your here-and-there "sub $100" upgrades and custom paint the bike.
You wanna buy it because you wanna buy it, that's all.

I distinctly remember a thread about keeping your tires clean...

I'm just happy to keep my tires in one piece. :o

Sounds like he's wanting to upgrade for a more specific reason than "just buying."

What' YOUR idea of customizing, then. Spending more than anyone else for stuff nobody else has? Customizing and getting popular/plain items are not related.
OP wants to buy and is asking for opinions on what might be good. If you take offense to that then well...

http://www.universalcycles.com/image...arge/24101.jpg

Dimension Flat Top Shallow Bar - Great $35 alternative to the FSA's, 3T's etc...

I have a used FSA Wing Pro Alloy handlebar size 44 cm for sale right now for $40.00, if you're interested.

I don't get the controversy. I am thinking about getting new handlebars. That is all. I would like to try bars with the flat tops because sometimes the palms of my hands hurt on a long ride from being on the hoods. Was thinking a nice wide top would be a good place to rest for a while. If you are offended, then please don't post. If you have these "aero" bars and like them or don't like them I would like to know before I decide to buy. What I don't have is the $$$ to go through several bars to figure out which is best. What just hoping to get some helpful reviews on this style of bar.

http://img216.imageshack.us/img216/3174/img1822dz2.jpg
By nachomanh at 2008-03-30
This is what the FSA Wing Pro look like.

Those bars look rounded at the hooks. I tried some once that the flat section extended a little past the bend. The edge dug into my palm when I stood to climb.

Look at the 3T Ergonova alloy bars. They're about $80 and worth every penny. As new saddle is also a good sub $100 pick up, depending of course on your choices.

probably the best performance upgrade I'd suggest for your money rather than bars would be tires, but it's your money and if you don't like the bars, put it there. Whatever makes you happy and more likely to ride and all that...