so this isn't meant to in any way put down either, i'm just curious as to why risers are becoming so popular... i road a flat bar for a while, and i don't see the difference between a riser and a flat bar... i would think you could get the same effect either way by just changing the rise of your stem. am i missing something?

More than anything its the look IMO. Flats look ugly tome.

I ride risers for a few reasons. Aesthetics are a big part of it, but there are some other reasons.
Risers sweep back, and they usually sweep upwards too. I find they put my hands in a more comfortable position.
I run threadless so the Rivendell jack that stem skyhigh mentality just isn't an option.
High rise stems are freakin ugly.

I do run flat bars on my 29er because risers would put me way to far upright.

Flats FTW. Stiffer, lighter, 10% faster, yo.

carbon flats with ergonomic mountin bike bar end grips (the cane creek dealys) best thing since sliced beer

whatever you choose, CHOOSE BRAKES...CHOOSE LIFE!!!

Carbon flat bars with carbon bar ends on my XC bike. Quickest setup you can buy.

risers with a drop stem looks cool

Thats the main reason. Any sweep you can get with risers you can also find on flats. And if you say you want your bars higher, you can just raise your stem/put on a ***** stem.

Risers provide a more comfy place for your girlfriend/wife to sit when you're trailing her on your handlebars. Unless, of course, she has a huge ass. Then you need a flat bar.

In that case, flip 'n' chop for more hip huggability!

you can't clamp a brake on those!!

TT-style reverse lever!