The more I look at it the more I like it too. Is this like a Mark 20 (your 20th version) or something? You could not possibly have done this on your first try...

I'm not Machka, but I am a former triathlete who used aero bars almost exclusively for over a decade. In order to get low, you need to have the handlebars lower than the seat by at least a few inches, and generally you want the handlebars further forward (i.e., longer stem or a time trial frame) than usual. Both of these modifications allow you to stretch out over the frame and keep your back low to reduce the frontal profile into the wind. Of course, these modifications probably won't be pleasant on a touring setup where you generally want to sit even more upright than on a road bike. Putting areo bars on a regular touring setup will still have some areo advantage, but you're going to be much more hunched over the bike and will be unable to "get and stay low."

Hey Tom could you show more detail of the handlebar bag mounts? I'm touring on a LHT and would like to have a go with aerobars, but I also need my handlebar bag. I recently experienced a ultra-tough headwind while on tour, I ended up resting my forearms on the brake hoods and wrapping my hands gently around my handlebar bag. It worked, I gained at least 2 mph with this setup and punched through the wind much better, but it felt like a much riskier position than when using aerobars. I have a couple of sets of aerobars on some of my other road bikes and have used them extensively in the past. After my wicked headwind experience I started thinking about my LHT and aerobars but until I saw your post I thought the bar bag was a show stopper.

I meant for the stoker, running a standard 28.5" cockpit. Single and captain's position is no problem.

Hi Gus,

Here are a few pictures of the modified mount and arm rest extensions when they were on my previous bike:











Tom