Getting comfortable on drop bars

[chris667]

Problem is, getting advice on bike fit over a forum is a bit like someone telling you how to trim a hedge over the phone. There's lots of advice here, and it's all right, but frankly I'd suggest you get someone who knows about bike fit to have a look with you.
I mean to be nice when I suggest this, but if you have a hybrid that's comfortable for distances, it might be better to take it touring this time and leave the new bike at home. There's nothing worse than touring on a bike that hurts you.

 

[Dave5N]

If you have drops, and you can't ride on the drops, the bike is set up wrong for you.

Simples.

 

[Sun Superlight]

Drop bars and comfort?

If you have drops, and you can't ride on the drops, the bike is set up wrong for you.


I've owned dozens of bikes over the last 45 years, and during that time have tried all types of bars and set ups.
Despite the aero advantage, drop bars have never been really comfortable for me, despite having spent a small fortune and many years persevering with different makes. No major discomfort mind, just a vague feeling that I was never fully in control.
Recently I had the chance to try Bullhorn bars (which gave a similar aero position) and realised immediately that these were what I had always been looking for.
We are all built differently, and I'm not convinced that we can all feel right with drops, it being simply a matter of the set up.
However I agree totally with Dave on the importance of it.

 

[craigwend]

Helen if it really does not work out, i'd be more than happy to 'swap' (off a 2000 rockhopper) some Acor X-country (bars) deore 9 speed levers and Tektro Quartz break levers, Ritchey Bar ends & some rubbish specialized grips for your STi's & bars (with some compensation to you), if only we knew somebody good with bikes who could do the mechanics?

 

[AllThatJazz!]

I had this same problem. I went back to the local shop and they tweeked a few things for me . It's much better now.