Getting used to a road bike

[AndyRM]

I find that a thinly padded glove is far more comfortable than bare skin when on the hoods.

These are very comfortable: http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sp/ro...i-mitts-castelli-aero-race-gloves/castzmit120

Also stop your hands freezing. Even on a warm day, when the first thing hitting the wind is your hands, you want to be protecting them!

 

[SimonJKH]

I like to alternate between the hoods and the tops. Drops are just to really enjoy a fast descend

 

[Easytigers]

I never used to wear gloves until I got 'brushed' by a car. Weirdly the 5 inch cut in my leg didn't hurt as much as taking all of the skin off my palms!!!
Being new to a road bike, I thought that everyone rode on the drops...it certainly seems that way when I'm riding out and about and see people. It was only when I was chatting to our site supervisor (who has raced for many a year), that he said that very few riders ride on the drops all of the time...I was so glad!

 

[mark st1]

I like to spend alot of time in the drops ? im beginning to feel a bit weird now dont know weather its cos ive never owned a bike other than with straight bars ?

I just find it alot more of a comfy riding position using them.