Quote Originally Posted by tygab
I've wondered about this - I actually ride in the drops most of the time and prefer it to the more upright position. Knowing that most people seem to prefer the hands on the brake hoods, I have wondered if it means something needs adjusting, or if it's just a personal preference. Is there any downside to riding this way more?
Part of it is personal preference. But ideally you'd like at least 2 bar positions that you are moderately comfortable in just so you can change positions frequently and avoid hand/arm/shoulder fatigue. If you find yourself riding the drops 80-90% of the time, then you might be better off lowering the bars so that you can go to the drops when you want to be extra low, like during fast descents. This transfers more weight to the front wheel and improves stability. Your preferred riding position may change with time as you get stronger or more used to the bike or more or less flexible. The number to check is the vertical distance between saddle top and handlebar top. Bars about 2 inches below saddle is sort of standard for a rider with moderate flexibility. Racers will put the bars lower, tourers higher. But bars have different drop distances so it can be hard to compare.