aka Chicken Levers

I raced my first 3 seasons without them. I got them this season because I've been working with a skills coach who would like to see me spend more time on the tops (rather than the hoods or the drops). So far I really like them, although I occassionally have to remind myself to ride on the tops.

My theory is that those cross racers who come from a mtb background spend a lot more time on the tops. Those who come from a road background spend more time on the hoods and drops. My coach comes from a mtb background.

I like them and they're definitely useful. I've learned to be more comfortable (and more in control) on the tops during descents. I can be more stable with my hands closer to the stem. I've only done one race with them, so I'm still deciding whether or not they'll stay for a second season.

On thing I've noticed is that my bar isn't ideal for riding on the tops. I got the Salsa Bell Lap, which is a traditional cross bar. It's curved on the transistion from the tops to the hoods, so there's not enough room for me to do my mounts or dismounts comfortably from the tops without turning my wrist in an akward position.