Aerobar

[wnyrider]

I have a one piece aerobar on my multi sport bike. I posted this pic before, but will do so again to show you here:
Attachment 9570
I have since made some adjustments, such as swapping out that stem for an adjustable one to raise the height to meet my comfort level. I've been reading up about adding a brake such as this:
http://www.hedcycling.com/aerobars/t...rake_lever.asp
There are pros and cons, but I am considering it.
It is now possible for me to go on longer rides with pleasure. I look forward to it. Much, much less painful now. Not close to doing 100 mile stretches though! I don't do races or ride in large groups either. I ride just for the pure joy of it. I'm glad I have the aerobar now. I had to practice for a while to get used to the handling of the bike when in the aero position. I still get a panicky feeling when a big truck roars by and I feel caught up in the back draft. But, I don't like when that happens anyways. Most of my rides sound like yours Lakerider and the aerobar is working out very well indeed!

[Lakerider]

Thanks wnyrider! I'm going to check with some bike shops and probably get one soon.

[HillSlugger]

I don't like the one piece aerobars. With the two-piece, separate bars you can adjust them for width, length, and angle. That makes it easier to get the fit dialed in.

[Miranda]

I'm skimming here, so sorry if this was posted...

I don't like the ones if the arm rests do not flip up outta the way when not in use. I say this cuz if you need a smaller sized width handlebar, and the aerobar takes up most of that room, you feel cramped trying to ride on the hoods etc. Or you just want to use the tops to climb... the aerobar armrest will be in the way if they don't flip up.

Profile Design makes a couple varieties with something called a "Z bracket". That is the piece that flips up the armrests.

Also... if you can not, meaning your event / club / etc. prohibits, ride with your aerobars... don't train with them. Or get used to using them exclusively.

I know you said you ride alone. But, just make sure your body remembers what it feels like to ride without the aerobar too. Muscle memory can be a powerful thing. Otherwise if you get some ride buddies, etc.... you might have a challenge going backwards.

FWIW.

EDIT: This is what I chose, though not mounted on my new bike to date. Some of which for the reasons I note above. Nice feature to cheat the wind a bit. They are called the "Split Second".
http://www.profile-design.com/profil...it-second.html