Tried some adjustments to make my road bike more comfortable

[nscrbug]

I agree with Kathi...12 years is a long time! Heck, my body goes through subtle changes every year. I feel less flexible now than I did a year ago...my back and neck bother me more now than they did a year ago, etc. Definitely get another fitting done...you'll be glad you did. In regards to doing a long ride with drop bars...I rode 70 miles this morning and the only times I was down in my drops was to get a little more aero to fight off a headwind. I would estimate that out of a 5 hour ride, I probably spent about 30 minutes total in my drops.

[jessmarimba]

I like drops. Heck, I LOVE drops (except that I can't reach the brakes very well). I love that I can move around and stretch my back and shift my weight however I want. They don't work for everyone though.

But I would definitely suggest another fitting...from the best-recommended fitter you can find. Maybe you need wider bars or less of a drop or flared bars or who knows what, but a new fit is a much better option than expensive experiments on your bike with uncertain outcomes.

ETA - some physical therapists can do bike fits that are covered by insurance, if you're really having pain or discomfort. Worth checking out if it is a question of money.