Quote Originally Posted by Helene2013 View Post
If I could go back in one of my first posts, I had those installed "after market" on my ex-Kuota.

I never felt in control of it on this bike and was afraid without those road brake levers you find on hybrids, etc. In the end, I found them more dangerous and in the way and learned to use the "usual" equipment. Also, they were in the way for any other things I needed on that bar (like my Polar, my iphone stand, etc.). So they were taken out just as quickly as they were put on the bike.

My LBS had them installed for something like 40$. I don't think I took a pic of it. Bummer!

Would I have them installed again? Nope. Much more annoying than helpful. But sometimes, it is a like a crutch and it worked for me for a few outings. Then I did not feel the need for them and wanted to regain the space on my road handle bar.

I rarely drive in the drops as I don't feel stable enough anyway on my bike. I use drops only on trainer! Not that useful. haha But it makes me look like a pro. haha

Oh yeah, I remember something too. What bugged me most was that they were too close together, so I had even less handling and less room to move my hands around. I still had to stretch my fingers to get there comfortably or keep my hands even closer together. So I had less control.
I think I agree with Helene on almost all her points here... takes up more handlebar space, etc. BUT, when I first got my road bike, they gave me an added feeling of security having them there as I got used to the handling. I often ride with my hands on the top of the bars and felt insecure for a while not having those brakes within easy reach. Plus, in my experience it is easier to grab "too much" brake when you pull on those top tube levers. I rarely ever use them, but haven't bothered to take them off. I also put mine on after market on both my commuter Jamis and my Dolce.

If you don't feel like you can grab your brakes well enough, your bike shop can probably make an adjustment to make it easier for you! I have small and weak hands and they did this for me.