Riding on the drops vs. the hoods

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2009-07-10 11:49 AM

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Regular
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New York City
Subject: Riding on the drops vs. the hoods
Been riding/racing for about 5 years now and with no previous cycling background, for whatever reason, from when I first got on the bike, I ride holding the drops almost exclusively. I've always been very comfortable, though I now realize it's quite rare. I occasionally hold the bar on uphills but otherwise I'm always on the drops. I'm working on learning to use aerobars but regardless does anyone think this matters in any other way or know what the differences might be? Thanks.

2009-07-10 11:59 AM
in reply to: #2276360

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Elite
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Spokane, WA
Subject: RE: Riding on the drops vs. the hoods

Consider yourself lucky. Lots of new riders struggle with getting in the drops--often due to "belly issues" making breathing more difficult. You're more aero in the drops, so it's definitely nothing to worry about. Check out the pro riders--they're in the drops a lot.

2009-07-10 11:59 AM
in reply to: #2276360

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Expert
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SF Bay Area
Subject: RE: Riding on the drops vs. the hoods
It doesn't really matter. If you are comfortable there, stay with it. If anything, it's probably a little more aero than riding on the hoods as your upper body is probably a little lower.
2009-07-10 12:24 PM
in reply to: #2276360

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Master
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South of SLC
Subject: RE: Riding on the drops vs. the hoods
x2 on doing what you are comfortable with. Drops are where it is at...

Mike
2009-07-10 1:39 PM
in reply to: #2276360

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Pro
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Twin Cities
Subject: RE: Riding on the drops vs. the hoods
On my roadbike, I ride in the drops 99% of the time. I think it's b/c my first bike was a tri bike, so I learned to ride in the aero position and am just naturally more comfortable there.

I didn't realize it was odd, either, until I joined a cycling group made up of road riders, and we had a drill we had to do to teach peeps to stay in the drops. I was like...??? where else WOULD you ride???
2009-07-11 7:30 AM
in reply to: #2276360

Regular
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Subject: RE: Riding on the drops vs. the hoods
I'm with you. The drops are way easier for me. I think it is because I feel more stable there and I feel like my hands are closer to the gears and breaks .  Aerobars were an easy adjustment.

2009-07-11 7:32 AM
in reply to: #2276360

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Champion
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New York, NY
Subject: RE: Riding on the drops vs. the hoods
I also started with a TT bike so find the drops just a more natural place  - though with all the hills I have been riding lately finding the hoods and center bar attractive too!!!
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