Originally Posted by
pdlamb
My Reason #1: Leaning with the upper body around 45 degrees from vertical is comfortable for me. Sitting straight up gets old fast.
Reason #2: Leaning forward puts more weight on the front, so if I'm riding in a cross wind I'm more stable than I would be sitting straight up.
Reason #3: It's a lot easier for me to get down into the drops when there's a headwind.
YMMV, of course.
Reason #4 sitting bolt upright means any road shock from bumps or vibration goes right up the spine.
I for one do not find an upright posture comfortable for long rides or any riding really. Riders can choose what works for them. Some choose a more upright posture and are happy. I have met folks doing long tours that way. The majority were europeans.