Originally Posted by
zeeway
We may have an apple to oranges situation with definitions, but the other advantage when I switched to the Dutch bars and hand brake levers (instead of brifters) was I was able to brake more effectively. Maybe it was related to a combination of causes specific to me, but I always found braking on a drop bar with brifters to be a bit awkward.
There are plenty of ways to set up drop bar levers such that they are awkward to use, and reach can be an issue. My point is not a general comment on braking effectiveness. I was able to brake effectively with every configuration including Albatross style bars.
My only point is that when you are braking from high speed, upright bars require you to use hand strength to maintain your position as you decelerate since your palm is moving along the bar, not being pushed into it. For low speed biking it really isn’t a concern. That’s why they work so well for city riding.
Otto