I've used gel pads and they help marginally I think. I'm likely to use them on a long distance or a rough road machine.
If your wife likes the tops better, why not install interrupter brake levers? I am rebuilding a '73 Schwinn Sports Tourer and it is designed to be ridden on the tops with extension levers and stem shifters. It's not a bad set up.
Last edited by bikemig; 05-17-21 at 10:10 AM.