Re:Which cyclist hill descent position is superior? (2017)
by loeg on Sunday June 14, 2020 @11:24AM
(#23518336)
Yes. Getting the upper body tucked narrowly is superior to basically everything here.
However, full-size tri/TT bars aren't even allowed in triathlons where drafting is permitted. Only recently have reduced-length aerobars been permitted in drafting-allowed races (aerobars no longer than the drop bars/hoods).
Full Tri/TT bars aren't allowed in UCI races because they poke out in front of the bars and hoods; there is some concern they could stab someone in a crash. UCI races allow drafting. The shorter aero bars are relatively new and there is certainly some resistance to change in UCI. I don't know how long it has been since UCI reduced the minimum weight limit but it's been 6.8 kg for quite some time.
Additionally, tri/tt bars reduce your steering stability, which is potentially very bad on a fast descent like this. Usually tri/TT bars do not have brakes on the extension arms — neither for clip-on aero bars for road bikes, nor dedicated tri/TT handlebars.
Anyway, I have aero bars myself and ride in that position going fast on flats and modest descents. But I go back to a wide, near-the-brakes position above 30 mph.
However, full-size tri/TT bars aren't even allowed in triathlons where drafting is permitted. Only recently have reduced-length aerobars been permitted in drafting-allowed races (aerobars no longer than the drop bars/hoods).
Full Tri/TT bars aren't allowed in UCI races because they poke out in front of the bars and hoods; there is some concern they could stab someone in a crash. UCI races allow drafting. The shorter aero bars are relatively new and there is certainly some resistance to change in UCI. I don't know how long it has been since UCI reduced the minimum weight limit but it's been 6.8 kg for quite some time.
Additionally, tri/tt bars reduce your steering stability, which is potentially very bad on a fast descent like this. Usually tri/TT bars do not have brakes on the extension arms — neither for clip-on aero bars for road bikes, nor dedicated tri/TT handlebars.
Anyway, I have aero bars myself and ride in that position going fast on flats and modest descents. But I go back to a wide, near-the-brakes position above 30 mph.