Another question about old road bike-Handlebars on wrong way

[SydneyFC2010]

Another question,
Got an old road bike given to me and have just noticed after looking at a few pictures that the drop handle bars seem to be pointing the wrong way. I think it may be because the old guy who gave it to me had the handle bars sitting up so he wouldn't have to bend over but when I moved them so they were lower the end of the handlebars point forward. Strangely the brake levers are on the right sides...can it be ridden like this as it seems a real hassle to change it around as I would have to take all the wrapping off the bar to change the brake levers around? Or is it just plain wrong? Sorry for my naivety but I am confused as to why it is set up like this.

[Percrime]

No mate.. going to need a pic to figure out what you are talking about

[SydneyFC2010]

The end of the handlebars are in front of my hand position rather than behind my hand position. (Still doesn't sound very clear I know)

[bigfriendlyvegan]

It was quite a common way to do things back in the day, and yes you can ride them like that. Obree was fond of riding like that to get better support for an aero profile.

[Bob_TAS]

I'm sure your local bike shop can help you. $50-60 for tape and labour, problem solved.

[SydneyFC2010]

It was quite a common way to do things back in the day, and yes you can ride them like that. Obree was fond of riding like that to get better support for an aero profile.

Thanks that really puts my mind at rest. I was worried that it would be dangerous but I have found it quite comfortable and the aero profile is better I think as I am quite tall and stretching forward does lower me on the bike. Also the way I have it set up means when riding up hill I can exert quite a bit of pull on the bike handlebar.

[Percrime]

Oh upside down and forward? Mate if you fit on the bike its fine. Way way way safer than aero bars.

[familyguy]

Sounds like your classic "DUI-position". Pics help.

Jim

[SydneyFC2010]

So to refine my description they are drop handlebars positioned to resemble bull horn handlebars...maybe the old owner was into riding pursuit?

[foo on patrol]

So to refine my description they are drop handlebars positioned to resemble bull horn handlebars...maybe the old owner was into riding pursuit?

Umm no, this was a common way to ride the bikes back in the 50/60s.

Foo

[SydneyFC2010]

So to refine my description they are drop handlebars positioned to resemble bull horn handlebars...maybe the old owner was into riding pursuit?

Umm no, this was a common way to ride the bikes back in the 50/60s.

Foo

Thanks...very interesting. So I've got a retro look