Why do I lose so much power/speed in an aggressive position? I've heard many cyclist say they can go faster (and are more comfortable) with a large bar drop.

If my bar is more than 5cm below the saddle (even by 5mm) -- or if I increase the reach -- my power drops at least 20% (3-4 MPH slower up a 10% grade).  Is this because my torso is 10cm+ shorter-than-normal compared to my legs?  Or, can it be because my hips are large for a guy?  (Isn't a large pelvis/hips one of the reasons that woman tend to need a more upright position?)

Could it be that the saddle position isn't ideal?  (If I lower or move the saddle rearward from my current position  -- about KOPS &amp; HOP -- the opposite occurs:  I'm slower when upright, then gain power as I force myself into a long, low position.  But, comparing the 2, the more upright, higher/forward saddle is noticeably faster then the aggressive, lower/rearward saddle.)

Is it simply a matter of "getting used to" a lower position?  (If I lower the bar 5cm, and just continue riding that way, will I eventually be able to put out the same power I did while more upright?)

I've had SIX bike fittings done over the years, every one making me LESS comfortable and SLOWER, so there's no way I'm spending more money on that.  (Every fit was completely different.  One had the bar 52cm from the saddle, another set it at 59cm!  One had the saddle 6cm behind BB, another had it 12cm back!)

Since I live and ride in the mountains -- I live 600 ft up the side of one! I'm MUCH more interested in power/efficiency than I am in getting aero (if I need to be more upright to climb as fast as possible, so be it -- but it would be nice to be reasonable aero -- lots of descents, too! -- if I could do so without the power loss.
I've heard many cyclist say they can go faster (and are more comfortable) with a large bar drop.


I think this initial assumption is somewhat faulty. Most riders will find they are less comfortable and can make less power in a forward, aggressive position. I certainly find that to be the case myself. (I'm a reasonably fit rider who can hang with the A group on local rides.)

You may just need to accept that your anatomy and strength just don't allow for a aggressive riding position. If you are riding in hilly terrain and are concerned with making your max power, set up your bars in a less aggressive position that is comfortable for you and just ride on the hoods. You can get in the drops on descents where max power output is less important compared to getting more aero.