Hi Bill. Drop type handles allow for more positions for your hands so they 
can rest. Commuter bikes don't have drop handles because the distance is not 
expected to be very long. when you are on a bike for a longer period of time, 
keeping the arms in one position renders them very sore. Drop handles allow 
for endless change in position. they also allow you to get in a better 
arodynamic postion so the wind does not blow in your face. In a long ride 
that is important.
Richard
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