Chalo
100 TW
When I was younger and at my fastest, I used handlebars situated some 8" lower than saddle level. It wasn't just for aerodynamics, either (though that was both an aim and a benefit). Keeping my back flat and my reach long meant being able to pedal really hard without having to pull on the handlebars, because my torso served as a counterpoise. When I turned up the heat, I could cross town at an average speed higher than my current e-bike's top speed.
Many years later, I now usually have my handlebars at least somewhat higher than saddle level. I don't get in a hurry when I'm the only source of power. I generally avoid getting in a hurry at all, because I don't have to and it's undignified.
Using an aggressively aerodynamic upright bike riding position, without making a lot of pedal effort, is probably more uncomfortable than using the same position while pedaling hard. It just doesn't make sense biomechanically.
However, if you ride an e-bike without pedaling, then you may as well ride in the dead-guy-on-a-stretcher, feet-first position. That's the position I use when I'm sleeping and making zero watts of pedal power. It works great for that.
Many years later, I now usually have my handlebars at least somewhat higher than saddle level. I don't get in a hurry when I'm the only source of power. I generally avoid getting in a hurry at all, because I don't have to and it's undignified.
Using an aggressively aerodynamic upright bike riding position, without making a lot of pedal effort, is probably more uncomfortable than using the same position while pedaling hard. It just doesn't make sense biomechanically.
However, if you ride an e-bike without pedaling, then you may as well ride in the dead-guy-on-a-stretcher, feet-first position. That's the position I use when I'm sleeping and making zero watts of pedal power. It works great for that.