morganb wrote:How do they feel in the hands compared to a standard rim brake lever either R9100 or 9000? I am still considering them for my build even though the weight isn't as light as expected as long as they feel decent in the hand.
I haven't put big miles on Shimano hydros, but my experience mirrors what many of the pro reviews have said. Namely, that with Shimano hydro levers, while they may be somewhat ungainly in appearance, the extra material is forward and above the typical hand perch, so the feel in the hand is actually very similar to rim braked models...as long as you don't look down.
P.S. I know some people who like to ride with the palm of their hands atop the mound of the hoods, in a sphinx position, when trying to get aero. I have heard a few argue that the bigger extension of the hydros actually offers more hand positioning options, although the utility of that would also depend on how great a reach you already have to the bars. If you are maxed out, then the additional extension may not be as usable.