Handlebars

Did they die cos of bullhorns or aero bars?

No because they weren't permitted. The poor rider was KO in the road when I passed. There were other bikes involved. It was probably a touch of wheels, it usually is.

I really don't see how you can't have a minimum bar width rule and a no aero bar rule if you are worried about narrow aero bars.

Because it's easier for people to understand and apply a simple rule. And this is a simple rule.

Maybe having fewer riders, making extra effort to discourage the people treating it like a competitve race, minimum compentency requirements for riders, or making it shorter would all have much greater safety benefits.

It's a massive event and very accessible. Everyone from pro teams to your mum rides this and they stagger groups depart time over 12 hours to make is as safe as possible. The size and mix is part of the event's character.

Or not allowing fixed and freewheel riders to mix. Or compelling everyone to have two brakes even if fixed.

Nobody wants this. It's not an issue.

Honestly, I'm not looking for an argument. They can do what they want, and other things being equal everyone on drops (are risers allowed?) probably makes it safer. Just seems a touch OTT for me.

Uh huh. Yes they are. Yes they can. That's Sweden for you.

Maybe its just cost I tend to see things quite black and white. If you wanna ride on the track or race competitively then I understand that there needs to be a load of rules. Otherwise just get on your bike, pedal and have fun. I don't really get the bit in the middle full stop.

When you organise events you realise unfortunately there are safety requirements that need to be signed up to. That's just the way it is.