I picked up an old set of drop bars without noticing that the bars don't have the groves for the cables to sit in. I'd like to use this with Ergos. Do you guys who run these older bars with Ergos find the cables under the wraps to be a problem?

Just route both cables to the front of the bar. The shift cable goes on top, no higher than the centerline of the bar and the brake cable goes right below it. If positioned correctly, you'll hardly know they are there. Use fiberglass reinforced strapping tape to hold the cables in place.

Use fiberglass reinforced strapping tape to hold the cables in place.

Never heard of it before. Does it work better than electrical tape?

I just set up a sweet no groove handlebar (Reynolds pro round). I routed just like C-40 described. First time with both cables in front and its great. Way better than one on front and one in the back - even with grooves. I think the back routed cable (with or without grooves) creates a ridge/pressure point where your palm rest.

Again Like C-40 I have only used the ¾” strapping tape for many years. It doesn’t give/stretch as much as electrical tape. IMO it gives the brakes a more positive feel. To really secure the cable, I first give a small wrap of the strapping tape just around cables than go around the bar. This will help set the cable more securely in the location you choose. I do this in four more or less equally spaced locations on each side of the bar.

Go with it per C-40s description and you will be happy!

The fiberglass strapping tape is readily available at any Office Max or similar store, or hardware & probably most drug stores. It's absolutely unbreakable, does not stretch, and has a more aggressive adhesive than electrical tape. It's good stuff.

Record 8 on an old Scott Lite Flite "no grooves." I route the brake cables on the front, derailleurs on the back. Gives a nice sort of "pistol grip" on the tops, but not as exagerrated as "wing" bars which I do not like at all.