Wouldn't a high rise clip on put things darn near where clubman's are?
You are right, River. And there's a number of guys on here that have used them for that very reason, as well as tank clearance. And they still look great.
Two things to factor in when considering why clip-ons are uncomfy for us old coots (well, some of us old coots anyway, didn't mean to drag Retro down with us, cuz he's still young enough at heart to take the pain) is the position and length.
Often overlooked in understanding why clips are uncomfy is the
rigidity of the bar compared to full length handlebars. Most full length bars are far more flexible end-to-end and the vibration and other variables is absorbed or at least dissipated across their length. Not so with clip-ons. You get about 15-18" of strong tubing and that's it. It's like the structural effects of a cantilevered design. Shorter is much stronger, longer is more deflection.
Of course position and riders posture/weight is obvious. But that little tidbit is oft misunderstood. Even upswept clips are still harder to hold
for me due to the ortho injury and nerve damage. Has to do with transmitted shock thru the bars I speculate.
Just to dispel any burgeoning rumors about me being a sissy, and a cupcake. I've been married over 20 years and raised more than 4 kids. I
can take pain. Just not while riding