The answer is simple: aerodynamics. Being so tall, van Schip needs every advantage he can get. Other pros also use relatively narrow bars: 40 and 42 cm are the norm. That got me thinking about the advantages of narrow handlebars.

Are 40cm handlebars too narrow?

In reality, whether a handlebar feels wide or narrow will depend on the characteristics of any given cyclist, to a degree. A 40cm handlebar, for example, might feel relatively wide to someone with narrow shoulders, but could also feel relatively narrow to a rider with broad shoulders.

Can handlebars be too wide?

The opposite position (elbows up, shoulders shrugged), often caused by a handlebar that's too wide for the rider, is less-than-optimal in regard to muscle activation and can heighten the risk of injury to the shoulder joint.