Experiencing discomfort in the wrists and palms during two-up commuting can be attributed to various factors. Here are some potential reasons and preventive measures you can consider:
Incorrect Ergonomics: The ergonomics of your motorcycle may not be optimized for two-up riding, causing discomfort in your wrists and palms. Factors such as handlebar position, height, and grip angle can affect your riding posture. Consider adjusting the handlebars or installing risers to bring them closer or higher, promoting a more relaxed and natural wrist position.
Inadequate Suspension Setup: Insufficient suspension setup can result in a harsh ride, transferring more shocks and vibrations to your wrists and palms. Ensure your motorcycle's suspension is properly adjusted for the weight of both riders. Consult your motorcycle's manual or a professional to optimize the suspension settings for two-up riding, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Gripping the Handlebars Too Tightly: During two-up riding, riders often grip the handlebars tightly, especially when encountering traffic or challenging road conditions. This can lead to increased strain on the wrists and palms. Focus on maintaining a relaxed grip, allowing your wrists to be more flexible and absorb shocks. Practice gripping the handlebars with a lighter touch while maintaining control of the motorcycle.
Insufficient Padding or Grip on the Handlebars: The handlebar grips might lack sufficient padding or grip, leading to discomfort during prolonged rides. Consider upgrading to ergonomic grips with gel padding or additional features to absorb vibrations and reduce stress on your hands.
Lack of Breaks and Stretching: Continuous riding without breaks can contribute to fatigue and discomfort in the wrists and palms. Take frequent breaks during your commute to stretch your wrists, palms, and overall body. Perform simple stretching exercises to improve blood circulation and relieve tension in your hands.
Consider a Throttle Assist Device: Using a throttle assist device, such as a throttle lock or a throttle rocker, can help alleviate stress on your wrists during long stretches of constant throttle application. These devices allow you to maintain speed without constantly gripping the throttle, reducing strain on your wrists.
Gloves with Padding and Support: Invest in high-quality motorcycle gloves with adequate padding and wrist support. Look for gloves specifically designed for long-distance or two-up riding, which provide extra cushioning and ergonomic features to reduce fatigue and discomfort.
If the discomfort persists despite implementing preventive measures, it's advisable to consult a professional motorcycle fitting specialist or your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your riding posture, suggest personalized adjustments, or address any underlying medical concerns that may contribute to the discomfort.