So I'm really trying to get my body to a point that I can ride 8 to 10 hours so I can enjoy my summer, the great northwest and Norther Cali, but I'm experiencing discomfort in my back. I'm 5'7" and can ride around town all day with no problems, but as soon as I hit the freeway I start to tighten up between my shoulder blades. I have a 15.5" Rifle replacement screen and I usually ride with a Scorpion modular and I think it's wind buffet on the top of my head causing it.
So my question is since my back won't touch a back rest (and the handlebars at the same time) and I don't have $800 for a seat with one what are some of the options out there?
Motorcycle kidney belt?
Switch to my half helmet (lighter weight)?
Wedges in my windshield to change the pitch?
So any input from the shorter riders out there that run the freeways would he greatly appreciated.
You know now that you mention it, I usually ride leaning back into my arms. Before it was because I was 300 lbs and had a huge gut, now I think it's laziness and habbit.
Thanks Stryker! I'll work on using my core and legs... I have really short arms and don't think I'd be able to use most back rests.
I used to ride sport bikes and I was one of those that complained about discomfort in the wrists. So when I got this bike I wanted something that wasn't going to put me back in that position.
As you say I wasn't using good riding posture before or now either LOL. Now I have something specific to work on while working my way up to longer runs.
Sounds like you need the best back rest you can get, that would be a woman with big big hooters. lol.
Seriously though posture is real important. You must try to keep your back straight like you would riding a horse. I find myself getting too relaxed on long rides and slouching down and forward because I have short arms also. Within 10 to 15 minutes like that I feel pain in my back and have to adjust my posture. I also strap a pack and pad on my seat to lean on.That helps a lot. Also remember to keep your arms and hands relaxed.
10 hrs is a long time to be on a bike for anyone though. Especially in northern Cali. I know because that's where I live and ride all the time and have done a few 8 to 10 hr rides and it beats you up. In fact my wife after a 10 hr ride fell over in a parking lot just because she was too fatigue to hold the bike up.
Ouch. I don't plan on making a lot of 10 hour days, but I also want to travel. I think I may get one of the bike belts to help with posture till I can afford a seat. Although I'm thinking of getting the Buttcrack Solo, maybe I'll hold off and get a mustang with the back rest.
Ya really you guys realistically 6-7 hrs piloting a bike is a good amount of time. I'm talking actual travel not counting the time spent stopping for gas and bites to eat etc. Anything beyond that starts to be a problem. Unless you are on a larger more comfortable touring bike and doing mostly straight supper slab.
Toby I'm actually talking about 8-10 hour riding "day" including stops. Plus I can only go about 1.5 hours before gassing up. I HATE our tiny tank!
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