Why Do My Hands Go Numb When Cycling?

Cycling is a popular physical activity for many people around the world. It is a great way to stay fit and healthy, and it can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. However, many cyclists often experience a common problem: their hands go numb when cycling. This can be uncomfortable, distracting, and even dangerous, as it can impair your ability to steer and brake effectively. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why your hands may go numb when cycling and what you can do to prevent it.

Understanding Hand Numbness When Cycling

The sensation of numbness in the hands when cycling is a result of compression or pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that run through the hands and wrists. This pressure can occur due to several reasons, including:

1. Cycling Position: One of the primary reasons why cyclists experience hand numbness is due to their cycling position. When you are cycling, you lean forward and put your weight on your hands, which can compress the nerves and blood vessels in your wrists and hands. This can cause your hands to go numb, especially if you maintain this position for an extended period.

2. Grip Pressure: Another reason why cyclists experience hand numbness is due to their grip pressure. When you grip the handlebars tightly, you can compress the nerves and blood vessels in your hands, leading to numbness. This can be more common in beginner cyclists who are still learning how to properly grip the handlebars.

3. Road Vibrations: Road vibrations can also cause hand numbness when cycling. When you are cycling on rough terrain, the vibrations from the road can travel up the handlebars and into your hands, causing them to go numb.

4. Cold Temperatures: Cycling in cold temperatures can also cause hand numbness. When your hands are cold, the blood vessels in your hands constrict, reducing blood flow to your fingers, and leading to numbness.

Now that we understand the common causes of hand numbness when cycling let's discuss some of the ways to prevent it.

Preventing Hand Numbness When Cycling

Adjust Your Cycling Position

One of the easiest ways to prevent hand numbness when cycling is by adjusting your cycling position. When you are cycling, try to distribute your weight evenly between your hands and your seat. You can achieve this by adjusting your handlebars and saddle height, and positioning your hands on the handlebars in a way that feels comfortable for you.

Loosen Your Grip Pressure

Another way to prevent hand numbness when cycling is by loosening your grip pressure on the handlebars. When you are cycling, try to maintain a relaxed grip on the handlebars, and avoid squeezing them tightly. This will help reduce the pressure on your nerves and blood vessels and prevent hand numbness.

Wear Cycling Gloves

Wearing cycling gloves is another way to prevent hand numbness when cycling. Cycling gloves are designed to provide extra padding and support for your hands, which can help reduce the pressure on your nerves and blood vessels. They also provide additional grip, which can help prevent your hands from slipping off the handlebars.

Use Bar Ends

Bar ends are extensions that attach to the end of your handlebars, providing an additional hand position that can help prevent hand numbness. Bar ends can be especially useful for long-distance cyclists, as they provide an alternative hand position, which can help distribute weight and reduce pressure on your nerves and blood vessels.

Take Breaks

Taking breaks during your cycling session can also help prevent hand numbness. If you are cycling for an extended period, try to take a break every 30-45 minutes to stretch and rest your hands. This will help reduce the pressure on your nerves and blood vessels and prevent hand numbness.

Conclusion

Hand numbness when cycling is a common problem that many cyclists face, but it can be prevented. By understanding the causes of hand numbness when cycling and taking preventative measures, you can enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, it is also important to make sure that your bike is properly adjusted and fitted to your body. A bike that is too small or too big can cause additional pressure on your hands and increase the likelihood of hand numbness.

If you continue to experience hand numbness when cycling despite taking preventative measures, it may be a good idea to consult with a medical professional. They can help identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your hand numbness and provide additional guidance on how to prevent it.

Hand numbness when cycling is a common problem that can be prevented. By adjusting your cycling position, loosening your grip pressure, wearing cycling gloves, using bar ends, taking breaks, and making sure your bike is properly fitted, you can enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience. Remember to always prioritize your safety when cycling and take any necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

5 Skills Every Cyclist Should Learn

Cycling is a great way to stay fit, explore the outdoors, and have fun. However, to fully enjoy this activity, there are several skills that every cyclist should learn. In this blog post, we'll cover some essential skills that will help you become a more confident and competent cyclist, including how to use tire levers.

1. Bike maintenance

Keeping your bike in good working order is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride. Learn how to maintain your bike, including cleaning, lubrication, and basic repairs such as fixing a flat tire or adjusting the brakes. Check out The Ultimate Guide To Bike Maintenance.

2. Cycling safety

Knowing how to cycle safely is crucial for your well-being and that of other road users. Learn how to signal, how to ride in traffic, how to navigate different road conditions, and how to use hand signals. Always wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing when cycling.

3. Riding skills

Riding skills are essential for efficient and enjoyable cycling. Learn how to use gears effectively, how to climb hills, how to descend safely, and how to brake correctly. Practice riding in different conditions such as on gravel, in wind, and in rain.

4. Bike handling

Bike handling skills can help you avoid accidents and improve your performance. Learn how to balance your bike, how to ride with no hands, how to corner smoothly, and how to bunny hop over obstacles. These skills will make you a more confident and competent cyclist.

5. How to use tire levers

Flat tires are an inevitable part of cycling, so it's essential to know how to change a tire. To remove a tire from the rim, you need to use tire levers. Here's how to use tire levers:

• Remove the wheel from the bike frame and deflate the tire.
• Insert one end of the tire lever under the bead of the tire and hook it onto a spoke.
• Insert the second tire lever a few inches away from the first one, and use it to lift the bead over the rim.
• Slide the tire lever around the rim to lift the entire bead over the rim.
• Remove the inner tube and replace it with a new one.
• Reinstall the tire onto the rim, starting at the valve and working your way around the rim, pushing the tire bead into the rim.
• Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.

Cycling is a fantastic activity that provides many benefits for both physical and mental health. By learning these essential skills, you'll become a more confident and competent cyclist, allowing you to enjoy all the rewards that cycling has to offer. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there and start pedaling!

Tips and Tricks for a Safe and Fun Bike Ride

Biking is an excellent way to stay fit, save money, and reduce your carbon footprint. Whether you're looking to take up biking for commuting or leisure, it's important to know the basics before you hit the road. In this blog post, we'll cover some essential tips and tricks to help you have a safe and enjoyable biking experience.

Choose the Right Bike

The first step to getting started with biking is to choose the right bike. There are different types of bikes, and each has its purpose. Road bikes, for example, are designed for speed and performance, while mountain bikes are built for off-road adventures. Commuter bikes, on the other hand, are designed for urban riding and have features such as fenders, racks, and lights.

When choosing a bike, consider your intended use. If you're planning on using it for commuting or running errands, a commuter bike may be the best option. If you're looking for a more versatile bike that can handle different terrains, a hybrid bike may be a better choice. Take the time to test ride different bikes to find one that feels comfortable and suits your needs. Read How To Choose The Right Bike For You.

Wear Proper Gear

Biking can be a fun and enjoyable experience, but safety should always be a top priority. Wearing the proper gear can help protect you in case of an accident. Here are some essential pieces of biking gear:

• Helmet: A helmet is essential when riding a bike. You should always wear a bike helmet when riding. It can protect your head in case of a fall or collision. Make sure your helmet fits properly and is adjusted correctly. It should sit level on your head and cover your forehead. It's also important to replace your helmet if it has been involved in a crash or is more than five years old.
• Reflective clothing: Wear reflective clothing when biking, especially if you're riding at night. This will make you more visible to other road users, including drivers. Consider wearing a reflective vest or jacket, and add reflective tape to your bike and helmet.
• Gloves: Gloves can help protect your hands from the elements and provide a better grip on your handlebars. They can also prevent blisters and numbness on long rides.
• Eye protection: Wear sunglasses or clear lenses to protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and bugs. They can also improve your vision and help you see more clearly in different lighting conditions.
• Bike Lights: Having lights on the front and rear of your bike will help you to both see and be seen. Check out The Best Bike Lights For Safe Night Riding.

Know the Rules of the Road

Bikes are considered vehicles and are subject to the same traffic laws as cars. It's essential to know the rules of the road and follow them when riding a bike. Here are some essential rules to keep in mind:

• Use hand signals: Use hand signals to indicate your turns and stops. This will help other road users know your intentions.
• Ride with traffic: Always ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic. This will help prevent accidents and make you more visible to drivers.
• Obey traffic signals: Stop at stop signs and red lights. This will help prevent accidents and keep you safe.
• Stay visible: Use lights and reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to other road users, especially at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and road conditions. Stay alert and anticipate potential hazards.

Practice Basic Bike Handling Skills

Before you hit the road, it's important to practice basic bike handling skills. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable on your bike. Here are some essential skills to practice:

• Starting and stopping: Practice starting and stopping your bike, including using hand signals to indicate your stops.
• Turning: Practice turning your bike, including making both left and right turns. Use hand signals to indicate your turns.
• Braking: Practice using your brakes to slow down and stop your bike. Get a feel for how much pressure you need to apply to your brakes to slow down or stop.
• Shifting gears: If your bike has gears, practice shifting up and down to get a feel for how they work. Read 5 Things Beginning Cyclists Need To Know About Shifting Gears.
• Plan Your Route

Before you head out on your bike, plan your route. This will help you avoid busy roads and dangerous intersections. Look for bike-friendly routes, such as bike lanes and paths, and use online mapping tools to plan your route in advance. Be aware of road conditions and potential hazards, such as construction zones or steep hills.

Stay Hydrated and Fueled

Biking can be a physically demanding activity, especially if you're riding for long distances or uphill. It's important to stay hydrated and fueled to maintain your energy levels. Bring a water bottle with you on your ride and take regular breaks to drink water. Consider bringing snacks, such as energy bars or fruit, to keep your energy levels up.

Take Care of Your Bike

Taking care of your bike is essential to ensure that it stays in good condition and performs well. Here are some basic maintenance tasks to keep in mind:

• Check your tire pressure: Make sure your tires are inflated to the correct pressure. This will help prevent flats and improve your bike's performance. Investing in one of the best bicycle floor pumps will make your cycling life happier.
• Clean your bike: Regularly clean your bike to remove dirt and grime. This will help prevent rust and prolong the life of your bike.
• Check your brakes: Make sure your brakes are working properly and adjust them if necessary. This will help you stop quickly and safely.

Biking is a fun and healthy activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. By following these tips and tricks, you can have a safe and enjoyable biking experience. Remember to wear the proper gear, know the rules of the road, practice basic bike handling skills, plan your route, stay hydrated and fueled, and take care of your bike.

How to Select Bike Lights

Bike lights are an essential piece of equipment for any cyclist, whether you're commuting to work, heading out on a night ride, or simply want to be seen by drivers on the road. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know what to look for when selecting bike lights. In this blog post, we'll explore the various types of bike lights, how to choose the right bike lights for your needs, and some key features to consider.

Types of Bike Lights

There are two main types of bike lights: headlights (front lights) and taillights (rear lights). Some lights come as a set, while others can be purchased individually. Front lights are designed to illuminate the path ahead of you, while rear lights are intended to make you visible to drivers and other cyclists.

Headlights:

Headlights range from small, basic lights that provide a limited beam to powerful, high-performance lights that can illuminate an entire road or trail. When choosing a front light, consider the type of riding you'll be doing and how much illumination you'll need. For commuting in urban areas with streetlights, a lower-powered light may be sufficient. For mountain biking or riding on unlit roads, a brighter, more powerful light is necessary. Some lights have adjustable beams, so you can switch between wide and narrow beams depending on your needs.

Taillights:

Taillights are typically smaller and less powerful than headlights, but they play a critical role in making you visible to drivers. Some taillights are designed to be mounted on your bike's seat post, while others can be clipped onto your backpack or clothing. Many taillights have a flashing mode, which can help increase visibility in low-light conditions.

How to Choose the Right Bike Lights

When selecting bike lights, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Brightness: The brightness of a bike light is measured in lumens. Higher lumens mean more brightness, but also higher battery consumption. Consider the amount of illumination you need for your riding conditions.

2. Battery Life: Battery life is an important factor to consider when selecting bike lights. The last thing you want is for your light to die mid-ride. Be sure to choose lights with a battery life that meets your needs. Some lights come with a battery life indicator to let you know when it's time to recharge.

3. Mounting Options: Look for lights that are easy to mount and remove from your bike. Some lights come with a variety of mounting options, such as straps, clips, or brackets. Make sure the mounting system is secure and won't shift or fall off during your ride.

4. Waterproofing: Consider the weather conditions you'll be riding in and choose lights that are waterproof or at least water-resistant. This will ensure that your lights continue to function in rainy or wet conditions.

5. Cost: Bike lights come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Determine your budget and choose lights that provide the features you need within your price range.

Selecting the best bike lights for night time riding can make a significant difference in your safety and enjoyment while riding. By considering factors such as brightness, battery life, mounting options, waterproofing, and cost, you can find lights that meet your needs and enhance your riding experience. Whether you're a commuter, recreational cyclist, or competitive rider, there's a set of bike lights out there that's right for you.

Why You Should Run Your Bike Tubeless

If you're an avid cyclist, you're probably always looking for ways to improve your ride. One thing you might not have considered yet is going tubeless. While traditional inner tubes have been the standard for decades, tubeless tires have been gaining in popularity for a few good reasons. In this blog post, we'll explore why you should run your bike tubeless.

Reduced Flat Tires

One of the biggest advantages of running tubeless is the reduced risk of flat tires. Since there is no inner tube, there is no tube to puncture. Tubeless tires are filled with sealant, which can seal small punctures before they cause a flat. Even larger punctures can be temporarily sealed by the sealant, giving you enough time to get to safety.

Better Traction

Tubeless tires also offer better traction on the trail or road. With traditional inner tubes, the tire pressure needs to be high enough to prevent pinch flats, which can cause a harsh ride and reduced traction. With tubeless, you can run lower tire pressures, which allows the tire to better conform to the terrain, providing better traction and a smoother ride.

Improved Performance

Another benefit of tubeless tires is improved performance. The lack of an inner tube reduces rolling resistance, which means less effort is needed to maintain speed. This can be especially beneficial for road cyclists who want to go faster and farther with less effort.

Weight Savings

Tubeless tires are also lighter than traditional tires with inner tubes. The removal of the inner tube and associated hardware can reduce the weight of your bike by up to half a pound or more, which can make a significant difference in your overall speed and agility.

Environmental Benefits

Finally, going tubeless is better for the environment. Inner tubes are made of rubber, which is difficult to recycle. By going tubeless, you'll reduce your use of rubber and reduce waste in landfills.

There are many good reasons to run your bike tubeless. With reduced flat tires, better traction, improved performance, weight savings, and environmental benefits, it's a no-brainer. Give it a try and see how it improves your ride!