I'm wondering if any one else has an issue w/ cramps located in their upper thighs and/or calfs after riding for a bit. I dont get them too often, and they seem to show up a lot more after a more aggressive take-off [extra foot movement w/ shifting and whatnot]. I keep thinking that perhaps my sitting position is wrong, and possibly Im sitting too far back. Or maybe I'm just a pansy...I usually haveta stretch out the leg every once so often to get rid of it. Any suggestions?

Stretch some more and eat some bananas every week. It might actually help!

Ha. I did a thread about this a long time ago, but yeah i had a hairy experience when riding home after work one day i caught a charly horse in my right hamstring.:shock: I managed to pull over and stretch out for a while but that was scary and painful.
I actually stretch a little before every ride now. Part of my pre ride ritual.:mrgreen:

I've gotten a cramp before. Don't be ashamed.

Might be an age thing. How old are you? Personally I say stretch and keep yourself hydrated. I also schedule plenty of stops in my rides. It's not just a good idea for beating cramps, but helps keep you a little more aware (IMHO) as your blood gets a chance to flow normally without vibrating for a few minutes.

i'm 22.... please dont tell me i've already passed my prime! :shock: I'm in pretty decent shape, as I backpack once every few months. Never thought that I'd haveta stretch out before a ride...

Hmm. At 22 I would think you'd have no issues. Maybe it's a "fit" thing. Try moving around the position of your brake and clutch levers and see if that helps. Also might want to consider a different set of handlebars. Sometimes a slight adjustment to your positioning on the bike can make all the difference.

Well, im pretty sure i got the sizing right [5'10", 170 +/- 10 lbs depending on the holiday season :) ] It does show up more often after I get excited[from a good take-off, or after some twisties] and the andrenaline is pumping... could just be all the aneorobic juices causing it...

It does show up more often after I get excited[from a good take-off, or after some twisties] and the andrenaline is pumping...

Maybe you're squeezing the tank too hard whilst doing all that craziness? :wink:

I've noticed my hands get sore a lot faster when I'm riding in strong winds... because I've got a death grip on the bars. It's subconscious and really not necessary. Try keeping tabs on how you're, uh, gripping the tank/frame/seat and see if you don't have an unintentional Thighmaster happening when you get your lean on.

Maybe you're squeezing the tank too hard whilst doing all that craziness? :wink:

I've noticed my hands get sore a lot faster when I'm riding in strong winds... because I've got a death grip on the bars. It's subconscious and really not necessary. Try keeping tabs on how you're, uh, gripping the tank/frame/seat and see if you don't have an unintentional Thighmaster happening when you get your lean on.

The death grip isn't only not necessary, it could be unsafe. I try to be mindful of it while riding.