I also have had sore, cracking thumbs that ache but, like everyone says, it does get better with more time on the bike. I also ride a Specialized and one thing that did help me was that my lbs put a $15.00 shim in the brake lever so I wouldn't have to stretch my hand out so far to hit the brakes. The shim shortens the reach, bringing the lever in closer. Hope that makes sense but your lbs should know about these.