Swapping handlebars---tougher than it looks?

[KathiCville]

Thanks for the additional tips! At some point I probably will want to switch out the flat bar. At the moment, a big part of my problem with comfort on the bike is that I have pitiful upper body strength, combined with computer-related shoulder/arm issues. I'm working on the strength problem (weights, push-ups), but it won't happen overnight. So, for now, sitting more upright seems to be the ticket.........

The hand numbness problem is actually the *most* annoying aspect of longish rides. I think the lack of general upper body strength has me leaning on the handlebar more than I should. By the time I get to just 10 miles, I'm having to shake out my hands constantly. And by 20, I sometimes get so numb that I can barely change gears! I never had that problem when I used to ride years ago. I did 30-40-50 mile rides without noticing my hands at all. Then, I had the old-fashioned black/gray foam padding/grips on the bars. So, my thinking is: get rid of the Ergo grips, which don't help, add some real estate so I can move my hands around more, and add some of the simple foam padding. Not stylish, but hey, it worked years ago for me. I can always tinker more if it doesn't do the trick now.

[Zen]

Kathi- I think what you perceive as lack of upper body strength is actually lack of core strength. If you're putting too much weight on your handlebars your core isn't holding you upright.

Upper body strength comes from the core. think of your arms as springs and your core as either a marshmallow or a rock.
If you push a spring against a marshmallow to launch it, it won't go very far but if you push a spring against a rock to launch it - ZOOM!
Become a rock

[KathiCville]

Zen...You're right...I didn't use the right term! My BF encouraged me a few months ago to start doing 'core' strengthening exercises because he, too, thinks that's where I'm missing strength. Besides the 'holding myself up' issue, I often have a sore lower back now that I'm riding 20+mi. He attributes the soreness to having built up my quads faster than the other parts that need to be strong to counterbalance the new quad strength. (At least I think I've got that right, LOL!)

[elk]

http://www.expertvillage.com/video/2...es-removal.htm

It's for a mtb, but you'll get the idea...plus this guy is too cute...