Right Hand Goes Numb While Riding Motorcycle
Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience, but it can also be physically demanding. One of the most common issues that riders face is numbness in their hands. This can be a serious problem, as it can affect your ability to control the bike and make riding uncomfortable. In this article, we will explore the causes of this issue and provide some remedies to help you avoid it.
Causes of Numbness in the Hands While Riding a Motorcycle
There are several reasons why your right hand may go numb while riding a motorcycle. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Vibration
Motorcycles produce a lot of vibration, which can cause numbness in your hands over time. This is especially true if you are riding a bike with a high-performance engine or if your bike has worn out suspension or handlebars. The vibrations can cause your hands to go numb, making it difficult to grip the handlebars and control the bike.
2. Poor Ergonomics
If your motorcycle is not properly adjusted to fit your body, it can lead to numbness in your hands. Poor ergonomics can cause your wrists to be at an awkward angle, putting pressure on the nerves in your hand. This can cause numbness, tingling, and even pain.
3. Grip Strength
When you are riding a motorcycle, you need to have a strong grip on the handlebars to control the bike. However, if you are gripping the handlebars too tightly, it can cause numbness in your hands. This is because the pressure on your nerves can reduce blood flow to your hands, leading to numbness and tingling.
4. Cold Weather
Riding a motorcycle in cold weather can also cause numbness in your hands. This is because the cold temperature can reduce blood flow to your hands, causing them to go numb. If you are riding in cold weather, it is important to wear gloves that are designed for motorcycle riding to keep your hands warm and protected.
Remedies for Numbness in the Hands While Riding a Motorcycle
If you are experiencing numbness in your hands while riding a motorcycle, there are several remedies that you can try:
1. Adjust Your Grip
If you are gripping the handlebars too tightly, try loosening your grip. This will help to reduce the pressure on your nerves and increase blood flow to your hands. You can also try changing your hand position on the handlebars to relieve pressure on your wrists.
2. Adjust Your Bike
If poor ergonomics are the cause of your numbness, consider adjusting your bike to fit your body better. This may involve adjusting the handlebars, changing the seat or foot pegs, or adding risers to the handlebars.
3. Wear Proper Gear
Wearing proper gear is essential when riding a motorcycle. If you are riding in cold weather, make sure to wear gloves that are designed for motorcycle riding to keep your hands warm and protected. You can also wear gloves that have gel padding or vibration-dampening features to reduce the impact of vibrations on your hands.
4. Take Breaks
If you are planning a long ride, it is important to take breaks to stretch your hands and arms. This will help to increase blood flow to your hands and reduce the risk of numbness and tingling.
5. Install Vibration-Dampening Features
If your bike produces a lot of vibration, consider installing vibration-dampening features such as handlebar weights or foam grips. These can help to reduce the impact of vibrations on your hands and make riding more comfortable.
Conclusion
Numbness in the hands while riding a motorcycle can be a serious problem, but it is also a common one. By understanding the causes of this issue and taking steps to prevent it, you can enjoy a more comfortable and safer ride. Remember to adjust your grip, wear proper gear, take breaks, and consider installing vibration-dampening features to reduce the impact of vibrations on your hands. By doing so, you can enjoy the thrill of riding a motorcycle without the discomfort of numbness in your hands.