Maryland Roger
05-16-2010, 11:11 AM
There are a few things that can make a long ride less enjoyable. Some include heavy traffic, rain, speed traps, an uncomfortable saddle, a bad lunch, and a wrist cramp. This article focuses on alleviating the dreaded wrist cramp.
Over the years, I've experimented with ways to maintain cruising speed safely while riding long distances. There are many options available. Some expensive, some not. Some safe, some unsafe. Probably the most expensive options are the electronically-controlled cruise control devices.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/513DW8J8TPL._SS500_.jpgThese can range in price from a couple hundred bucks to $1k or more, depending on preferences and the type of motorcycle you own. The installation can range from moderately challenging to intensely technical and time consuming depending on your level of mechanical prowess. If money isn't an issue and you can take your bike apart and put it back together blindfolded, research and reviews still indicate mixed results on many of these devices even when installed properly.
Another cruise control option is the VistaCruise throttle lock. A compact cruise control designed to fit between the grip and the throttle housing. Made of glass filled Zytel nylon for years of service. It costs about $25. Installation is relatively easy. However, many riders have to modify this product to get it to work with their specific configurations.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41j56MyxT4L._SL500_AA280_.jpg
At the bottom end of the price scale is a little rubber O-ring (Part# 8M4991 CAT)made by Caterpillar as a replacement part for construction equipment.
http://www.triumphrat.net/photogallery/d/65046-2/aac.jpgThis $1.92 device simply slips over the bar end weight and is rolled into the gap between the bar end and throttle grip to engage cruise control. Effective, but having to roll it into position, remember to manually return the throttle when slowing down, and dig it out of the gap when done using it makes it not suitable for everyone. After extended use it stretches and weathers to the point of becoming less effective. And, unfortunately, one size does not fit all in this case.
A very smart option is a funny shaped plastic device called "The Crampbuster (http://www.crampbuster.com/index.php)".http://www.crampbuster.com/images/gallery/White_CB4.jpghttp://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/411JfPEcTIL.jpg
Installation of this device is about as simple as can be. Stretch it out and slip it on. The material it's made out of is flexible just enough for easy installation, yet rigid enough to stay put. The design allows it to be adjustable by turning it in the reverse direction of your throttle. Yet, when adding pressure in the opposite direction it grabs the throttle without slipping. It is one of the safest ways to control your speed because your palm stays on the grip and when you open your hand to relieve your wrist, your fingers are hovering over your front brake. Also, it doesn't interfere at all with normal operation if left on. They're available in a few different shapes, black or chrome styles, and the cost is around $10. I use one that flares slightly toward the bar end weight. As someone who has frequent wrist cramping, I can say this affordable device is an excellent product. It's my favorite cruise control. What's yours?
Over the years, I've experimented with ways to maintain cruising speed safely while riding long distances. There are many options available. Some expensive, some not. Some safe, some unsafe. Probably the most expensive options are the electronically-controlled cruise control devices.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/513DW8J8TPL._SS500_.jpgThese can range in price from a couple hundred bucks to $1k or more, depending on preferences and the type of motorcycle you own. The installation can range from moderately challenging to intensely technical and time consuming depending on your level of mechanical prowess. If money isn't an issue and you can take your bike apart and put it back together blindfolded, research and reviews still indicate mixed results on many of these devices even when installed properly.
Another cruise control option is the VistaCruise throttle lock. A compact cruise control designed to fit between the grip and the throttle housing. Made of glass filled Zytel nylon for years of service. It costs about $25. Installation is relatively easy. However, many riders have to modify this product to get it to work with their specific configurations.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41j56MyxT4L._SL500_AA280_.jpg
At the bottom end of the price scale is a little rubber O-ring (Part# 8M4991 CAT)made by Caterpillar as a replacement part for construction equipment.
http://www.triumphrat.net/photogallery/d/65046-2/aac.jpgThis $1.92 device simply slips over the bar end weight and is rolled into the gap between the bar end and throttle grip to engage cruise control. Effective, but having to roll it into position, remember to manually return the throttle when slowing down, and dig it out of the gap when done using it makes it not suitable for everyone. After extended use it stretches and weathers to the point of becoming less effective. And, unfortunately, one size does not fit all in this case.
A very smart option is a funny shaped plastic device called "The Crampbuster (http://www.crampbuster.com/index.php)".http://www.crampbuster.com/images/gallery/White_CB4.jpghttp://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/411JfPEcTIL.jpg
Installation of this device is about as simple as can be. Stretch it out and slip it on. The material it's made out of is flexible just enough for easy installation, yet rigid enough to stay put. The design allows it to be adjustable by turning it in the reverse direction of your throttle. Yet, when adding pressure in the opposite direction it grabs the throttle without slipping. It is one of the safest ways to control your speed because your palm stays on the grip and when you open your hand to relieve your wrist, your fingers are hovering over your front brake. Also, it doesn't interfere at all with normal operation if left on. They're available in a few different shapes, black or chrome styles, and the cost is around $10. I use one that flares slightly toward the bar end weight. As someone who has frequent wrist cramping, I can say this affordable device is an excellent product. It's my favorite cruise control. What's yours?