The hands play a crucial role in cycling, managing tasks like gripping, steering, and braking. However, they also bear significant pressure, which can lead to painful irritation affecting the nerves, fingers, and hands.
Grip Width Measurement
Secure Grip and Grip Size
The right grip size is crucial. If a grip is too big, it cannot be fully enclosed, which can lead to cramping of the fingers or hand. The perfect fit is crucial for comfort and a secure grip.
That is why we have developed a method for determining the optimal grip size. The grip size is the measurement from the tip of the middle finger to the crook of the thumb. This is exactly how you enclose the grip. Grip sizes differ in diameter, length and shape. Our bicycle grips are available in up to four different sizes, depending on the model.
A round grip may sound comfortable, but it only provides a small contact surface. The pressure is usually extremely high on the outside of the palm. Here runs the ulnar nerve, which supplies the two little fingers. The consequences are pressure pain and numbness on the little finger and ring finger.
The SQlab grip concept: flattened at the top and pulled forward and back so that the surface area is as large as possible, depending on the riding style. This allows the fingers to enclose the grip securely and the pressure on the hand is distributed evenly.
The cause of painful hands and numbness in the index, middle or thumb is an overstretched wrist, which can constrict the carpal tunnel. This “kink” is usually caused by handlebars that are too straight, with too little bend towards the back (backsweep).
The backsweep means that the wrist is less overstretched, the carpal tunnel is no longer constricted and thus the supply to the hand is improved. This minimizes the risk of numb fingers.