so i am wondering if anybody dislikes bridges as much as i do? i am not talking about concrete bridges or wooden bridges or foot bridges or dental bridges.... i am talking about those horrible steel grate bridges. we have one in my city and it is not very long at all but i cringe when ever i ride across it on my 1200c.... i feel like i am riding on ice. i have never dumped it or even gotten close. but as i approach i tense up to where my arms are difficult to move and i get a death grip on the bars up... and this bridge is only about 100ft at the most.... how do you people handle those long steel grate bridges?

 

You are doing exactly the wrong thing. Don't tense up. Loosen your grip. And let your front wheel wiggle a little. It won't hurt anything. Whatever you do, don't look down.
My wife took this picture on the Mackinac Bridge.

 

We have like eight bridges here in Jacksonville. One of them the Mathews bridge used to have steel grating and people complained so much they finally resurfaced it.

I used to try not to get beside someone while going over it because you could look over at them and see the horror in their face.

 

I've crossed the Mackinaw Bridge several times. 5 miles long I think. First time time riding the grate was unnerving. Respect the grate and cross wind, hang loose and enjoy the ride. Your tires and tire pattern can make all the difference in the world on grates and striped pavement. Guys that run that bridge regularly can probably give some good advice.

 

As the song goes: "Hold on loosely but don't let go." Just like riding on rotomilled pavement, let the bike do it's thing and you'll be okay.

 

I stay in the paved lane when I cross the Mackinac. And whoever said don't look down is correct. Staring at the water below can be unnerving.

 

Lots of those steel grate bridges in my area. You get used to it after awhile. The Heritage moves around a little, but even riding over them one handed isn't a problem. Relax a bit.

 

Cool picture!

I've only been over a few short grate bridges and was slightly nervous first couple times. I can't imagine a 5 mile long grate, but I'm comfortable now just hanging slightly loose and cruising along.

 

Ride the length of the Alaskan Highway once. You'll be an expert on steel grate bridges. As the others have said, open your hands a little and let the bike move, keep your speed steady and make any movement gradual.

This will also work on the wet wood planks of the Yukon River bridge on the Dalton Hwy south of the Arctic Circle.

 

I was on a dirt road in Guatemala when I discovered some delightful bridges made up of 4 inch pipes laid side by side, running parallel to the road. That my friends is a terrifying few seconds.

I have been on the at steel grate bridge in Jacksonville mentioned above. Used to freak me out. I knew then to just relax and let it wander but that can be easier said than done as a new rider.