I have stock bars on my SGcustom. Previous to this I had a V-star. One thing I have had common on both bikes, is a tendancy for my thumbs to tingle and/or go numb on extended trips. I attribute this to the angle of my wrists as I hold the grips.

I am wondering about getting bars with not quite as much pull-back (flatter), and with risers, to change the angle of my wrists. Maybe won't put as much pressure on that nerve in my hand.

How are higher/flatter riser bars for long trips?

Anybody else done something similar for this reason? Results?

 

I put a set of wild ones 501s on my WG and found it much more comfortable. Try going to a HD dealer that has a large used bike inventory (many modifications) and sit on a bunch of them to get a feel.

 

I had that problem because I've broken my right hand twice and severed the tendon in my right thumb. The problem was most prevalent on my old bike, 78 xs1100 with extreme buckhorn bars. I have yet to experience that problem with both the stock mini-apes and now with full 16" apes. So, in my experience, position of hand/wrist is important to not experiencing that issue.

 

Much better now that I am running 16" apes. i know that to some this seems crazy, I too used to think this, but it is much better now.

 

I get carpel tunnel syndrome in my left hand if I if I put too much pressure when riding a bike. The nerve runs through a groove in the cartilage in the wrist and because the groove is too small it pinches the nerve which becomes inflamed and swells as a result. It's very painful and feels like a toothache in the hand.

I've found that an inch (or even less) of adjustment can make an amazing difference.

Before you buy new bars try sitting on the bike and loosening the clamp bolts. Hold the bar by the grips and lean back pulling the bar towards you. Tighten the bolts in that position and you may find the bars fit you better. That might be enough to relieve the pressure. It's worked for me in the past. Iso grips also work for me.

 

I remember the bars on my brother's Super were at a weird angle at the wrists...probably the reason for your problem.

We both went to drag bars and Duece risers and it's so much better.

Check out the link in my sig for more pics.