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Adjusting elbow pads for Fit

Jonathan BrownJonathan Brown
in General Training Discussions

Hello All,

 So i had a brilliant idea the other day.  Over the last year, i have had issues with a pitched nerve in my shoulder blade.  So what i am thinking is this... Could adjusting my elbow pads on my bike out to widening my shoulders and opening up my back a little relieve my pitched nerve?  Is that sound thought process?  Does it make sense?

 

Jonathan

Comments

  • Al TruscottAl Truscott

    Sure, give it a try. I think wind tunnel studies have shown that there is little to be gained in riding with you elbows any closer together than the width of your chest. The idea is to not have your upper arms sticking out into wind beyond the profile created by your torso. Just for fun, I measured the distance between the widest points of my arms rests (what you;re calling elbow pads?" @ 12".

  • Jonathan BrownJonathan Brown
    @Al, you are right, Arm Rests. It would be funny if i wore elbow pads on the bike though.

    So bad news, and now i need some advice. Since i have Zipp handle bars, there is very little if NO adjustments allowed. The arm rests are as far apart as they can be. So do i: A) just deal with it. B) get a new set of handle bars and sell my Zipps. C) Any other thoughts
  • Brad MarcusBrad Marcus
    @Jonathan- if suggest before buying new ones, speaking with a good bike fitter and explaining the shoulder issue. Maybe they can pinpoint the problem and confirm or rule out your theory before spending the $$.
  • John WithrowJohn Withrow
    Jonathan- I use these on my 3T bars. http://www.trisports.com/zipp-vuka-pad-wing-extension.html
    They also used to work on my HED bars on my old bike as well... I would guess that they 'might' work for you. I feel comfort on your back is more important for the small aero advantage of being tighter. I have broad shoulders and without these extenders it really stretches my back/shoulders to be in aero...
  • Jonathan BrownJonathan Brown
    @John, Thank you for the suggestion. I have purchased via Amazon. and i should receive by next week (not available on Prime).
    @Brad, I tend to agree. I am going to do this shortly. The biggest issue is that the pain does not happen or kick in until 2 hours on the bike. so it is hard to explain to a bike fitter.
  • Jonathan BrownJonathan Brown
    Hey all,

    I am happy as a clam with the arm rest extensions. I did a 2 hour ride on Saturday majority of the time in aero and i had no back issues. Lets see how it goes this weekend when i will be on the bike for over 2.5 hours.
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