Finger Tingling Vibration

[Westlain]

I am contemplating getting rid of my 2002 RS because my aging body can't take it much more. However the bike has been GREAT. It's so manageable and the torque is suberb. Of course there's the speed thing that may get me killed anyway!! But that's up to me to control. So i was in a "shall I, shall I not" mode until about a week ago when the thing starts vibe.. vibe.. vibe.. vibrating all thru the bike. My fingers end up tingling and starting to go dead after about 45 miles.
(the gonads get a thrill though!)
Anyway, the vibration is worse on acceleration then eases off when cruising. I don't believe it's due to wheel unbalance so anyone have any ideas? If I can fix it I'll probably keep the bike.

[DragonDan]

There's many things to consider. Thicker grips ( I use ProGrip 714), bar risers, gel padded gloves.
The cheap fix might be to look at your riding position. Do you keep too much weight on your wrists? Do you bend your wrists up when reaching for brake/ clutch? Ergonomically speaking, the wrist should follow the line of your forearm - no bending to put strain on tendons/ nerves. Do more core body work to alleviate using your arms for body support. A strong back is useful in more ways than just motorcycling! Use your legs more while accelerating or braking for body support.

I am considering risers as I get the same tingling, I think alot of it has to do with the angle of the arm/wrist/hand for someone taller. Doesn't the RS have lower bars than the ST? You might consider a swap to ST bars. I have read where this has helped others. I saw some recently on ebay.

[ This message was edited by: bluedogok on 2005-06-16 11:13 ]

[JReynolds]

Having read your vibration did not start until last week, I would look at a possible engine issue. Starting with the engine mounts, exhaust mounts and anything else which may come in contact with it.

Worst case is that something is starting to happen in the engine, but this is highly unlikely....

Just my opinion...
Jim

[DaveM]

Jim how many miles have you got on it?

I would suggest engine mounts the right place to start, maybe a bolt has worked a little loose?

DaveM

[Westlain]

Appreciate the feedback. I'll check the engine mounts this weekend and all other bolts. Hopefully it's that. I was riding it this morning to work and I do still love it, after 8400 miles and 3 years.

[Eclipse_Blue]

I used to get the same on my RS too after a while, numbness of the fingers leading to slower movement. I found that this is due to pressure on the palm of the hand slowing blood circulation and can be relieved by loosening your grip and flexing your fingers. The alternative submissions all work - gel gloves, risers, ST bars but it is easier just to ease the pressure on your hands. Typical Scottish method - no cost! :-D