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[Sev]

The nerves in your body all run along certain paths. Everyone knows this, but the thing is that they only grow from point A to point B. No one is sure exactly how they know how to get from one spot to another, but we do know that if the target of the nerve growth is moved, the nerve will grow to find it. All of this takes place during development obviously, and has nothing to do with the ability to regenerate nerves or anything.

The point I'm trying to make is that there is a set and normal path for nerves to take through your body, but it is VERY easy for them to just not follow this. The end up at the right spot and still do the same thing, but they aren't where they are supposed to be. This does not REALLY impare normal functions, but in some cases certain positions will put pressure on your nerves which over time can prevent them from firing. This CAN translate into numbness. The reason moving your thumb around prevents your hand from going numb is because it relieves the pressure on that particular nerve. So, you've got a couple of choices now that you know that... you can either live with it and move your thumb around. Take more frequent breaks to relieve pressure, or get a pair of bars that will put your hands in a different position.

I should also point out that over time, if a neuron does not fire it will die. As it isn't needed. When you are born you have 4 times the number of neurons in your body then are required, as you develop certain neurons (the best ones) gain preference and as such will survive, the rest atrophy and die. You might want to consider not "just living with it" because it is possible that given enough biking you could end up with a permanent numb hand. I'm not trying to scare you or anything, but it is possible.

Maybe talk to your doctor, I could be wrong, there's no way for me to tell what is going on over the internet... but based on the symptoms... I think this is the most likely.

So what's more important, cool looking handlebars? Or a hand that can still feel?

Edit: Damn you Psych teacher for making me understand how all this stuff works!

[ronboskz650sr]

Bar end weights can help, too. Similar concept to filling with shot, just less weight, all concentrated at the end. I think Buzz hit it on the head. I rode a Yamaha in the mid 80's, and couldn't get comfortable with those bars. Not my bike, so I couldn't fix it. I use superbike bars on my kz650.