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 ROAD SHOCK

My Surly Cross Check does not have any type of suspension. The tires are hard because they have 100 psi and the wheel hubs are attached directly to the bike frame. The handle bars are attached directly to the frame through a rigid stem. 

Everything on a bicycle vibrates, every bump travels directly through the entire bike. I lost my first Garmin Etrex Vista due to this vibration and fresh strawberries turn to jam in abut 20 miles. 

Good gloves help but all day on a bicycle takes learning a technique.  I have learned over time how to grip my down bars to minimize the effects of this vibration. 

Constantly changing hand position, avoid long contact with the heal of your palm and not resting too much weight on the bars. This can be adjusted by having a proper bike shop fit. Make sure they understand you are doing long distance touring.

I have not yet developed a butt technique. On a ride around town I am constantly in and out of the saddle to absorb the road shock but all day on a touring bike this is not possible. 

There was a 100 mile stretch in Southern California, the berm had a deep cut groove every 20 feet, there was no way to take every hit with my legs. Eventually I had to take each hit with my full weight on the seat. Each shock traveled through the bike and up my spine. This was a very long day.

I needed something to absorb the road shock. I found the Cain Creek Thud Buster seat post. They make a larger size with plenty of travel for off road. I had one but found the compact size met my needs much better. No springs or fluids to squeak or leak and three densities of rubber inserts to adjust the firmness. 

There are many other designs on the market but I like this design because it keeps a constant distance between my butt and my feet. I never feel like I'm  bouncing in fact I don't feel it is there. I do know it adds miles to my day and cuts down the aches and pains of a long days ride.