Thanks for this post. I was looking for some thoughts on hand pain/numbness.

I like the "death grip" comment. I am getting back on a road bike for the first time in several years. My confidence in descents is still off, and I tend to throttle the brake hoods. That and getting used to STI shifting from my ancient down tube shifters has me up on the handlebars for longer periods

The seat position on my Specialized Allez Sport is dead on for leg power and back support, I am getting hand numbness after the first hour or so of riding. Would adding a spacer to the bar stem be advised to raise the handlebars?

My CAADX has a less aggressive riding geometry and I don't get the same type of numbness on long rides. I take the CX on light trails as well as pavement, so my hands are moving more. Same seat height relative to pedal position...just different results.

I suppose I could drop some cash into a proper fitting, if that's the way to go...

Thanks for the input