Get a bike fitting. I had minor problems, then got fitted for my road bike.
I also agree with being stiff on the bike. I used to have a death grip when I rode my KTM dirt bike and had problems with my hands going numb and my elbows hurt. I wasn't loose enough on the bike.
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2007 Jamis Ventura Comp
2006 Jamis Explorer 2.0
2000 Specialized Hardrock (bought used)
Swim, Bike, Run and sounds like fun