I've been fighting hand pain ever since I got back on my bike in 2013. The problem (aside from arthritis in my left thumb) is that I rest too much weight on the 'bars.

I can keep weight off my hands when coasting and when pedaling all out. I just can't figure out how to engage the muscles that hold me up while coasting, etc., when I pedal normally.

Am I missing something technique-wise? If so, what is it?

Thanks in advance. BTW, I'm way overweight, and I'm 72.

Usually raising the bar height a bit helps.

- Cpt. Bob

I consciously have to think to do it. When I feel weight on my hands I suck in my tummy and tighten those muscles and I consciously relax my arms and hands. I can feel the difference when my core is holding me up but it's too easy to just slack the weight onto the arms. I think it is a matter of training yourself to tighten your abs and relax you arms. It also helps me if I push down on the pedals a bit more. IMO raising the bars (assuming they are set correctly for you) will not help strengthen your core.

Is your saddle level?

Nitto Technomic stem, 1.5" above seat level. The stem is so long that it can't go any lower. I hadn't thought of raising it. (Another Doh! moment).

Cheap Selle SMP saddle, pretty level - in any case, it has solved my perineal pain problem, so I don't want to mess with it.

Next ride I'll do some more sensing to figure out what I do to hold myself up when I'm coasting. Tightening abs and loosening shoulders haven't been enough....

Do a Google search for "core strengthening exercises". That should do the trick

Edit: They say rowing type exercise is good for the core, if not actually using an actual rowing machine, or rowing a boat.

Simple:

don't stop peddling.

When I had my bike fit, the fitter pointed out that I should feel like I am on a tripod (butt, feet, hands) and that none of those points should feel like they are carrying more weight than the others. What was interesting to me was how he helped me understand that the head/neck was the key pivot point. Depending on where my head was, every one of the other three points changed in terms of balance. I don't know if you can have someone video you while you ride, but that might be helpful. Other things to check are that your handlebar width is correct so you aren't pushing your shoulders together (too wide), and that your seat is the proper distance forward; if it is too far back you will carry more weight on your hands. If you haven't had your fit checked, maybe that's a good step, instead of assuming it is all (lack of) conditioning.