Winston-Salem Cycling Classic: How Handlebar Posture Affects Your Spine

The Winston-Salem Cycling Classic returns on May 23, 2026, as the USA CRITS Series Finale, bringing elite criterium-style racing to the streets. It’s an exciting event for spectators and an inspiring one for local cyclists who are training, riding more miles, or jumping back on the bike for the season.

Whether you’re racing, riding recreationally, or simply motivated by the event, one thing can make a real difference in how your body holds up: your handlebar posture. And at Erickson Clinic of Chiropractic, helping cyclists stay comfortable and aligned is something we care deeply about.

How Your Riding Position Stresses Your Spine

Cycling places you in a forward-leaning position for extended periods. While that aerodynamic posture helps with speed and efficiency, it can also create stress on your neck, mid-back, and lower back. Over time, that strain can lead to stiffness, headaches, shoulder tension, or lower back discomfort.

One of the biggest issues we see is rounding through the upper back while reaching for the handlebars. When this happens, your head naturally extends forward so you can see the road. That combination of rounded shoulders and forward head posture places extra load on the muscles supporting your neck and spine. The longer you ride, the more those muscles fatigue.

Handlebar Setup and the Mistakes That Add Up

Handlebar height and reach also play a major role. If your handlebars are too low or too far away, your spine is forced into a more aggressive position than your body may be ready for. This can lead to tight hip flexors, increased lower back pressure, and uneven weight distribution between your hands and saddle. Handlebars positioned appropriately, on the other hand, allow your spine to stay more neutral and your shoulders to relax.

Another common mistake is locking the elbows. Rigid arms transfer road vibration directly into your shoulders and spine. Keeping a slight bend in your elbows acts like a natural shock absorber (it’s a small change with a noticeable payoff) and helps reduce stress throughout your upper body.

How to Ride More Comfortably This Season

Getting ready for rides inspired by the Cycling Classic doesn’t require major changes. Focus on maintaining a neutral spine, keeping your shoulders relaxed, and engaging your core to support your posture. Take breaks during longer rides to reset your position and stretch your hips and mid-back. If you’re increasing mileage quickly, your body may benefit from additional support to stay balanced.

“Cycling is fantastic exercise, but the sustained forward posture can create stress on the spine if your alignment isn’t right. Small adjustments to posture and mobility, along with chiropractic care, can help cyclists stay comfortable and perform at their best,” emphasizes Winston-Salem chiropractor Dr. Rick Erickson.