So I just got back on a sport bike again, after a 7 year hiatus, during which time I've developed a "mild" case of arthritis in my left knee. This past weekend in Wisconsin was unusually warm, and as my "new" 2004 CBR600RR got delivered on Friday, I was lucky enough to log about 150 miles between Friday and Saturday. I woke up on Sunday barely able to walk, my knee the size of a grapefruit. I struggled through work Sunday night (3rd shift), and as I wake up this evening it's only slightly better. I'm hoping it's just my body getting used to the ergonomics of riding again, and that in time my body (and arthritis) will adjust. At 46, I'm no Spring Chicken anymore though.
Anyone out there have similar issues? How do you overcome them? Does your body adjust once muscle memory is back? Have any of you had to call it quits because of arthritis? I shudder to think of having to relegate my riding to a cruiser...

 

Not arthritis as such, but sometimes I get cramps in my hips.

This can be very uncomfortable/painful. I've just switched from a CBR1000F to a 900RR and am trying yoga to help me loosen up a bit.

I was also starting to get arthritis in my fingers, but I've re-discovered my love for playing guitar and the extra activity seems to have eliminated it completely.

Maybe some exercises and stretches will help your knee, starting with something very gentle, you don't want to set things back even further.

BTW I'm 57.

 

I have had knee problems for many years now. My joints get pretty sore after about a hour or so of riding. Some days are worse than others....

Never had them swell up like that without direct injury though. I didn't think arthritis did that. IMO, you have something else causing that.

 

I am 50. I've abused my body a considerable amount during that time. I get stiff a little after being in the same position for very long, not limited to riding. But I've not experienced what you are describing.

 

sounds like you have a knee problem that isn't arthritis, my knees swell up but that's because ive torn both knees, meniscus ripped in half. go see a doctor

 

I saw a doctor last fall, after another knee swelling incident, unrelated to riding. At that time they took x-rays of the knee, and the doc said it was arthritis. He is not a rheumatologist however, and I took the diagnosis on faith. Perhaps it's time for a second opinion...
Thanks for the input. Update: it's been four days since riding, and the pain and swelling are much less now. I think I'm going to venture out again tomorrow, as it's probably my last best chance to get a ride in until April, at least.