My upper legs start to cramp after riding my bike for only 15 minutes. Has anyone else experienced this? Would installing forward controls extensions, or heel rests, help?

 

Not normal. If you have cramps after only 15 minutes, the controls are probably not at fault.

Do your thighs cramp up just sitting in a chair? How tall are you?

 

No, they only hurt when I ride.

 

Do you carry a wallet in your back pocket when you ride? If it's very thick, it could cause you to pinch one of the nerves than run down the back of your legs.

 

I used to get cramps on a Honda with mid controls, but never with forwards. Maybe a disk problem in your back? Don't know?

 

My $.02 is that you are gripping your tank too tight... relax and sit comfortably.

 

I'm 6'1" and my hips would hurt after 15 minutes or so, I installed forward control extensions and the pain is gone.

 

There are numerous "cures" for leg cramps for you. The
first thing to check is your water consumption. Dehydration is one
common cause of leg cramps. Potassium and calcium intake are another
factor.
Its not always the motorcycle.

 

I do appreciate everyone's response to this painful dilemma. I agree that it is not always the bike. However, I ride other bikes (all with either mid-controls or rearsets) and do not experience similar leg cramps--even after riding for hours.

 

Hmmm...sounds like maybe installing mid-pegs or floorboards might be a possible fix, since riding with mids or rearsets don't cause the same symptoms.