10 straight years never once threw a leg over the bike without wearing knee braces. Various companies, sizes, knee socks, strap technology yet yeilding the same result. One day having forgot my knee braces I decided to ride with 25 dollar knee cups. Could not believe the results associated with physically gripping the bike, lifting leg through deep ruts and overall comfort. Night and day difference between the two. I do realize the safty factors associated, but the reduction in arm pump and overall maneuverability when transitioning from sitting to standing are not easyily offset.