In my experience, it need not be cracked to feel VERY much like it's cracked!
I suspect that, sometimes, the pain is from the damage done to the muscles and 'connective tissue' between the ribs.
I've done both (cracked ribs and also torn muscles, etc. on seperate occasions). Both hurt like HELL..... but I couldn't tell the difference in the pain 'quality' or 'quantity'.
Neither heal quickly and neither seem to be easily avoidable. The problem is that we still race with low-sided seats which only support us on our lower ribs.
Another cause can be the use of the wrong sort of 'heads' on the seat 'bolts' or insufficiently padded/countersunk ones.
Allowing your chassis to 'hop' under high cornering forces can do it too... as can kerb riding. Seat stays that are to 'stiff' will do it, too. As will having your seat too LOOSE.... or too tight......
Damn it! Doing karting AT ALL, seems to do it!
Ian
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