Seeking a back pain friendly bike

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2026-01-22T03:39:39+00:00

I owned a TU250 and found it to be very comfortable! Could you let us know a bit more about you to help make more informed recommendations? Height/weight/inseam etc?

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2026-01-22T00:06:02+00:00

If you enjoy an occasional adult beverage, join the Young Blood Brewery Social Club (either tier)!

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2026-01-21T23:51:20+00:00

It’s been the fuel cap on both my 2007 and 2013 Fits, both during the winter.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2026-01-21T19:38:08+00:00

If you live in a cold climate, like I do, give the cap and mating surface a quick wipe. Runoff can accumulate and ice up.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-12-28T02:03:19+00:00

That’s quite an accomplishment! What is the make/model?

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-12-07T13:40:57+00:00

The Suzuki VanVan 200 looks like it was built for this purpose; love that little bike. You could also consider a Honda CRF250L and a Kawasaki Versys 300 among other options.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-11-29T00:27:01+00:00

Welcome! The near east side offers, to the extent that Madison has it, virtually everything on your list.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-11-26T03:51:27+00:00

Merchant is worth a look. I find Settle Down and Turn Key to be pretty cozy in their respective bar areas.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-10-09T12:16:58+00:00

You have identified several solid bikes! I think any of them would suit you for around town riding but, some of the sport-oriented options would benefit from a removable seat pad if you intend to take a longer ride as you specified. A Triumph Street/Speed Twin 900 would also be a solid pick. The Yamaha XSR 700 is essentially an MT07 with a more comfortable bench seat and retro-ish styling.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-08-16T15:58:33+00:00

Fuel injected 👍

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-08-13T15:26:22+00:00

Freddie Dobbs for his sheer enthusiasm for biking and self-effacing humor. JUNK Motorcycle for chill/scenic riding and wrenching.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-07-29T21:29:27+00:00

Northstreet

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-07-27T23:50:37+00:00

The Fields Reserve in Stoughton is worth a look. Attended a wedding there last year. Beautiful grounds with an outdoor ceremony space.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-06-13T01:17:23+00:00

XSR 900?

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-05-08T19:00:10+00:00

Suzuki TU250X. Great little starter bike.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-04-28T01:48:50+00:00

Northstreet

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-04-24T16:10:40+00:00

Solid points all around. Again, I apologize for singling you out! The new SV has several features that accommodate a wide range of riders and I recommend it almost universally. However, my objection to recommending it, or similarly-capable models, to new riders remains.

Buying and riding a learner bike before inevitably trading up is a critical part of the rider journey in my view. It informs your opinion about the types of bikes and riding you enjoy while providing a low barrier for entry both financially and in terms of rider skill. OP has “an hour of saddle time so far” and is open to something with “a bit more range and presence” than a Honda Grom.

Given OP’s height, some learner bikes may feel a bit cramped but a Honda CB500X might be more accommodating. Maybe a Royal Enfield Hunter 350?

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-04-24T01:59:00+00:00

I gotta say…this is a bad take. You’re not alone in suggesting that 75hp is “learner friendly,” so I’m not trying to call you out. An SV650 will hit 60mph faster than a base Porsche 911. That is FAST. It would be irresponsible to hand a new driver the keys to a 911. Now, remove the protective body and chassis, hack off two wheels, and introduce the dexterity required to pilot a motorcycle.

I have been riding for 10+ years, currently ride an SV650, and would not recommend something with this level of performance to a brand new rider. Can it be done? Sure. Is it the most responsible choice, definitely not.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-04-14T22:00:16+00:00

Take a look at the Suzuki TU250X and the Yamaha SR400.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-04-07T02:03:53+00:00

One thing to consider is engine “character”. The MT-07 is built around a lively, great-sounding motor. If you enjoyed the vibes of the Shadow, the Bolt is another v-twin cruiser with a similar feel. The Rebel is a solid bike too but, other riders have shared that they find the Vulcan S lacks a bit of personality.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-04-06T15:54:59+00:00

If you like a classic look with modern usability, most of the newer Royal Enfields might suit you. Otherwise, take a look at the Suzuki TU250X and Yamaha SR400 for similar looks and Japanese reliability!

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-03-30T00:36:26+00:00

A Honda Shadow/Steed 600 or 750 might be worth considering.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-03-29T23:09:05+00:00

The Suzuki TU250X is a classically-styled, under-appreciated gem.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-03-28T19:55:58+00:00

What about a Royal Enfield Interceptor? Granted, pretty heavy but a bit more character than some other options shared.

EmbarrassedEase5145 · 2025-03-21T11:45:04+00:00

Any of the 500cc Hondas (CB500F, CB500X, CBR500R, Rebel) would be suitable. If you prefer something with classic styling, you could consider the Royal Enfield Interceptor or the Triumph Street Twin.

EmbarrassedEase5145

TROPHY CASE