Total Motorcycle Community Forums

so i ruptured a lower disk a few years ago and it acts up from time to time. what stance is best for the lower back- street, standard or cruiser?

I've had a compressed disk in my lower back for a few decades. I've found that the standard riding position works best for me. Balances the weight between the hands and the feet.

Sportbikes are great for the track, but I can only take an hour or two of that postion on the road. Cruisers with the feet forward position leave me sitting directly on my tailbone. Every bump in the road seems to travel right up my spine.

Thanks- That's what I was thinking. I rode a dual sport at the MSF and it was really comfortable.

I've had lower back surgury and the closer to a standard seating postiton the better. So Cruiser or other bike with Standard like seating position is the key.

I have bad lower back pain from arthritis, and 20 minutes on a cruiser starts to really smart...I can ride my SV650 (naked standard, not sport position) for a couple hours, and my butt gives out before my back.

As general rules go, sportbikes lean your body forward, and cruisers lean your body backward. Standard bikes have the footpegs almost directly under you, for that "sit up and beg" position.

The exceptions in sportbikes are the Kawi Ninja EX250 and EX500R, who's riding positions are very standard. While they look like sportbikes, their riding positions may be suitable. Also some cruisers have mid controls, putting the footpegs forward of but very close to directly under you. Sit on some cruisers and see their riding positions.

Sport touring and dual sport bikes often have very standard positions as well, so check them out. Don't limit your choice of bikes using general rules. There will be suitable bikes in all categories.

Thanks-
I have always wanted a dual sport, but there are a glut of crusiers for sale around here and they are selling for much cheaper than the KLR/DR/F650s. Man those BMWs hold their value...

Many moons a go, bikers used to wear 'kidney belts'. This was because most bikes were hard tails. Todays bikers now have a choice and the way of the 'kidney belt' is long gone.
But if you have lower back problems, a good 'wrap around back support' will do wonders when riding. Also a good 'gel seat' will help with lower back pain.
If they will fit your bike, you can also get a 'back rest' for your seat. I personally don't think they are the nicest looking thing on a bike, but the comfort they bring on a long haul will do wonders.
There are lots of choices out there to relieve your stress. Good riding!