Not sure why but for me, leaning forward on the bars, oh man it’s bad. Dead straight up with legs at a 90 degree angle to my spine is working best for me. My chiropractor actually has me doing strengthening exercises that simulate that position.

I’m getting better and promised to not do anything stupid this weekend to cause a relapse. We’ll see how that goes.

Back is improving but progress is frustratingly slow. My inflammatory arthritis flares when I do something stupid with my back. A cascade of things happens and it’s just a long, slow recovery. Ugh.

Actually not so much. I read years ago that the human spine was designed to be a suspension bridge not a tower. Leaning forward onto handlebars is probably more in keeping with the design of our bodies than the upright position of a scooter. Recently I had a chance to do back to back 156 mile rides with both the Rebel and the Helix clone. My body fared much better on the trip with the bike than the scooter. Most long distance scooter riders resort to a back rest mounted for just this reason. I bought a kidney belt for long scooter rides.

If you have disc or spin issues ignore me it it is sore muscles on the lower right or left try it. If it is between the shoulders and muscles I have another one for you.

If you have disc or spin issues ignore me it it is sore muscles on the lower right or left try it. If it is between the shoulders and muscles I have another one for you.

Pigeon pose — that looks painful right now. I’ll have to experiment. Thanks for the tip though. I’m always open to miracles!

Not sure about the gel seat. I’ve not seen one for the Vespa but I have read about long distance Vespa riders taping a pillow to the seat. Looks but but feels good. I’m far enough along now I don’t need it but will look for some gel seat solutions. Thanks for the idea.

Once things heal the upright position actually is best. The problem was caused by a muscle pull and subsequent spasms that ends up irritating a nerve and things just get messed up from there. The cure is to not tax the back. Patience is required and acceptance that a lot of things aren’t going to get done.

Right now — bumps on the road can hurt. I stand for some. Like I’m a Vespa motocross rider!

You are right about nothing being right with the world when the pain hits. Amazing how persuasive it is.

Four hours of intense riding would drain anyone. Still fun though despite the reminders from the body.

A six-pack of Vespa riders. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a thing!

Old age is for adventurers!