Suffering from lumbar & cervical disc issues: Which motorcycle for me?

The notion of replacing my Classic Chrome BS6 with a more lightweight and agile motorcycle has entered my contemplation.

BHPian Kirubakaran_G recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

My motorcycling reverie commenced in the year 2016 with the acquisition of a Royal Enfield Classic 350 Lagoon edition. Alas, dreams are ephemeral, for I was afflicted with cervical spondylosis, likely stemming from the arduous weightlifting sessions endured at the gym. The vibrations emanating from the handlebars of the Lagoon exacerbated my condition, inducing sharp anguish within my right shoulder joints. Consequently, I was compelled to part ways with my beloved motorcycle and instead opt for a 2019 Royal Enfield Himalayan, renowned for its ergonomic attributes that allowed me to ride without any bodily distress.

However, the onset of the pandemic inflicted further detriment upon my physical well-being. As soon as the curfew was lifted, I experienced excruciating agony originating from my hip and coursing down to my left foot. A medical examination revealed the diagnosis of Spinal Canal Stenosis, a rare ailment arising from a congenital flaw in the structure of my spinal column.

To abridge this protracted narrative, I refrained from indulging in motorcycling since 2020 and consequently sold my cherished Himalayan. Fortunately, the tides of fortune bestowed upon me the opportunity to encounter a Varma Doctor of exceptional proficiency last year, whose remarkable treatment facilitated my return to the realm of motorcycling in June 2022. While my initial inclination was to rekindle my love affair with the Classic 350, the newly unveiled iteration seemed rather ill-suited in terms of its dimensions (for the sake of reference, I stand at 184 centimeters in height and weigh approximately 90 kilograms). A brief test ride triggered severe discomfort within my left hip. Rumor had it that the BS6 UCE version of the Classic held greater suitability, hence I procured a Classic Chrome BS6 model last year. This motorcycle possessed a truly captivating allure and served me dutifully throughout the preceding year. Its primary purpose was commuting, despite my ongoing Varma treatment.

However, over the course of the past two months, my cervical discs C3 and C4 began to exhibit malfunctions. Even the previously relied-upon Varma Therapy proved insufficient in granting respite. I endured intense suffering within my left hand and upper back, as if teetering on the precipice of concluding my two-wheeled sojourn. To assuage the insufferable torment, I turned to the practice of yoga, which became my solace and a font of pain relief. Without the embrace of yoga, I feel bereft.

Now, returning to my present predicament, I am still capable of operating the Classic, albeit maneuvering it in and out of my garage and managing its weight while riding has transmuted into a formidable endeavor. Thus, the notion of replacing my Classic Chrome BS6 with a more lightweight and agile motorcycle has entered my contemplation. Initially, I harbored a certain disregard for motorcycles of lower displacement, yet I must confess that I have been proven wrong! I have undertaken test rides on various motorcycles, including the Honda Unicorn, Yamaha FZ V3, and Hero Xpulse 200 4V. I found them to possess nimbleness and reasonably commendable torque, albeit not on par with my previous choices. The slightly aggressive ergonomics of the FZ V3 proved unsuitable for my back condition, thus necessitating its exclusion from my selection.

At present, the leading contenders are the Honda Unicorn and Xpulse 200 4V.

My requirements are as follows:

• Smooth suspension to alleviate stress on my back.
• A riding posture devoid of aggression, enabling the preservation of a straight and perpendicular alignment with the seat. Even a modicum of aggression strains my upper back, as exemplified by the FZ V3.
• Neither forward-mounted foot pegs nor rear-set foot pegs, as these exacerbate the strain upon my back.
• Comfort for my mother when she accompanies me as a pillion rider, with sufficient space and ease to accommodate her as she dons a saree and assumes a sideways position.
• A refined engine, possessing performance capabilities that adequately cater to my needs.

I would be immensely grateful if fellow riders could proffer their insights and propose any additional alternatives to my roster. Among the options under consideration, which one would best align with my stipulations?

Here’s what BHPian GutsyGibbon had to say on the matter:

Each one of us have our own reasons to ride or not to ride. Reasons why we pick the fit of one bike over the other. However, the adjectives you use to talk about the pain, makes me wonder about what your doctors have advised you.

I can understand the riding position making a difference after a 200km 4 hour ride, but short 50km rides should cause no intense suffering regardless of the bike. Even the buzziest handlebar can be tackled with decent gloves with gel padding. One should be able to adjust their riding position a tiny bit to find comfort on most standard bikes. How about getting on and off taller bikes like xpulse? Is that not an issue?

I would add a seat with better support and see what it does to your back, and have an honest open discussion with the doctor to see if this is all a good ide

Here’s what BHPian subin_cb had to say on the matter:

Your case may be rare as most people with such conditions may stop riding and will not try finding the right bike. I would suggest you try bikes you can grip the tank well and Lil bit weight distributed to the shoulder like the ninja 650 kind. Or may be Duke 390. Try renting.

I couldn’t ride cruiser bikes for long distance due to back ache even with forward controls. Used to stop so many times, rest for while and then ride. Sometimes even get back.massage. But now I rode non stop from Bangalore to Chennai. Only stopped for petrol and never got out. Mostly will ride back same format in three days I had forgotten of back aches actually. The diffenerce is now I have habit of gripping tank and leaning a bit forward while riding..

Here’s what BHPian anad.shankar82 had to say on the matter:

I myself have a slip-disc condition and I used to ride the Dominar 400 V1 for long distances without issues until I had an unfortunate fall at home which broke (hairline) one of my lumbar vertebrae and I gave it up with reluctance

You can consider this bike for long touring without discomfort but in the city it takes some effort to move it without the engine on

If touring is not your plan and just have city runs in mind then better settle for a scooter like I have now (again very reluctantly reconciled to this myself)

Here’s what BHPian aviator_1101 had to say on the matter:

You may try the following motorcycles also :-

1. Honda Highness CB350.

• It has got a bench seat and neutrally placed pegs.
• Very well suited for pillion.
• Well sorted suspension.
• Kerb weight is just about 180kgs.

2. Triumph Speed 400

• The bike is newly launched. However, initial reviews say that it is nimble and comfortable for city rides.
• Well padded seat though slightly stepped up.
• Has a soft sprung suspension.
• Kerb weight just about 170 kgs.

The above bikes, though are of higher displacement, have very refined engines, are comparatively lighter in weight (not much if compared to Xpulse) and not of hooliganic nature which should suit your requirements.

Here’s what BHPian Red_Liner had to say on the matter:

I found the ather surprisingly way more comfortable than any motorcycle I have ridden in my life. That suspension felt amazing.

15km commute? My money is on the ather.

Keyword: Suffering from lumbar & cervical disc issues: Which motorcycle for me?