Hi everyone - back with a little update. (Btw - review left and beer offer made!)

Due to the weather I haven't put many miles on, but it is clear that the changes made so far are a significant improvement. Interestingly, I still feel a bit cramped and think that I need to go with an even longer stem and more setback on the saddle. This is something I've never even considered before.

Yesterday I went on a 22 mile group 3 spd ride. This was my first ride over 3 miles on my new (ancient) Hawthorn Hercules. She has been modernized with a tall stem, wide swept back handlebars and Ergon grips. It is super upright - like European city bike style. I was amazed at how comfortable I was the entire ride! Even with a big squishy cruiser saddle everything felt great. It was probably the first time I have ridden a bike for any distance without discomfort and simply enjoyed the ride. Due to her big 22t cog in back I was able to go up hills with ease and still keep up a lively pace.

So I'm thinking the next (and least expensive) step will be to convert a Raleigh Mixte road bike I have from drops to North Road style bars and see how I like it. The drivetrain is modern so I should be able to get a good idea of how well upright will work for me over longer more hilly rides.

This is turning out to be quite a fun process!