Since you're struggling with back pain, have you considered a recumbent? I was an avid upright rider until my hubby's back pain reduced his riding to almost nothing. He switched to a recumbent and started riding pain-free. I soon followed (if you can't beat 'em.....) and have never looked back. I am faster now (top speed 25, cruising at 17-18 easily) and able to cycle hours without any pain whatsoever. We even toured the Pacific Coast on them last year - 1,254 miles in 24 days. And I'm not a spring chicken - 54 years young.

Don't give up - getting healthy is too important to quit!