My last "face reality" situation was in '03, when I had to accept the truth of no more rigid/hardtail riding. I have my old HT frame waiting for another rebuild, with a suss post though.... Suspension has become a necessity of life for me to ride. I have three herniated lumbar discs, with spinal stenosis, and the forward-leaning position is actually the best therapy for the back; so a 'bent isn't needed, for me. RG, best to you with yours, at least you'll still be pedaling....

I've had to come to grips with the fact that I have limits beyond which I DARE not push, although I try to keep those limits as far from 'comfort' as possible. I'm two days away from my 51st, and my goal is to see my 90th in the saddle, 90 minutes worth. The balance of pushing myself and not overdoing will be a fluid situation for these next 39 years. WANT is the biggest factor in my favor.