Just a little update on the back. Spring has given me some days to ride and I've been able to take advantage of it. Curious as to how the back would feel during actual cycling. I still get some pain, usually at around mile 20 to mile 70, but not as intense. After that, different parts of the body have their time of discomfort. But bottom line, losing the weight and working on the core has helped of course. Helped, but not eliminated it. Otherwise, I'm a much stronger rider upon improving my fitness. First Brevet this year (200K), I finished 2 hours sooner than last year. Just continuing the core exercises and watching the weight. And racking up the miles. Still playing with the fit of the bike a little, but no big changes.