Originally Posted by
Kryten41
(I refuse to raise the seat so high that I can't touch the ground with one foot while seated).
In my opinion, that is the source of your problem. Bikes need to fit properly in order to be efficient and comfortable while
riding. I adjust my saddle and handlebar position for maximum comfort for my spine, legs, neck and wrists while riding. I am happy to make the sacrifice of standing at a red light for 90 seconds for the payoff of supreme comfort during the many hours of pedaling, cruising, accelerating, carving through corners, climbing, zooming downhill, fighting wind, and enjoying the scenery that I do.
Of all my bikes, the one that fits me best while
riding is one that is so tall I can't even stand over without leaning it to one side. But I don't care at all because it fits like a glove when I'm rolling.
Even on my cruisers, I have my legs set up for pedaling, not stopping.
You might experiment a little. It's free, easy, and you can always return things to where you started if the results don't please you.