QuestionI like to buy a super bike. Preferably a Yamaha R1. But riding one for more than 20 minutes looks like it can hurt the back. my question is do superbikes and the way the drive is seated cause back problems.
AnswerI am first going to answer the question you didn't ask but should have. Then I will answer the question you asked.
The fact that you even asked this question tells me you are not ready for an R1, or any other kind of superbike. Please do not buy a superbike. I fear for your life.
Modern 1000 or 600 cc bikes have WAY more power than is useful on the street. They're very difficult to learn on, they're expensive, and they're absolutely high-strung: like trying to learn to ride a horse by jumping on a wild Mustang. The only place a bike that big can be properly ridden is on a track.
You should have at least four or five years of experience on a smaller sportbike before you even THINK about moving up to an 600, and you should have at least two or three years on a 600 before you even THINK about buying a superbike. I recommend you start with a 250 or 500 Ninja, FZR400, Interceptor 500, or SV650. Those bikes are forgiving enough--and incredibly fun--for you to learn how to ride first.
I am not kidding about this. Do not buy and R1. Okay? Okay?
As far as back problems, don't worry about it. Take a closer look at people who ride sportbikes, and compare them to people who ride cruisers. On a sportbike, your back is straight, and you have more weight on your hands, wrists, and feet. I believe a sport bike is actually BETTER for your back than other bikes. It takes a little getting used to, your arms/wrists will get tired. Good riders grip the bike with their knees, keeping their arms, shoulders, and back loose and flexible to control the bike.
Good luck to you, and please let me know how you're doing along the way. Start small, and you will not regret it. If you start big, you will undoubtedly be sorry.
Pat
