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RSTDdog - Thanks for that very considered opinion. Also loved the "Lifted Truck" analogy earlier. Not sure my STella wants to eat a Venture though Wifey and I just did a "Ride for Dad" on Saturday and we were both a bit sore when we arrived home. Mind you, it involved a slow parade through town for about an hour. I was using the stock seat with 2" Laminar Lip risers in place. The risers help, but that seat is cruel on a guy with a lower back problem. I've come to the conclusion that any seat that is narrower than, or equal to, the width of your sit points will cause your hips to hurt within an hour or so. To wit (I'm being pretentious now - impressive wha?) I picked up a really rough used Corbin seat a while ago. It's much more comfortable, but also sits me back about 2" further than stock. That 2" pretty much negates the riser benefits. I grew to love my ST1100 over the last year or so - especially on the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia - the bike was simply amazing. Full lean to full lean in mountain twisties is where that thing shines. And I know I'll miss it during that type of run if I make the change. But I really enjoy long tours and I think comfort should probably be the deciding factor. I know of a good price on an 01 RSV but it has 100,000km on it. Recognizing that the engines last a long time, I'm still a bit put off by that. For another $3500 I can get one with lower mileage and a bit newer, but I'm not sure I'll get $3500 worth of extra value. My ST1100 is low mileage and in excellent shape, so it should get a decent dollar in our market. Anyway, thanks for all the responses. Feel free to keep 'em coming.

Hi All, Currently riding a 2001 Honda ST1100. I love some aspects of the bike, but my aging back isn't liking the riding position as much as it might when I was younger. Also, after about 200km, my lovely wife was somewhat 'sit disadvantaged' when she got off. So, I'm checking out the Venture. Around these parts, they seem to be a great deal compared to a GoldWing - and I've never warmed up to wings. Any one else make a similar change? Thanks all, Keith