They had one of these in the local shop where I go, in my size, and at a really good price reduction. I was very tempted, but I already have 4 road bikes, including a touring bike very similar to the Clubman. Apart from being a bit heavy, it is a beautiful bike. If properly fitted, I don't think the bars will be a problem. My touring bike has the bars higher than my other road bikes and it is the perfect spring ride. Oh and I have the same saddle on it as well

Looks good. Aristocratic. Distributing some of your weight to the handlebars shouldn't necessarily be bad for your lower back, assuming you can bend a little. Also a less vertical posture should be easier on bumps. And yes the handlebar up a bit should be easy to do and help a lot. My LBS did fit today the bike I got online and it was on the house. You shouldn't pay much for the riser anyway and yo can also rotate the bar up.Enjoy your ride man.

http://www.rei.com/product/808997?cm_mmc=cse_nextag-_-datafeed-_-product-_-808997&mr:referralID=c64df604-5c08-11e0-9f53-001b2166beccCongrats on the Social Security victory! Recently I rode the Raleigh Revino, very comfortable bike. Very capable ride. It is light and the ride is not overly bumpy. I think you have to balance the bike's weight with your ailments and physical strength. You may already have another option, Diamondback R series? I like Raleigh. Clubman is a tourer, a pack mule, a stout frame for long range travels. If what you want is a tourer and look no further you will have no regrets. Other brand tourers worth your consideration would be Surley and Fuji. Touring bike geometry is built for relative comfort, this type of bicycle is a good fit for you. Again congrats.

Hey, great to hear from you, Old Hippie! Congratulations!That looks like a great bike. With 9spd (12-26t) cogs you should be able to always find a ratio that is just exactly right for the situation. Each successive cog will make a difference of about 10.15%. The steel frame will give you a smooth ride. If your back ever needs an even smoother ride you could upgrade to a shock absorbing seat post.I am very happy for you.