I would be very surprised if aftermarket springs would match what BMW themselves provide as standard. I have ridden a 650 GT for the last 12 months over the potholed roads of Sussex and even with a bad back (chronic condition) I don't find the ride uncomfortable compared with my previous transport which was a BMW 800 GS.There is no doubt that the 650 GT has a sporty set up but that goes hand in glove with its performance. There is quite considerable adjustment on the pre-load from 1 to 6 and you will notice the difference. Because I often carry a pillion and luggage mine is set on 5.

A lot of "bikers" that go to scoots or dirt bikes suffer from back pain initially. Its just as been said you are sitting upright and every bump transmits up your spine. You get used to it. I find most bikes give me a numb arse for the first few hundred miles then I get used to it. I normally cycle my bike scoot ownership bike/scoot/bike/scoot etcI always have to readjust to each new type of bike. Recently I've bought scooter after scooter and haven't suffered from it.