Thank you for your comment. I do have a suspension seat post on my other bike but I think for my specific issue low psi of balloon tyres helps more - presumably because it tackles a different frequency or types of vibrations.Why not fit a suspension seatpost? Cheaper than a new bike. I just happen to know where there is an excellent quality, little used Thudbuster LT looking for a good home.
Thank you. I did see it as well and quite like it but need something fully equipped - including panier racks.A Bergamont Revox perhaps? It's 54mm tyres are about the same as the ones on a Vitess.
https://www.rutlandcycling.com/bike...Vkd_tCh1m3wzTEAQYAyABEgKAx_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
I'd avoid a new MTB in your price range for road use - even swapping the tyres for slicks it will still come with front suspension which will be heavy and terrible on a paved surface. @SkipdiverJohn rightly notes that an older rigid forked MTB would be ideal but finding one might be a struggle with a the current second hand market.
Think gravel bike. These have the clearance to install very wide tires though 35 mm at 60 psi would soften just about anything short of the San Andreas Fault. You can get knobby, semi knobby (which role suprisingly easy on pavement) and smooth tread. With a bad back make no effort to keep up with the rabbits.Thank you for your comment. I do have a suspension seat post on my other bike but I think for my specific issue low psi of balloon tyres helps more - presumably because it tackles a different frequency or types of vibrations.
I prefer to find a bike already equipped with balloon tyres as my attempts to install them on existing bikes ended with mixed results. There is either not enough room or I had to remove mudguards etc.
Also, looking for a relaxed riding position.