Maxxis. I had the exact same surgery in Oct '12, also on L4/L5. I've done all the research you can on this and have first hand experience. You need to be aware of the following, if you want to live a normal life again: - don't rush to get back on the bike, you need to give the wound 8 weeks to heal properly - eventhough the pain is gone and you might feel 100%, you are not 100% yet and it can take up to 12 months to feel normal again. Although it is micro surgery, it is still a very deep and delicate procedure with cutting around sensitive areas around your spine - some form of stiffness will alway be present, and you'll have to be extra vigilant with your back going forward (how you sit, pick things up etc.) - for best recovery and to avoid a reoccurence, do your rehab properly as follows: 1. First properly strengthen your core again, (this starts immediately after surgery and should be done for at least 3 months). Consider the help of a biocineticist here 2. only get on a bike after you've completed the 3 month core and stretch routine to make sure your back is strong prior to getting in the saddle again 3. If you're a mtb'er, rather avoid a hardtail going forward 4. Maintain core strengthening excercises and stretches throughout your life 5. Avoid gaining any weight, to assist your back 6. Avoid jogging if you can, as the jarring won't be good for your discs You can cycle normal and even competitavely again, but ensure you are 100% recovered first. No use rushing it and then spoiling it for yourself forever.. When i got back on a bike for the first time after 3 months of core training and stretches, i felt awesome, as i've never really trained my core before, and i could all of a sudden feel the massive impact a stronger core makes for riding a bike. Feel free to Pm me for my number if you have more questions.
