I'm also in your age bracket. I'm used to spending long hours in the saddle of a road bicycle with drop bars, so the lean forward position of a sport bike doesn't bother me hardly at all. I have an 08 1000RR.

For a really long ride, things like a tank bag to rest on and a throttle lock to rest your wrist are welcome additions. Before I added those I did an 1,100 mile ride in 25.5 hours, including about 5 hours at a motel to thaw out and take a hot shower and a quick nap.

As someone else said, everyone is different.

 

The only suggestion that hasn't been mentioned yet is downing a couple Advil before starting. That helps. A throttle lock is a wrist saver, I second the motion to have one.

 

+1 Throttle Lock man - drugs - well usually I 'm already there & usually for non bike
related reasons ! lol

 

When you hear a voice in your head telling you, "It's ok to close your eyes for a little bit." It is time to pull over, pitch your tent and go to sleep!