I would also be uncomfortable on a road bike when not exerting myself. That being said, there are good reasons why bikes come in different shapes for different

I would also be uncomfortable on a road bike when not exerting myself. That being said, there are good reasons why bikes come in different shapes for different use cases. Casual riding can be very comfortable with a more suitable frame and configuration. The one-bike-that-does-it-all (aka "quiver-killer") is an elusive beast in the cycling community, it's no surprise your road bike doesn't fit the bill. The style most people end up settling on is something along the lines of a light-ish steel touring frame, with reasonable slack and tire clearance, equipped with a Brooks saddle and handlebars with multiple hand positions.