I, too, am from FL and I don't know if I want to be called middle-aged, but my youngest just graduated from college this week, so I probably am...
Anyway, I just purchased my RTS SE5 two weeks ago and have had a mixed experience. It has already been in the shop for one of those two weeks to fix the creep/stall clutch issue and bouncing gas gauge. They still aren't done with it and now have to wait another day to order parts since BRP is closed on Mondays... I am new to motorcycling, so I can't compare it to two wheels, but I was really loving the ride for the few times I was able to take it out before the problems arose. I know I took a risk with purchasing a "first year vehicle", so I am trying to be overly patient (not easy for me!). Keeping up with my husband on his Harley is one of my goals, too...
I think alot of the good and bad experiences we see on this site have to do with the dealer we are working with. There are obviously thousands of new owners who aren't all having mechanical problems. I am waiting to pass judgement until I see how they fix my new toy. You are lucky you were able to do a test drive. None of the dealers in my area of south Florida would allow a test drive AT ALL, due to "insurance issues". I had to fill out all the paperwork to buy it, then take it on a test drive. If I didn't like it, they would rip up the docs, but I loved it, so took it home.
I too sat on the RS and RT and they are like apples and oranges. I totally agree with your assessment of how the seats felt, as I am only 5'3" and felt so much more comfortable on the RTS. I would NOT recommend buying the RS and modifying it, trying to feel more like the RTS, unless you can find someone who did so, can ride theirs and you love it...
PM me if you would like to know more and good luck with your decision.