Thanks everyone. I saw the Surly... not too thrill with the paint color. I know, it's really silly but I just can't see myself with it.

DH now thinks maybe I should look into the Trek Soho Yes, it's aluminum. I don't know how that would ride since I've never had an aluminum bike before. But he likes the idea of the carbon drive belt and internal hub brakes...there's no major maintenance involved. And since I ride in all weather, it's less work for him But I wonder how durable these compontents are. It's one thing if I'm biking in town. But what about when I'm doing my credit card touring?

I guess the search continues...