Don't want to rain on your parade and if you really think this is the bike for you than go for it, however it isn't a touring bike and isn't going to perform like a touring bike. If the tires on this bike are the same as spec'd they are a narrow tire, which is zippy for off the line in a race but on a distance ride will add to fatigue of the rider. I know where indysteel is coming from about her touring bike being heavier but,My touring bike "Sky" is predictable and well mannered and you can't pry me off of her. In fact my descending speed has increased dramatically on my touring bike because I know it isn't going to hit a bump and decided to try and buck me off. I have numerous friends who ride Surly Long Haul Trucker's and they couldn't be happier, none of them are doing loaded touring (yet) - but I am working on them. I don't race but I do occasionally ride with groups and have no problem keeping up. Here is a blog post you may find interesting on choosing a touring bike