Pros: more upright position but still option of drop handlebars. wider tires than road bike--steadier ride. generous gearing ratio.

cons: (not sure how much of a con for beginner rider): a little heavier bike than road bike. wider tires means more resistance on the road--you work a little harder to go fast, however--touring bikes are meant to be stable when they are loaded with panniers.

I liken the difference as that between a sports car (road bike), a jeep (mountain bike) and a station wagon (touring bike).

I have both a touring bike and a road bike. My touring bike is more upright but I still have the option of positions with the drop handlebars. it is a more stable ride on the garbage you find on the side of the road (such as dirt, sand, etc) due to the wider tires.

either way: suggest to your friend that he try to buy a used bike from a bike shop to make sure he is properly fitted + to ensure that the bike is mechanically sound, that the frame is in good shape, etc.

I hope this helps!