The reason I chose the LHT is because Surly thought about most everything you might need (or Rivendell did) and it is less expensive bike than the Rivendell Atlantis which is very much the same in design. Surlys are tigged and Rivendell uses lugs etc. The Surlys have been likened to the thinking mans(persons) bike. I have ridden many bikes and some very nice ones. I find the LHT to be very fun and comfortable. I am familar with bikes and I think with a little research you will see why the LHT is one of the better touring frames on the market today. Can we say spoke holder? lol