We've had our LHTs for a little while now and love them.

We took to heart what we had read somewhere: on a touring bike you will rarely or never wish you had higher gears but you'll frequently find yourself wishing you had lower gears. We had the Surly stock rings (48-36-26) swapped out for 46-34-24 (which our LBS did for free during the build and set-up).

We love our bikes! The ride is very smooth and solid. Won't be breaking any land-speed records, though.

I don't think you can go wrong with this bike.