Yes, it has a front shock, but I can lock it out. I could also swap out the fork. So if I get a new fork, new tires, new handlebars, fenders and probably a new seat cuz I love the brooks on my roadie...I am talking about $400. Now, for about $1200 I can just pick up an entry level touring bike. That is a pretty big difference.

I am still calling around to find some bikes to try out. I called one place and he tried to talk me out of a touring bike. He goes, "they are heavy and everyone is going with hybreds nowdays. You won't like that road type handlebar. Besides, they are expensive"!!! LMBO I was asking about an $1100 bike,not a custom seven!!!