Help me decide: Crosscheck, Long Haul Trucker, Cassaroll

[Jewell]

I have a surly cross-check, but my first love was the long haul trucker. The only reason I got the cross-check is because I couldn't get the 700cc wheels on a 50cm long haul, but could get them on a cross-check. If you don't have to worry about the size issue, I'd recommend the long haul. Its got a smooth, steady ride on the road, the cross-check is more nimble which for me translates into less stable ride.

[lisacohen]

The only reason I got the cross-check is because I couldn't get the 700cc wheels on a 50cm long haul, but could get them on a cross-check. If you don't have to worry about the size issue, I'd recommend the long haul. Its got a smooth, steady ride on the road, the cross-check is more nimble which for me translates into less stable ride.

That's the same reason I'm leaning against the LHT but I fell in love immediately upon riding it! So we seem to have similar tastes! :-)

[Flatlander]

I have a Casseroll that I built up for commuting and I've been very happy with it. It's both nimble and tough.

[canonsue]

I have a LHT. If you are a small person like me, (5'3"), the smallest Cross-check may be too large. I wanted a bike I could ride on any surface, paved or gravel. The LHT fit the bill. As far as the 26" wheels, I am glad that I have them. I have many choices as far as tire width and tread. Also, the LHT complete bike has some very good components for the price.

After doing some research, it seems that some people with touring bikes who have the 700cm wheel will go to great lengths to put on the 26" wheel. The small wheel is stronger for heavy loads and more available in third world countries.

If you are a taller person with more choices on frame size, then any that you mentioned may be the ticket for you. All three that you mention are great bikes. The only other bikes you might think about is the Novara brand (REI), but I think if you can test ride the ones you mentioned and like the ride, Surly or Salsa will give you great value.

[Biciclista]

Don't buy a bike that's too big for you, you'll be miserable later.

[Geonz]

If you want a bicycle that can do anything, my vote would be to put an xtracycle on the mountain bike. It's still nimble and can still do a trailer if kids sitting on the back discomfits you.
do a google image search on xtracycle for a treat - and redefine normal if you can

[Geonz]

Oh, and of course, the Big DUmmy -- the electric motor on this one is optional...
http://www.surlybikes.com/2007_07_01_blog_archive.html