Recommendations for a small touring bike

[happyscientist]

They're both reputable builders, but out of curiosity, why did you settle on those two builders? There are plenty of good builders out there, some of whom offer less expensive options. Are you leaning toward Ti for any given reason? Do you know enough about how you want the bike to fit and ride to articulate that to a builder?

I have gone around to several bike shops in the area (100 mile radius), and the ones that they have the most experience with. One of the shops deals with a variety of builders, including a local guy, but said the quality control was better with these two. One of the issues I have run into with premade bikes is that here in the Appalachians, the mountains just aren't that big, and the bikes are geared accordingly. However, I want to be able to ship the bike out to my family in WY and CO and ride in the Rockies, which would require different gearing.

I am still very early in the process. I would be thinking of buying in 2014 after doing some longer, supported tours. At this time, I have only done a couple overnighters. I also need to thoroughly pick the brains of the people I know who bike tour. By then, I should be able to fully articulate to the builder what I want.

[indysteel]

I have no bone to pick with wanting a custom bike, especially if you're finding it difficult to find a touring body for somebody your size, but I would mention that changing out the gearing on an off-the-rack bike isn't all that complicated and would be far cheaper than a custom bike. So, if gearing is the major sticking point, I think that issue is easily solved. Fit, however, is a stickier wicket.

[Blueberry]

I agree with Indy - I completely understand wanting to go custom. But I wouldn't do it because of gearing issues. Lots of tourers (Surly comes to mind) can be purchased as a frameset and built up with the components you choose.

I own a ti bike and I love it. I also own a custom folding bike. I'm not 100% sure I would re-purchase either, though. Just good for thought.