Did some test riding today!

[Jolt]

Hey, for those of you who have Surly LHTs, do you find them a lot slower than a regular steel road bike? One has just shown up on Craigslist and I am wondering whether I should go look at it or if I would be happier sticking with a relaxed road/CX type bike as I have originally been focusing on. I'm looking for something that will be comfortable and efficient for rides up to 50 miles in a day and has clearance for somewhat wider tires than the typical 23-25s (with the option of fenders) but not be at a huge speed disadvantage in terms of keeping up with a group. I've been intrigued by the LHT but wonder if it would be too much of a tank (especially since I already have a heavy tank of a bike that I can carry a load on if needed but it's slow as all heck--a rigid MTB that I modified with trekking bars). Those who have ridden them, please advise. Thanks!

ETA: does anyone have any experience with the Jamis Bosanova? That looks like something else that might be good if it fits.