I have never ridden a Volpe, but from everything I have seen and heard they are fantastic bikes. Don't think you will have any problems at all touring with it. I have never heard anything about the brake chatter from front rack and panniers. I buddy of mine just picked one up and posted it over in the C&V forum, where others sang the praises of the bikes comfort and all around capability. When I find an older one for a good deal I plan to buy it. I would say to use it and maybe try an overnighter or weekend trip to test the waters and see how you like its performance when loaded. My guess is that you will like it a lot!