Originally Posted by Old_Fart
The main reasons I went with a XC instead of the LHT were that I don't carry more than what fits in a pair of mid-sized panniers and I wanted just a tad more sporty geometry. I use mine for commuting (38 mile round trip) and weekend rides. I'm a clyde at 6' 275lbs and the bike is holding up great with good 36 spoke wheels and 700x35 tires for a bit of cush in the ride.
But for a coupla details, that's my story. I actually went with x28 tires to limit rolling resistance. I've always ridden touring geometry... I have an oversized steel Nishiki Seral with a wheelbase out over 109. It's been a great ride, but for the new bike, I wanted a more sporty geometry.
I ended up picking up a second XC Complete as a backup cuz I got a price I couldn't refuse... I would have rebuilt the Nishiki but for the fact that it really is just too big.