Originally Posted by moxfyre
How about my bike? I've never used it for touring before, but I want to try...
It's a Trek 720 Hybrid frame with 700x38 wheels, XT/LX derailers+shifters, Deore cranks, canti brakes. I already use it for commuting every day. The only thing is it's a bit heavy, and it has a mountain-type bar, meaning I am in a very upright position. I'm thinking everybody would probably recommend a drop bar for touring?
A little extra weight is no problem ... being a weight weenie is no place in touring, you will find you will lose more from your body after a week or two of touring. Reliablilty is more important though.
Flats or drops? that is a personal preference thing really ... I prefer flats with bar ends, others prefer drops ... its whatever spins your freewheel really.