After several years of riding a "hybrid" (old MTB frame with modified gears, tires, handlebars, etc.), I've decided to get more of a touring- or cross-type bike. (I've been pretty happy with hybrids, but it seems they're a bit limited.) Racing-type bikes are little more than toys, and do not interest me. I've settled on two bikes- Surly LHT and Bianchi Volpe. They're both moderately priced (a bit less than $1000), have good-but-not-great components, they're a bit on the heavy side (especially the LHT), but very solid and able to carry loads. I want to use the bike for touring very occasionally, but mostly for commuting, groceries, beer runs, etc. (I don't have a car). My question is simple: which one is better? (I'm leaning towards the LHT, but wanted to know what others thought before I plunk down $1000 for a bike...)

Mmmm... I think the best thing to do would be to ride both and see which one you like better.

I personally prefer the LHT. The wheels are made with slightly better component and in my opinion, wheels are one, if not the critical component for a strong utility bike.

But really... Go ride them before you decide.

HTH.

Looking at Bianchi's website, I see a noticeable lack of eyelets compared to the LHT. Single eyelets on the front and rear dropouts, and no lowrider bosses. For my personal taste in a commuter/utility bike, that alone would rule out the Volpe.

I'm leaning towards the LHT

Me, too.

I went ahead and got the LHT. Both bikes were pretty nice, but, like you said, the Volpe didn't have enough eyelets, and the LHT has components I liked, like gears that can go from indexed to friction, and better brakes. It was also more comfortable to ride. The LHT is really heavy, though, about as heavy as the old MTB I've been riding. I find all that steel reassuring, though. :) It's not fast, but I think it will prove to be a perfect utility bike.

BTW, when did middle of the road, good-but-not-fabulous bikes start costing $1000!?