Touring - Close to deciding between Surly Pacer or Jamis Aurora(2009)....

Today, I test rode both the Surly Pacer and the Jamis Aurora(2009 model) both in my correct
sizes, I loved the feel of both of them and just cant decide!

I am seeking rode comfort and smoothness for long day rides.

The Aurora seems to have the slighter better Shimano components, which bike has the better
quality frame and will be more durable over the long haul??

My riding is casual to moderate weekend group and solo rides, charity rides of 25, 50 miles.

Thanks!!

Also, I may look at the Salsa Casseroll double, but im thinking its gonna by the same as the Pacer in feel.

I LOVE my Surly Pacer and would totally use it as a short distance Randonneur but probably not anything longer than three or four days unless credit card touring. I use a LHT for my multi week fully loaded tours.

Whats "credit card" touring??

Whats "credit card" touring??

You stay in hotels instead of camping,thats what the credit card is for.

They are quite different bikes. Either one would do the job for you. The Jamis is more of a full-on touring bike, with the pacer being a step or 2 closer to a traditional road bike.

The Jamis shows to have 631 tubing, which is a step up from the 4130 Surly. They are going to be build differently, and there's a chance the Pacer will ride better if both are compared unloaded. The Jamis should be a stronger frame but I'm sure not worried about my Pacer giving out from under me anytime soon.

Love my pacer. If you get one, change out the tires. I was averaging a puncture flat on every 3rd ride with the stock Conti Ultra Sports.

Oh, I rode a casserole a year or two ago. My size had massive toe overlap (53 in their sizing, I believe...I'm 5'10". I never gave it a fair shake past that.

Two completely different bikes. The Pacer is more of a sporty road bike, whereas the Aurora is a touring bike. If you're not going to be doing long, loaded touring, then the Pacer will be the best choice between the two.