RobE30

I'm planning on doing some long (>60 miles) trips this summer by bike (perhaps some overnight) and I was curious which bike would be best. I know that this question could also be posted in the touring section, BUT you guys know "vintage" bikes best, so I thought I'd start here. Here's my list of candidates; 1) early 70's Pug U-08 (soon to have better components, cranks, d/rs wheelset etc) w/ front and rear fenders and a rear rack, 2) early 80's Ross Super Gran Tour w/ orig shimano 600 group, early 80's Raleigh Grand Prix (soon to be mine, thanks E) or my Christmas present a 2009 Specialized Rockhopper w/ a lockout for the front fork. The first 2 bikes have no braze ons for any accessories (not a huge deal), the Raleigh has one set and the Specialized has 2 sets for bottles and a set for a rear rack. All the bikes are comfortable to ride but my main concern is possibility of the frames cracking over time on the road. I believe that the first 2 are hi-ten steel (might be wrong) and I hear all the grumbling over that. So, whadya say?

KonAaron Snake 

Unless the frames are in rough shape and have substantial rust, dents, dings or damage, I don't think you'd need to worry about any of those frames cracking. The issue with high tensile steel is weight, not durability. As far as which is best, I'd probably look at the issue as which bike fits you best and which you're most comfortable on. The rockhopper is probably going to be your slowest and heaviest...it would probably be my last choice for a longer ride. On the other side, it likely has a triple front...which becomes quite nice for heavy touring on hills. With just one night, you're probably not going to be that laden down with gear, and could probably even get away with a backpack.

miamijim

Rockhooper w/ the fork locked out and some type of semi-slick tire. I run Continentals on my 'road' mtb wheels.

EjustE

The Rockhopper is aluminum, correct? I would suggest riding all bikes for a while and see how they do for a 20 mile ride. If you feel good on a 20-30 miles, chances are that you would feel good for a 60 miler or overnight.

I cannot see frame strength being an issue (other with the MTB, if it is aluminum) since they are not ultra light frames.

On the other hand, I might know someone who could lend you his long distance bike with 21 gears, which can accept a full load of bags, if it fits you and there is no time conflict

cycleheimer

If they are in good mechanical shape (wheels are "true", gears and brakes...including pads..."on the money"), and they fit you properly, you could probably go cross country on any of them. There are bikes that will give you a better riding experience of course, and you can find examples of better lifestyles on that "lifestyles of the rich and famous" TV show. Like it has been said, give them a try and see how you like riding them for 20 or 30 miles plus. If something better pops up free or inexpensively, go for it. 60+ miles (to about 100?) is a nice distance and not that "wild and crazy". If you are out riding, and having a good time with it...that's what it is all about.

Look around this website, it is packed with relevant information and ideas (one of my favorites...after BF of course):

https://www.adventurecycling.org/

RobE30

^cool website. Thanks for the replies. I guess I need to put some more time in the saddle with my "fleet" before I can make a decision. And E, we need to talk, over coffee and while exchanging a set of 700c wheels (for the Pug, at this point).

USAZorro

The early 80's GP is a pretty sweet bike. I'd lean towards that, or the Rockhopper fitted as miamijim suggests.