Certainly an option -- I'm probably ordering one shortly. My only bike is a conventional alum. framed xc mtb, modified to work well on mixed surfaces and used for fast commuting (all weather), shopping, fitness rides, and shortish (so far!) tours; hence my interest in this subject -- looking for the ideal frame (that I can afford!). The only NA frame I know of (custom is out of reach for me) is the Gunnar RockTour, but even that is a little more than I'd want to pay. As you say, touring-oriented mtbs (and bikes based on that concept) are much more popular in Europe than here, where the paradigm is more the traditional, pavement-oriented, drop-bar 700c tourer. I've found through experience that I'm most at home on a conventional 26" wheeled mtb, for how and where I like to ride, so will stay with that. Good luck with your search!