Here in DC I couldn't really find any stores with touring bikes other than the Trek. I probably should have checked out Mt. Airy bikes, but it's hard for me to get out of the city. I did planty of online research, found a store that at least had some helpful/attentive folks (Revolution in G'town for me) and tried to ride some bikes with similar frame sizes. I probably paid a bit too much, but since the other places I checked out sort of blew me off, I was happy to get some more detailed fitting & advice.

I've been very happy with my Surly LHT as a daily commuter & short touring (long tours will come when I quit my job) bike. Just my experience. I'm pretty average height/weight/shape FYI.