The LHT frame geometry is pretty much the same as the Riv. Atlantis. So if you can live without the lugs(except on the forks) i feel its a poor mans Atlantis. Oh and yes it rides like a Caddillac. Its kinda unassuming,so doesnt really attract unwanted attention theft wise etc. Even the graphics are removable,not cleared over. And it just rolls stable. Its a tank. Just handles and feels predictable when riding. And Surly are all steel, as someone has said already. Its an old school bike that rides and handles like my old bikes way back in the day did.
The other two mentioned below just dont feel the same.
Grant actually gives Kudos to the Surly LHT in some of his comments.
I think the Jamis is a nice bike,i hear they ride very well in steel,but it didnt quite have that look. Dont want brifters, too modernized for the look i like, and gearing not what i wanted etc.
Treks 520 is also up there but again just didnt feel the same when riding. Top tube too sloped for me. Dont want fancy paint (metallic)