Upgrade for Light Touring?
Heya folks. Fairly new rider here. Right now I own a Kona Dew FS (link) which I'm riding to get in shape, have some fun, pick up the groceries, etc. I'd like to graduate to a long commute (about 20 km) and, in the future, light touring. By light touring I mean charity rides throughout Alberta and perhaps the Rockies, things like that. Amount of gear carried could range from none to a small tent and food.

So my main dilemma is whether a new bike would be a significant upgrade for my purposes, and if so, whether a touring bike or an appropriate cyclocross bike would be the best choice.

On to my questions that I would be very appreciative if you could help with:

1. Will a touring/cyclocross bike give a significant speed advantage during my commute over my current hybrid assuming the tires stay the same?

Not much. You'll get a little speed advantage if you ride a bike with drop bars because of the better aerodynamics. Is that worth the cost of a new bike? I don't know.

1a. If they're not a major upgrade in terms of weight/speed, are there any modifications I can make to my Dew FS for faster riding?

I'd put on some narrow, slick tires and call it good.

2. Is a cyclocross bike that can handle panniers a better choice than a touring bike for light touring and my commute (that is, will it go faster)?

I don't think so. There's not that much difference, and you'd have the same motor.

As a point of reference, here's the bikes I'm looking at:

Touring - Surly LHT, Rocky Mountain Sherpa 30, Trek 520, Cannondale Touring 2

From what I've read, these are all excellent choices. I have the Surly and can attest that it's a very competent tourer. I've had no trouble and I love mine.


Cyclocross - Specialized Tricross Triple, Opus Sentiero, Surly Cross Check

I know nothing, so no comment.

If I were you I'd keep riding the Kona for commuting - maybe put some faster tires on it. If I was going to try "light touring" I'd do it on the Kona. It should be fairly easy to make it work. You can tour on just about anything. If you decide you really like touring and want to go on some longer, self-supported tours, then consider buying one of the tourers on your list. But that's me. I have no experience with a cyclocross bike - I'm a tourer and that's what I'm interested in. Others would have more to contribute on that subject.

Thanks much for any and all help.

You're welcome.