I understand the sentiment that just about any bike that you might travel on can be a "touring bike" in one sense of the word, and I agree with it. I may finally be building up a bike using a "touring frame" in the next month or two, but I would have just as gladly toured/overnighted/bike camped using my current hybrid frame.

That being said, I have a bookmark on my computer for all bike listings on the local CL page that contain the word touring. Today, I saw this:

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/n...953437562.html

<SNIP>Huffy Santa Fe Cruiser . Ladies 26 inch . Beautiful - $80

Excellent condition. No visible tire wear.

Comfortable, touring / beach bike. </SNIP>

This is NOT a touring bike. Why do so many people post bikes like this and refer to them in some way as a "touring bike"? I just don't get it.