I prefer a slightly smaller frame for off road riding and the 2 mtb's that I use for road and touring use are the same frame size as my road bike and are similarly equipped with drop bars and trekking bars.

That d back looks really sharp and the set up looks correct... if the 42:11 has you spinning too much you can increase the outer chain ring to a larger one... you can't do this with the low end crank on the Schwinn.

My expedition bike runs a wider gearing with a 28/38/50 and an 11-34 8 speed but will soon be running a 7 speed with a half step gearing... those higher top gears are for fast descents or days when I have a 40km tailwind and are not for cruising.