I think the main concern people have is not with C-Dale touring bikes, but aluminum touring bikes in general, which are very stiff. Steel and titanium are not nearly as stiff as aluminum, so over the course of a long day they are much more comfortable. Good luck, I'm in the process of deciding on a new touring rig as well. Have you taken a look at the REI brand Novara, they make a touring bike called the Randonee, which I think is a heck of a bike for the money.