thank you,everyone, for your input. this has been quite informative. i've always seen this discussion as more of a steel vs aluminum issue, rather than an issue about canondale bikes. i just mentioned the c-dale bikes specifically b/c they are the only aluminum touring bikes i'm at all familiar with...

i dont think i'll have a problem putting miles on an aluminum frame bike from a comfort standpoint, as i already to that on my current ride, and comfort isnt really an issue. i was worried more about whether or not it can handle a load, and y'all have set those worries aside for me.

so now, i have to think more about specs and my needs, and of course i gotta test-ride the bikes. the info you have all provided me with will help me a lot in the decision, but if anyone else wants to add their $.02, i'm all ears!

thanks again,
-rob