I dont make NEAR a six figure salary, but yet I can still enjoy touring. I don't have the most experience in the world, but ive been on a few short tours now, and have planned two long ones in the upcoming year. At first I was agreeing with some of your posts, but now its looks like you are just looking for an argument.

I'm a fresh college graduate, and so I dont have much money. Instead of going with a career in the field I majored in, I thought it would be a better experience to work as a park ranger, and make about $30,000 less than I would have. The thing is...I dont care, I'd rather have a fun job in the outdoors than sit behind a desk.

Touring isnt something for the rich, actually, I think it'd be the opposite on the big view. What got me into touring in the first place was not having enough money to buy a reliable car and pay for gas to see the places I want to see. I've rode an $150 '84 cannondale tourer for a long time now, its great bike, and i have no plans on buying a new bike. If I was given $1000 to spend on a bike, I wouldnt buy a new one, I'd spend some money on upgrading the ol' cannondale.

A tour only costs as much as you want it too, I'd rather spend money on touring equipment rather than a bike. I've spent probably $500 - $700 in UL camping gear / clothing, and my entire carry weight (including food and water) is only about 20lbs, so that cannondale works absolutely awesome for this type of touring.