After lots of trying-out of everything from LHT to Co-Motion bikes, I just purchased a rootbeer 520. Best fit for the money, and best value. I think the real difference between it and the LHT may be minor, but how a specific size configuration fits you may make a bigger difference. The 520 fit me better than the corresponding LHT, but I hear tell, there are people who have the opposite experience.

The 520 is much less responsive than my Trek 1.2, but is easier to ride and for the long stretches, just drives itself. I haven't done a loaded tour, but I do my farmers market and grocery shopping using rear "grocery" panniers, and with 20lbs or so, it got steadier on both up and downhills.

Happy Camper