Surly's LHT is a little more touring oriented than I would like. The Cross Check or Pacer are more of interest to me.
Also, the earlier mentioned Salsa Casseroll (light touring/modest off road) has perked my interest.
After I make a list of the handful of bikes I am interested in, then I will attempt to find as many as possible to ride. The Seattle area should be a pretty good place for tracking down the bikes of my interest.
Although my choice of frame material is steel, can someone explain to me the differences in the types of steel that are offered? For instance, what are the differences in Reynolds 520, 631, 4130, etc.?