Hi All, This has turned out to be a really good thread for the experianced road rider new to touring and a touring frame. If anyone wants I'll shoot a pic of the two bikes side-by-side. While I still have so much to learn, here's what I think are major points I've picked up so far...

1. My initial instinct to set the T frame as similar as possible to the road frame I'm comfortable with was correct.
2. The slacker seat tube is likely designed to transmit a little less road shock.
3. The slacker head tube is simply for stability, primarily when loaded. Ditto for the chain stay length.
4. Because of the taller tires it may be wiser to get a T frame slightly smaller than a road frame if stand over clearance is important. That may cause further discussion.
5. I feel like with traction I could go vertical using the 22T-30T granny... I'm easily amused.

Brad