I looked into touring a bit and it doesn't really seem to mesh with what I'm looking for, we intend for this to be a serious test of endurance, finishing as quickly as we possibly can. If we could only do 60 miles a day, we'd have to cancel the ride. That said, I'm more concerned with the physical aspects of this and what people in this forum think about training and bike choice, I can read about how to camp and pack in the touring forum I think.

I know that we will not be staying in hotels - we're poor college students. Probably camping. I plan on taking only some ultralight backpacking gear that I have, a thermarest neoair, some microfiber clothes, and basic necessities - since it will be very hot it is easy to pack light. This is also why I don't want a heavy true touring bike, I'd like something meant to be fast but comfortable.

Thanks for your help.