The modulation of hydraulic discs is just incredible and the levers work so smooth! I have them on my Specialized Epic and never had a single issue after using them for 6 years in really rough terrain. I understand it is different wear and tear on brakes of touring bikes. I agree that hydraulics are overkill for most touring situations though. I'll be finally upgrading my 30-year old touring bike this spring with a new Rodriguez UTB. I've decided to build it with Avid mechanicals BB7, but the frame will be ready to support cantis or V brakes if I change my mind or prefer to run a combination of brake styles.