I have been reading online, visiting local bike shops and talking with people about the bike(s) my son and I should get for our ride.

I need to and will be making my final decision in the next 2 weeks and would like your thoughts.

The three "finalists" are:

1. Trek 520
2. Novara Safari
3. Surly Long Haul Trucker

I thought I had decided on the Trek 520 but keep looking at the others thinking they may be the better option.

The Novara Safari is the most affordable, plus I would get about $90.00 back per bike with the REI rebate program.

One local dealer has last year's model of the Trek 520 in my size on sale for $1,000 (regularly $1,200)

Then there is the Surly LHT that everyone I have spoken to loves!

One other "kink" is the frame size. My son is about 4'10" and I'm not sure the smallest frame choices in any of these models would work.

Again, my son is 13 and we are both new to long mile touring.

All suggestions welcomed and appreciated!