Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
Likes: 317
From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
There is a fuzzy overlap between recreational Cyclocross bikes and Touring bikes.
Cyclocross bikes normally have 425mm long chainstays and higher BB location for better chainring clearance. Touring bikes have longer chainstays and lower BB's for better loaded handling and increased heel-strike clearance around the rear panniers.
Considering that you want disc brakes, consider the Soma Double Cross, Salsa Vaya and Surly Long Haul Trucker.
The Vaya and Long Haul Trucker will take 700x40-45 (depending on tire model) tires and fenders while the Soma will limit you to 700x35-37 tires with fenders.
If I was traveling with a 10 pound load, I would take the Soma. If the load was greater, I would take a Salsa Vaya or Surly Long Haul Trucker.
I would select a Triple crankset and drivetrain in either case.
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When I ride my bike I feel free and happy and strong. I'm liberated from the usual nonsense of day to day life. Solid, dependable, silent, my bike is my horse, my fighter jet, my island, my friend. Together we will conquer that hill and thereafter the world.
Last edited by Barrettscv; 03-18-12 at 02:27 PM.