Ok, so you've seen my other threads, I (was) going cross country now California. I did not win the auction on the bike I wanted (the sellers reserve was too high). So I still need a bike. I have not had any luck on craigslist. So I could use some help picking a bike. The lbs has no touring bikes. I have been to four. I wanted to stay under $1000, but I could go a few hundred dollars over. I was thinking about avoiding sora/2300 shifters because I have heard a lot of stuff about how difficult it makes life.

The bikes I am looking at (sorry no hyperlinks- this is from my ipod):

http://www.bianchiusa.com/bikes/road...rone-7-tiagra/ around 1200

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/tourist.htm. That is only 600.
Also the more traditional trek 520, surly long haul trucker, and rei novara safari. Which has very interesting handlebars by the way.

Also, will it be neccessary to upgrade the seat? I saw a lot about how brooks b17 saddles are the best. The bike i was bidding on had one