Like most people here, I think that touring doesn't require shifting as frequently as fast light riding. But if you like brifters, use 'em. I changed the bar ends to thumbies on mine because I would bump the bar ends with my knee when I got out of the saddle.
I used to have an LHT and really liked it, but when I had some "extra" money I upgraded the frame to a Rivendell Hunqapillar and am a lot happier with the handling.

Marc