Do you suppose the original poster is still checking this thread for responses after 13 years? ... Regardless, I am a roadie and hate mountain bikes. However, if I was riding in an area with lots of dirt roads and trails, I could see the appeal of a mountain bike for touring. Even then, I would want a mtn bike with drop bars and slick tires. I hate flat bars, particularly on windy days, and knobby tires just slow you down unless you need the treads for mud.