Originally Posted by
LeeG
ANY bike loaded down is heavy and cumbersome. The 520 is better for heavier loads. The CrossCheck can take wider tires and will need a few changes for lower gears. It kind of depends on your weight as well. The size and pressure in the tires along with the weight of all the stuff on your bike will be a bigger factor than whether it's a 520 or CrossCheck. If you're closer to 250lbs than 150lbs I'd go for the 520.
"Not sure if it can handle the touring load"- that depends entirely on the size of your touring load and how it's distributed. For me and my middle aged weight (220lbs) the CrossCheck cannot handle a 25lb load sitting entirely on the rear rack. At least according to how I like a bike to handle. But if I move half that weight onto the front wheel it's great.
For heavy loads or heavy rear wheel loaded weight I much rather ride a 26" wheeled LHT.
Thank you Lee, this is all very helpful. To clarify a bit....
I am 5'8 and weight 145 lbs. I plan to do tours probably averaging around 500. I do not plan on doing credit card tours, and plan to bring a small tent, a few pieces of clothing, some light cooking gear, tools, and a little bit of food (i will have some money to buy food to cook or eat occasionally). I was originally looking at the LHT when I went to the bike shop, but the fact that it is not offered in my size (52 or 54) with 700c wheels turned me off. I plan to use it also as a commuter and regular town bike, so I'd really like the 700c wheels. The rep at the shop told me the cross-check can work for touring as well, so I decided to do my research and ask about it.
I am really leaning towards the cross check, and I'd think my smaller stature would allow the bike to carry more, I just wanted to get some thoughts first and make sure it can still handle the job. I was also really considering the 520, but the additional $ spent really makes me want to get the CrossCheck to work for me.
Thanks again.