Originally Posted by mvallejo

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.