Originally Posted by
TiHabanero
Two serious disadvantages to the bent format as a tourer. Climbing and visibility to automobiles.
None of the LWB bikes that Aushiker posted are particularly low, his head would be about the same height as a DF rider in the drops (except that he'll have an easier time seeing what's around him). So the actually being seen is pretty much a break-even affair. But 'bents are uncommon enough that they are spotted much more easily by most drivers compared to
regular bikes. So the visibility thing isn't a problem at all.
Second, the climbing thing is mostly a myth as well. The real issue is that on the flats, being in a more aerodynamic position means that it takes less power to go the same speed as a DF bike, so a weaker 'bent rider can keep up with a stronger DF rider. Climbing a hill, aero becomes a lot less important, and a weaker rider climbs more slowly. People who are strong 'bent riders can climb hills just fine. (Having a stiff efficient drive train is important and there are some 'bents where this isn't the case, but the bikes the OP selected should be fine).
I'll agree that test rides are a good idea. So we don't disagree about everything.