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.
mvallejo; If you were 5'2" or 350 pounds, I would agree that the wheel diameter is worth worrying about. But at 5'8" you are right in the sweet spot for all the common tire diameters, they are all going to work fine for you assuming you choose good tires and operate them well.
So pick a wheel diameter that tickles your fancy or pick the bike & brand first based on other criteria and don't worry about it one way or the other. Both the LHT and the CC make great touring bikes (LHT more so by a fair margin, but I would prefer the upright bars of the CC on the frame of the LHT) with the add of appropriate touring equipment (lighting, power sources, racks, bags, tent, rations, stove, etc.). Each of those pose interesting choices also.
BTW; I see LHT frames on Amazon in the sizes you note as NOT AVAILABLE. And the main site for Surly shows LHT in 26" wheels from 42–62cm frame sizes, and with 700c wheels in 56–64cm. So you LBS could order in what you need or you can go it alone and do some credit card shopping on the net.
/K