I think you all are right. I am probably better served going to a dedicated touring platform. It will take a lot of money to convert this guy and still have to deal with the limitations. Sigh, really like the look of this bike. thePic was taken at time of purchase, saddle tilt has since been corrected. Regrettably I did not get it for cheap. I was really into C&V then and paid 275$.....
What is the bad thing about using the DT axis wheel? what are some popular touring wheel build?
As to the bikes I mentioned, it is for rather whimsical reasons:
Windsor tourist and Gran Turismo: my Miyata looks soo much better.
LHT: Same. and somehow I just cannot bring myself to like surly bikes.
Trek 520: fine bike, but I do not really want a trek. My miyata still looks better.
Soma Saga seems like a nice frame.