Originally Posted by
Bacciagalupe
Specialized has now added an "Adventure Touring" section to its road bikes:
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bik...venturetouring
The Tricross has been around for awhile, languishing in Marketing Limbo as they're pushing the Crux as their cross bike.
The AWOL is new, and looks comparable to a Salsa Vaya. Steel frame and fork, mechanical disc brakes, 42c(!) cross tires stock.
Nice to see another major major manufacturer enter the touring niche. The AWOL isn't a bike that is going to appeal to the expedition level tourers nor will it make anyone who's personalized their current tourer into their version of "perfect" rush out and buy one. It should be a good choice for those who prefer light to medium level touring, commuting and a somewhat livelier handling bike than an expedition level tourer.
Brad