I figured that I'm not really looking for a performance bike, so I might well enjoy all the LHT perks. I had fun with so many different bikes over the years that I find it hard to believe that I can't also have fun with a stable and "boring" LHT. I remembered that the best handling bike I ever had was quite long and low (Singular Swift), traits to be found on a LHT. Also, I prefer the bike to cheer me up where it really makes a difference, far from home and loaded, than on the daily small stuff (where the CC would shine).

Due to some professional changes over the last couple of weeks, a South America tour became possible over the short/mid term. That's what's keeping between 26" and 700c