It is a bent metal bar for Pete's sake. I doubt a "quality" bar is going to be any better than the $25 Nashbar bars which are excellent.

As far as an affordable touring bicycle, take a look at the Jamis Aurora. You should be able to get into one for around $1000 US. Less if you don't want upgrades but IMHO the Aurora is geared too high for a touring bike. I was able to get the bike shop to swap out most components one for one but one or two I had to purchase out right.

BTW I have a FX with trekking bars and I really hate it. I now ride my Aurora on tours and on local trails. He might want to ride a couple of hundred miles with the bars before setting out on his tour.