Sounds like you want less racy than the Trek but not as truck-like as a full tourer. You might like the Gunnar Sport. Gunnar Sport ? Long distance riding in comfort from Gunnar Cycles USA It uses caliper brakes (a big plus IMO) and can take a 32mm tire, maybe some bigger. No funky press fit bottom bracket either. You can pick your color. Most important, you can gear it any way you like.