I just built up ^^^ this Straggler to replace my LHT as a commuter.
I mostly tour on a MTB these days, but my rear hub can be converted to a geared setup for an easy 1x for light touring.
Over the years I've been touring with a bike it's become abundantly clear to me that light is right for me and heavy does nothing for me so I don't see any problem loading this bike up for a week+ of touring should a road tour appeal to me.
Most definitely.
Gorgeous. What chainring is that?