Originally Posted by
carbomb
Would this perhaps be a role best suited to a MTB re-purposed to a touring rig? I only know my Surly and my early 80's Cresta so please keep that in mind. I'm comparing an early 80's noodle and something rather modern with oversized tubes.
Good point. Vintage touring bikes were built pretty light compared to now, especially at the high end. Essentially, the better 80s ones were like a slightly heavy duty race bike with more laid back angles.
If the budget can take it, SOMA and VO both offer a variety of modern heavy duty off roadable touring frames in the $500 ish range. They'd be a bit more rugged for hauling a kid.