If you're looking for a bike with midfork eyelets stock you've only got a couple small handfuls of choices; the cheap touring bikes (520, Fuji world Jamis thingie), the full bore touring bikes (kicking down for a custom, or ordering from overseas) or a frame you build up yourself. For a frameset with midfork eyelets the LHT is great, makes an absolutely great bike.

What are you concerned about that you could NOT do on an unloaded touring bike is my question?

Strike full-kit roadie poses at the senic overlooks?