Originally Posted by Bekologist
I think you're interested in a full bore, long chainstayed touring bike with front rack midforks, and are asking if this traditional touring bike will hold you back while unloaded, and my opinion is NO.
Very true.
I agree, the benefits of the right touring bike will be a big advantage when loaded, but not a big liability when it's uloaded and you want to blast around. To me the true touring bike is the winner, even if it is 26-27 lbs.