I've found handling to be a bit better with some of the weight up front. But as long as I keep the load down to around 20 lbs. the handling is acceptable with all of it on the rear rack along with a few items in a handlebar bag and that's how I generally tour. Saves the added weight of a front rack and panniers and I don't have to always see the weight I'm carrying. Those advantages outweigh the slightly worse handling characteristics for me.