My mountain bike is a great riding bike, and would be fine for the trip. However, I would not be comfortable with the flat handlebars, would have to buy mud guards, rack, probably a generator, and so on.
I really like the 520, and I bought it for touring purposes, so maybe I'll just have to suck up the ride on the Dempster Highway. Quit complaining. I should remember that I am lucky to be able to go touring, and not have a job that I have to go to! Count my blessings. Thanks for the contributions guys!