Originally Posted by
reppans
-See if you can load all your gear in panniers and fit it on the bike with enough clearance to pedal and lean/turn. Folders with their low rear racks are limited horizontal due to heel strike, and vertically for ground clearance (esp cornering)... you may need to consider a rack-top "trunk". Riding while wearing a backpack get old fast, although there is the option of mounting large backpacks vertically on rear racks with the shoulder straps hooked on a dowel attached to the seat.
I wouldn't have a problem touring on my P8 if it had a good fender/rack/pannier set-up - it's perfectly capable. I don't know the other models, but I would assume that they're more or less going to be about the same, and you're really just looking at slight differences in components, trim, and styling.
After seeing one today (finally) I checked what you mentioned. We played with the rack and panniers and
unloaded they weren't going to strike the heel. I don't think they'll expand frontways in a significant manner but if I go that route then I'll bring gear to the shop to see if it works. But you know....they're close to the ground and a hundred dollars a bag. That just seems like wasting money.
I much much much like the idea better of just having a "trunk" as you put it. I can't quite fit all my stuff into my backpack and my rucksack is too big. But if I can a midsize bag then I'd really prefer it.
My goal is minimal without being stupid. Two changes of everything except socks and underwear, jeans, bathing suit, long sleeved shirt and toiletries. Apart from a few spare bike parts that's about it. All electronics in front bag, and that just means phone, kindle, and chargers/cables.