mstateglfr:
Yeah, much of what I described is simply what I have and not, perhaps, what I'd buy if I had the money.

mdilthey's rig is closer to what I might build; those very big tires would make a huge difference in comfort and go a long way toward compensating for lack of suspension. I wouldn't need a trailer then either.

My general point & where I think touring is headed is that travelers are seeking more comfort and less race worthiness. Check what the Europeans are doing; they are way ahead of us in this regard.

Joe