Originally Posted by
rccardr
I'm among those who prefer the mid-late 80's Cannondale ST based touring bikes- the ones with the steel Tange forks...
Somewhere else in this C&V forum there was a recent posting from a guy looking to sell some larger Cannondale ST's. If it were me, I'd contact him.
Doctor's orders; You know what to do [MENTION=441377]rperkins146[/MENTION].
Joking aside, I'm 100% with the good Doctor on this one. Assuming a frame size appropriate for a guy your height and weight, with 30lbs of junk riding on the racks, you're going to appreciate the notably better stiffness of a Cannondale ST. Also the fact that it's actually a bit lighter than a similar size Cro-mo bike. And
quite a bit lighter than a LHT that will fit you. These old Cannondales aren't hard to find; I snagged mine for a bargain $100 including that sweet Brooks Pro on there
cf: my 1990 Cdale ST600 in the 25" frame size: Stepping down to the 700c (from the 27") rim size allows for enough room to pack in beefy 35mm tires - with fenders. Could go up to 40 or 42mm without the fenders. As shown, it's set to fit me (6' 0" 33" inseam, longish arms) The only fit item I might change some day is a stem about an inch shorter.
My other Tourer is decidedly old-school. Peugeot Vagabond with a shorter wheelbase, heavier and slightly flexier Mangalloy steel tubing. Another great bike, but a bit of an anachronism compared to the Cdale, perhaps more of a "sport-tourer not quite up to carrying the same load as the newer aluminum bike. A very nice ride, though.
