Originally Posted by cyccommute
Having to fix anything worn out is one of the reasons I wouldn't suggest going with a used bike. Replacing parts can quickly eat into his $1000 budget. Plus we don't know his level of mechanical expertise nor his knowledge level concerning touring bikes. Assessing whether or not a used bike is sound or whether it would make a good touring bike is not trivial.
To tboneloser22: You've got time. Do some research about touring bikes. Not every bike out there makes for a good touring bike. Go to
http://www.bicycletouring101.com/ or
http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/?o=as as well as other sites and read, read, read!
Having to replace worn out parts is part of the point of going used. Bike parts wear out. It's better to learn how to replace them and what the signs are long before ever hitting the road.
Yes, it takes some research and some time to learn what a good deal and fit are so it won't be a good idea for anyone needing instant gratification. OTOH, is self-contained touring a good idea for the impatient anyway?