Yes yes, this thread again. Now bare with me here.
Working at a bicycle shop I have the opportunity of a lifetime. I have the ability to purchase these two bike brands at a LARGE discounted price. I have NEVER ridden a tour before but my daily commuter is a steel steed. I have a vision for bicycling around the world but not sure when I'll visit remote corners of the world. I would like to start out by visiting the other parts of the USA that I haven't yet; as I have only lived on the east coast my entire life. Then I'll move on to Europe and after that it's a toss up. Eventually I'd like to visit less fortunate - poor if you will - countries but this may be in ten years for all I know. In the meantime I'll be spending hard earned money to upgrade and modify the bike with better wheels (dynamos) and other custom parts.

I'll be using this touring bike as my daily commuter, long distance steed, and of course my touring bicycle to take me wherever my legs will carry me.

If given the opportunity between a new (2019) Trek 520 or the Surly Trucker Disc in 26". which would you choose as your FIRST touring bike?

Trek 520 ~$700
Surly TD ~$850