There may other options; 1st; Before plopping down any money on a bike I think that you should try touring out first. Borrow a kids trailer, put some gear in it and try some over-nighters. I see way too many used touring bikes used on one tour, and then put up for sale on the local craigslist. (presumably at a decent loss) 2nd. Bikes direct occasionally puts the Windsor Tourist on sale for as low as $400. Also they have this nice dipped top tube (ez to mount) monster cross bike for $300. last I saw. 3rd Scope out your local craigslist for someone selling their touring bike. (I picked up a Windsor Tourist on craigslist that was my size and had been ridden around the block a few times, and they decided to sell it for $200.)