No, I would say the mechanic is not a distance rider. He just planted the seed of doubt regarding using the Rawland. Yes, my failed attempt was on the same Rawland. I should add, I was also way over packed o the first attempt. Man I brought so much stuff with me on that first attempt, unnecessary stuff for that distance. But, I do remember seeing a number of riders with aggressive vintage steel bikes, Pinnerellos and Colnagos etc. I think the Rowland's right though. Which bike do I want to spend 10 hours on? I think it's the Rawland, with comfort the driving factor.