Thanks everybody! I really appreciate all of your thoughts on this.

I've been riding my Sirrus and thinking about all your comments. I pretty much agree that this isn't the bike for a long distance tour. The front fork, wheels, and gearing are just part of it.

I don't want to worry about the bike the whole time and would rather ride something that's designed to carry 30ish pounds for a long haul. I want the option to take more if I want, without worrying about the bike.

So the training continues as I shop for that next bike. Fun!

Thanks again!