Hail Bike Council,
I recently wrote a post that waxed a bit on over my waffling between various touring options, but I feel like I've narrowed it down and wanted to get some opinions from those who have read, or have heard, or have seen, things myriad and relevant to critique or support for either frame!
As the title states I'm down to these two bad boys:
Kona Sutra - https://www.konaworld.com/products/sutra
Very solid, well liked, reliable touring build! Brooks saddle (more comfortable than any saddle i own not even broken in), front rack, fenders, great tires, kajillion mounts, and Discs. I've also test ridden it, and it felt really, really great. In fact, the only thing kind of holding me back is aesthetics. The blue and the brown are definitely tasteful, but the following option has drawn my eye in a vanity sense over the sutra. The thing with the Sutra though, again, is I've ridden it and it felt great. The things that come with it are great, and it's history cannot be discounted. I'm leaning toward it simply because it's available locally, I know it felt good, and it's regarded as a great bike for exactly what I'm trying to do.
Temple Bikes Adventure Disc 3 - https://www.templecycles.co.uk/produ...venture-disc-3
I didn't come across this one until late in my bike search, but wowieee is it a beautiful build. They're built in England, and I live in the States, so I have not test-ridden it. I could buy it, ride it, and send it back if I didn't like it, but that is an involved process, and the history of positive experiences and rave reviews for the Sutra make me feel like I should pass on the import and go with what I know feels great right now. That's not to say, however, that the Temple bike isn't well regarded. The reviews for it are great (and all Temples it seems). It has components on par with or better than the Sutra, and I really like the more-classic look of the bike. However, I think the riding position is a bit more aggressive, although that can be compensated for, naturally.
Alright, lay your opinions on me, I welcome them with open arms. Bless you and may you have clear skies and strong tailwinds.