Okay it has taken some time to make progress, but here it is thus far. I purchased a Rodeo Labs Spork with the two holes for mounting racks (as opposed to the three holes), as it saved $100 and I don't see myself needing the three (I don't care for the little bottle holders and baby panniers). I had to have another caliper installed (another Sram), as the existing one did not line up. I could have run an adapter, but this new caliper fits better and looks/operates perfectly. I went to a 15mm thru axle and away from the quick release. I had Rodeo pre-install eyelets for connecting a rack or fenders down near the axle (as I will likely run fenders). The offset went from 43mm to 50mm and after two 25 mile rides I determine it is very nice. I cannot tell much difference in ride quality between the old vs. the new (still feels very stable).

The next step is to decide which front rack and bag/box setup. I'm edging towards a Velo Orange Flat Rack (a demi-portuer) and either a Rando handlebar bag (e.g., Velo Orange), or a bag from the likes of a Goldback from Bags by Bird. I like the Carradice bags, but I also like the XPAC material for a number of reasons.

Related - looking at another bag off the rear seat and like the bigger ones like the one mentioned above from BxB. Also, looking at the Tailfin or the Relevate Designs Spinlock. However, these would not be a used or useful on a day to day ride vs. longer tour. The bag idea would be great for both long and day to day/around town usage.