I'm 73+ inches tall and I feel the 26" wheels are better than the 700 for touring. If I was shorter, it wouldn't even be close. As long as one is running the same components smaller wheels are generally better: No toe overlap. Lower tighter range. Good tire availability from touring to fat (while 700 is in the other direction just depends what you want). Arguably better availability of spares, the world over. Lighter components. Stronger for the same spoke count, and a cool thing about that is that 36 spoke stuff is not weird so you can get a 40 spoke equivalent wheel without being limited in components. Lower bag position. More space on frame for bottles or fenders. Easier to pack. None of this is that big a deal but I think the edge is with the 26" wheel.