I'm really interested in this thread because I just bought a Trek 7.3FX a couple of weeks ago. I love it, but my basis of comparison is a 12-year-old Wal-Mart Wonder.

I found a LBS guy who seemed trustworthy and asked him for a bike that would be suitable for commuting (my main activity) but also useful for my triumphant segue into long-distance touring.

So, what's this about switching out handlebars and such? You can do that???