I have a full carbon Trek road bike that’s about 10 years old. Late last year I faced a similar dilemma-put a triple on it and add a trailer. It turned out the cost of upgrading my Trek to a triple front was almost the price of a new bike, so I bought a Trek 520. The difference in ride quality between the two bikes is dramatic! The 520 is much more comfortable by all measures except acceleration and speed. With the knowledge gained and the advantage of hindsight, I made the right choice for me.

Also, I have concerns if your aluminum frame is up to loaded touring, even if you put 36 spoke wheels on it. Even though the frame is overbuilt, it was never designed for touring. The frame may also be either too flexy or too squirrly when loaded. You'd have to try it loaded to find out.

I’m using my 520 to commute as just got my panniers for touring, so it will also become my “quick run” to the store transportation as well.

Finally, welcome to the touring section!