Not so much. Here is what Jason from Salsa said about that in another forum
http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=298511

"Ok folks, here goes. Here is Salsa's take on the Casseroll. Yeah, it may sound a little like marketing, but it's the truth so take it as you see fit.

We built a road bike we want to ride. It was conceived when Kid Riemer and I were in Japan. There was a shop building high end commuters. They were beautiful and the shop owner asked us whey we don't build bikes like this? We did not have an answer.

I know it is hard not to compare this bike to a Surly. Well, so be it. They build nice bikes and we certainly would rather be compared to them than someone who builds crappy bikes. The Casseroll is more versatile than a Pacer and more comfortable. It also can be singled or fixed. The CrossCheck is a different beast. It's got a higher BB, more tire clearance. Again, in my opinion, the Casseroll is far more comfy than the CrossCheck, but not as dirt worthy. LHT is a touring bike. The Casseroll is a long distance, versatile road bike.

The Casseroll is Salsa's take on a do everything road bike. It can handle fatties, fenders and racks. It is so darn comfy. Two thing to point out that it is not. It is not designed for off road use. You'll trash the nice steel fork quickly. It is also not a heavy touring bike. Don't load it up for a long tour. It'll feel a bit noodley if you do this.

Chequamagon, don't believe everything you hear. You'll be bummed if your hopes are too high.

Jason"