Beautiful bike! The 520 was on my short list. I bought a Surly LHT frame and built it up (for various reasons), but probably would have been just as happy with the 520. While I've heard excellent reports on the Cannondale aluminum-framed tourers, I think I prefer steel.

I also like bar-end shifters. My first road bike had downtube shifters, and I was dubious when I ordered a touring bike with bar-ends, but quickly grew to appreciate them. I was happy to put them on my LHT.

I'm jealous of your 22-tooth granny gear. I have a 26 on my Sugino crankset. I'm thinking of installing a 24 (or even 22?) before I take my first long tour on this bike, expecially if it's a tour with major hills.

I'm glad to hear the positive report on your Ortliebs. I'm planning on buying some for my new rig. If you only bought one pair, you might consider buying a second. I think the bike handles better with a load if it's distributed between front and rear. I also try to ease the burden on the rear wheel, having broken spokes before.

Nice bike!