I have a 2006 Aurora and I can't say enough good things about this bike. I use it for short rides (daily commuter, 13 miles round trip), weekend training rides (20-40 miles) and longer events (MS150). I customized it with SPD pedals, Brooks B17 saddle, fenders, rear rack, lights and cyclocomputer. I had to replace the rear wheel when I hit a pothole really hard but otherwise I haven't had any problems in 2800 miles. I frequently ride with 30-40 lbs in the rear panniers and the bike handles well, without much squirreliness. I haven't done any touring so can't comment on that.

I live in Pittsburgh as well and the gearing works fine for the hills. With 30x32 you can spin up just about any hill, while the 52x11 lets you charge down the other side. I've ridden on some short stretches of packed stone trails but I'd want to fit wider tires (700x32?) for a prolonged ride.

I looked at the Randonnee and Trek 520 as well, but I think the Aurora is the better value.