If you're considering off roading, note that the Aurora does not have clearance for enormous tires. Mine can just barely fit treaded 35s (mythos cx). I'm staring at them right now in comparison to some 32s... and the 32s look bigger. So maybe check on clearance carefully before buying. The longer crank arms will also potentially be a problem off road. The bars are nice because they are shallow, but also narrow. So-so leverage. But for fireroads and such, you'll be decent.

I don't have any experience with other touring bikes, but the Aurora handles really good loaded. Not as good, perhaps, as a loaded LHT, but it's also a little quicker unlaoded. If your frame of reference is road bikes or racey cyclocros bikes, and it may not be super fun to ride, but for me it was a good first road bike, and a great all-rounder. And yes, very comfortable on long rides.

Also, while the gearing may be a *little* steep for loaded touring, 30-32 is still a really low gear. It was fine for me getting over the Oregon coast range. And the higher gears will be good for all your non-touring uses.

It's a great bike, and if nothing else, the component value for the price is awfully good.

Note: I have the 2007 model.