Originally Posted by CiderMonkey
Just to make the decision tougher, I'd throw the Trek 520 into the mix. It seems like there's Trek dealers everywhere so might be one local for you, esp since you already have one. I use my '02 520 as a commuter with panniers on the stock rack (which people complain about but has been working fine for me), fenders (wet here in the Pacific NW), lights and computer. I covered it with bumper stickers to hopefully make it less attractive when it's locked up outside my office.
Your original post said "fast" was a criteria, and this 520 seems pretty fast to me. I rarely use the largest ring on the front (52) but I can ususally keep up with traffic when I need to on the middle ring. A stronger rider than me could really move on this bike. I did get a longer stem and a second set of brake levers so I could ride more upright in traffic. It feels super stable and strong, although I try to minimize the curb hopping.
And its an American bike too.
The Trek 520 is only 26 pounds according to their website. This really came as a surprise to me because I thought the bike was closer to 30! I really want this bike and will look for closeouts in November but there are too many bikes in my stable at the moment. The 520 has that looong wheelbase and chromoly frame that I really love but the stem has got to go! It seems like everyone who buy this bike changes the stem for a longer one and you would figure Trek would have corrected this deficiency by now. Another thing I don't like is the color. Be honest. The Trek 520 probably has the ugliest color scheme of all the current touring bikes in production. Rivendell puts this bike to shame!
Having said that. I still want one!
I think the poster should still get the Crosscheck only becuase he's looking for a multipurpose bike and not just a touring/commuter.