I helped build and test ride a Casseroll this weekend and it's one heck of a nice bike-- smooth, stable, a little more responsive than a loaded touring bike, although it's no performance road bike, that's for sure. It's a heavy bike--not the kind of bike you race, but the kind you ride around for the sure joy of riding around. This is a classic century bike-- a true Randonee light touring type bike.

As far as touring on it, well I wouldn't use it for loaded touring with the full range of camping gear, but it would be really great outfitted with a big saddle bag and handlebar bag. The compact frame and high seat post collar make fitting a saddle bag a snap and I doubt it would have any real negitive effects on handling.

So back to the question of *is the Casseroll a touring bike?* Heck yes! It's just not a loaded touring bike. If you have the money to get this bike, and the time and money to do an inn to inn tour (no camping), this is your bike. As a guy who pretty much see's every bike that comes out, I'd say the Casseroll is pretty much the best new bike in a few years.