Originally posted by Rich Clark
That's true. But I think we're really talking about unsupported, fully loaded touring, though. Bikes that get you there, and there, and there... not just there and back. Carrying 60 pounds of gear, everything you need to camp, dress, eat, sleep, cook, maintain your bike, stay dry, possibly hundreds of miles from the nearest town.
Minor problems that can be ignored on a 40 mile day-ride become major issues, if not trip-killers, on a two-month unsupported camping tour.
RichC
Yes, Rich, of course you are correct. Better bike = better performance, better comfort - no question about it.
I notice very often that people will chose NOT to tour because they are afraid they cannot tour witht the bike they have. At the same time, they don't want to buy a new bike, so the simply opt not to tour at all.
Touring on any bike is better than not touring at all.