Hi,
What was the number 1 reason for you to switch from a MTB to a touring bike?
I have over 9000 miles on my Trek 7000 hardtail. i bought it looking for something fast and rugged, and for a variety of purposes (courier, touring, commuting, whipping the trails etc.) its gone through slicks and knobbys depending on my seasonal purposes. (Favorite tires on this bike are Specialized Nimbus)

so, even though i can be aggressive about what i do with my Trek (ride wherever i please), and it has been a solid, sturdy boogierocket, the reason im making the switch is because the "aggressive" riding position has been getting to my lower back for some time now, even with the upgrade of a steeper stem and riser bars
So ive learned alot about my riding style over the years and im looking for a more relaxed and comfortable upright but more aerodynamic riding position where I am NOT leaning on the bars in any way, just gripping them. i want a comfortable bike with big gears that can handle some bumps and bruises.

So im done riding the MTB on the roads and im serious aboutmaking this purchase very soon.
im choosing between the Surly X-check or the LH Trucker. does anyone knoe the geometry differences between these?
i want steeel. any suggestions i am open to.
thanks in advance

-=stevey