Thank you everyone for the information and/or advice. Touring can be done with any bike. I bought my 'cross bike brand new in May 2008. It's the only bike I have, so it'll have to do. I'll just make sure I don't tackle any hills. Next year I'll buy a "real" touring bike. Until then, I'll use the 'cross bike for some short tours hauling light-medium loads. I may just buy a front rack with panniers to balance the weight.