Originally Posted by markw
If this bike is going to be a workhorse, don't skimp on something that could leave you stranded. I'm not thoroughly convinced the Nashbar touring is the way to go for a Touring bike.
You just convinced me. This is going to be my main transportation, and if I start with a cheap frame, it's always going to be that - cheap. And not likely a joy.
I looked online to see what prices I can find for the Surly LHT; looks like about $400. I've updated my list to use that frame instead of the Nashbar, but I'm still looking to use the Nashbar fork with the disc brake braze-ons.