I am about to purchase a new LHT in a 54c. I know you like it. My concern is the 26" wheel. I wanted a 700c but the frame only comes with a 26". I know most people in Europe like a 26" wheel. I assume you do loaded touring, do you find any speed penalty with the smaller wheel? I do like that it is more robust, more options off road, and in the states, I could walk into a Walmart and always find a 26" tube.