AWESOME replies! so glad i asked, because these replies are gold! And sorry for the confusion, I'm not going to wear a backpack while touring (i did learn something in my 1.5 years of lurking after all!) that was just in reference with my minimalist packing style when i hiked the Appalachian trail. I've got some thinking to do for sure, and will sit the bike techs down have a nice chat in review of some of these comments. So now in my mind, i'm really past the idea of a full-on touring bike, and I'm looking into either a cross-bike (i.e. surly crosscheck, etc) or more of a road bike (i.e. salsa pistola) however the cross-bikes will come capatable with a rear rack for panniers, (though I really like the idea of trying to keep the gear in front of me and behind me to aid in aerodynamics.) however, i could just put a nice lightweight drybag on top of the rack and fasten it down (like a trunkbag). On the more roadie side of it, on the back, i would either need to do a saddlebag (i.e. camper or longflap) though the bags seem a little heavier then necessary, i'd imagine i could just get grandma to sew in some reinforcements/attachments to a drybag to fit the 'saddlebag supports' or i could do the seatpost rack with a dry bag again. Which would be a safer bet? which would be lighter? i would definitely stay under the weight limits, (my backpack gear kit is only 5 pounds, but I'm adding a pound of luxury) and i could balance the remaining weight (tools etc) in the handlebar bag. Also, i really like the 'frame bag designs' as it would be very aerodynamic but would cut into my water bottle storage a bit. (http://www.epicdesignsalaska.com/?page_id=4 ) anyone ever use one? I'm amazed at all the feedback before lunchtime!
thanks again!
mike!