phredette - I would go back to the LBS and ask to ride the oops I mean tell them you want to ride the LHT and any other bike they have in stock. Since it is close ride the bikes you interested in, then when you travel you can try other bikes.

I know longarmbiker, who posts here and is female rides a LHT. I know she has taken the LHT on tours. She also commutes to work, but I'm not sure if she uses the LHT. Just in case you want another reference from someone who actually rides the LHT. I do like the Jamis line of bikes too.