Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 3,549
Likes: 1
From: Somewhere between heaven and hell
Bikes: '09 Jamis Komodo, '09 Mirraco Blend One, '08 Cervelo P2C, '08 Specialized Ruby Elite, '07 Yeti AS-R SL, '07 DMR Drone
See if you can get someone experienced with fit to go along with you when you buy the bike. A good fit is crucial, ESPECIALLY if you plan on being in the saddle for a long time for touring. And at $700, you're probably going to have to go used, which means you'll have less options as far as geometry goes.