Thanks for the discussion! I didn't consider it a thread hijack at all, because I'm keenly interested in the disc V canti debate. Discs seem superior from an engineering perspective, but well-maintained rim brakes (and rims) do a good job, too.
I like the cut of the Sojourn's jib, but actually prefer the LH Trucker or the Cross Check, because the sloping top tube is odd to my eye. I think the CC is lighter, as well. Neither Surly has discs, however, if I were to buy it from the chaps down the street. I can't justify spending so much on a Portland, either. It would be the ultimate bike, and far beyond my capabilities. I would feel a bit like a ****** riding it.
Oh, decisions (many of which not based purely on performance....)