Originally Posted by
cosmicsurfer
I did state that I didn't mind shelling out, but I would also note that I don't want to break the bank either.
I can't speak from experience in expedition riding like that but mostly from touring in the US,racing and owning a bike shop at one time. Bicycles aren't rocket science.
In the category of heavy frames for heavy loads you aren't paying for better above a particular price range, you're paying for different.
The Thorn bikes look great, esp. the Sterling EXXP..wow.