I made a mistake when I called to verify that they could move the '08 drive train components (which work well) to the '09 bike. I didn't write down which manager I talked to the day before. The manager on duty when I went in wasn't the friendliest. I did my best to explain what I wanted and why, and he said "Sorry. I don't know who you talked to, but you were horribly misled. We can't do that." and walked away. I was really put off with the tone that he used when he said it. Then, to make things better... the bike mechanic got the paperwork out and said "So, you want to take the '09 bike home?" with a smile. No thanks.

They were busy and I might have gotten better service if I had gone in on a different day. Usually REI has excellent customer service, but it was as if they didn't want to put any effort into selling the bike. I'm kicking myself for not writing down who I talked to, since it would have been nice to toss it back at them.

Oh well, I ended up taking both '08 bikes back and will probably invest in a pair of Surly LHTs for next year. I had the opportunity afterward to talk to a local tourer who has been riding for 20+ years. After 3 hours on the phone I had a much better education of what touring means and how to go about it the right way. He recommended looking at the Surly and had quite a few suggestions for components. At first I was considering buying a complete bike, but now I'm leaning toward building one (or two) up from scratch. I know the cost will be higher, but I'll have a much better understanding of how the bike goes together and I know the components will be right. Should keep me busy through winter.