brad,

I'm still currently debating the LHT v Safari. I started a thread a few months ago that got fairly lengthy (I'll provide the link at the end of this message). In terms of value they are both great options. Overall the LHT is almost certainly the better bike, but the Safari would also be fine. It really depends what type of riding you'll be doing: For mostly road riding the LHT is better (it can handle dirt roads, but nothing too rough as the bottom bracket clearance is low), while the Safari would be better on rougher terrain (it's essentially a touring mountain bike).

Ride both, think it over, then decide:
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...ght=safari+lht