You can get them online (in hideous green) for $770 (Bikeman Surly Big Dummy Frameset LG - Green) but many reseller are now selling them under $750 as well (in the gray color).

They seem like over-kill ... Almost too much of a good thing!

What is the back of the bike about? Is this some uber tough rack or utility/cargo thing?

Cargo bike. You can use a ridiculously long rear rack.

Whats the second BB for? To turn it into a tandem? Can't be as there isn't a second seat tube

I can't imagine that I would ever consider one for touring, but I take care of two houses/lawns that are a nice distance apart to bike. I could see where it would be great to haul stuff like gas string trimmer, leaf blower, hedge clippers, loppers, and chainsaw between the two houses. I'd be more likely use a trailer for that though.

Actually, plenty of people us it for long long distance touring (see https://www.bikeforums.net/utility-cy...ing-dummy.html) and the guy who toured the perimeter of Japan with one.

Yes, some folks use them and like them fine. I met a couple people on the Trans America who used long cargo bikes and liked them. On the other hand, I said that I wouldn't consider one for touring, not that no one should/would. I like to travel light so it would be gross overkill for me. Even regular dedicated touring bikes are more truck-like than I want.

I don't think that's a BB shell.

First Post!

I'd LOVE to have a BD. I'm just getting back into biking again after a severely-broken wrist. I retired early, and seems like the next big thing I should try is a tour across the states. Perhaps the Big Dummy is the bike I should opt for.

Rights its a shell to fit in a big old rack https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=...75186341997184

Big Dummy can be set up to haul one or two kids behind and still use two panniers up front. Very versatile around town that way.
I have also seen them used on supported tours instead of a van. Big Dummy with 6 panniers pulling a Bob trailer with other riders' gear. Seen it a couple of times, once even on the C&O in wet, muddy conditions.

And now your first quote. Go for it. Worked for Fred G. Sanford.