I can't believe that you're still not seeing the differences between the Bianchi and the Windsor. This is insane.

My vote would be for a touring bike from REI, if you're not buying used. They even carry Surly if I remember correctly from visiting their store in San Diego. Yes, you do pay more buying there, but REI's warranty and satisfaction guarantee cannot be matched by anyone. If for whatever reason you're not happy with the bike say after your first tour, those guys will work with you in solving the problem. They will even give you a different bike. That is HUGE right there! In regard to Windsor, all I can say is that I met a guy here in Mexico touring on one earlier this year. His rear rack fell apart. I helped him get a tubus rack shipped from the U.S. to my house. He was obviously touring south of the border with the wrong size wheels (700c) which he didn't realize how problematic that could be. At any rate, he said he was going back to the U.S. this month and was planning on selling his Windsor and buying a different bike.

If you can't believe it you haven't read many of the OPs numerous threads.

OK so buying a bike online is a bad idea? I think I will end up with one of the REI ones maybe...I'm not sure I've seen a lot of the posters saying that they are satisfied with the windsor. I think I'll go buy the Randonee

What bike do you have now and did you ride today?

I think that's a great choice. Buy it today. The anniversary sale is on now. Buy pedals and shoes while you're at it.

The Windsor is a good bike for the price. I like that it has STI shifters. I do not think the ratios are right so you would need to do something about that.

The Randonee looks like a nice bike. The wheels and gearing are both nicer than those on the Windsor. So it is a good value especially with the current sale. I personally do not like bar end shifters, but many folks consider them a plus.

LOL. This.

Any of those should work. Just make sure it fits you.

did you ride this weekend?

Yes, OP, how many miles this week?

I wasn't able to ride this weekend. I had to go to a kid's birthday party and then clean the house today. But next weekend is memorial day and I plan to ride every day then.

Gotta give you credit for your honesty. Do your house chores Friday afternoon/evening and speak to your mother about your plans next weekend, so NOTHING derails you. Plan on leaving the house right at dawn each day. BTW, did you get the bike this weekend? That will really get you excited about riding 3 days in a row.

did you get it? Seriously that is the bike for you.

No. Early out of school tomorrow so I'm going then. I have to get money from the bank, it was closed on Sunday (obviously)

I went by an REI today and looked at the Randonee while getting other stuff. It's a nice package.

I read on another thread that you got your new bike today from REI? Hooray!! Well a purchase like that here in the BF is not complete until you post some pics.

That looks like an ideal touring bike. Congratulations, Alex.

Keep a close eye on it while on your tour.

How was your past weakend did you get a couple of good rides in. How do you like the new bike?

Please let us know how the new bike is thanks.

Haven't herd from you in a while is your tour still on?

Obviously too busy riding to post an update.

Glad to here your busy riding hope it is going well.

Thank God this whole charade appears to be over.

I got a redline conquest sport which run for about 500-600 and it has been a pretty easy experience setting it up. From what i hear in your price range there isnt going to be a huge difference in bikes under $1000, but u can tour on anything as long as u can get some racks on it. just get a bike you feel comfortable with and happy travels.