Terry66

There are plenty of other good bikes out there. Personally, I was in the similar situation of local riding, commuting and light touring. I rode a ton of bikes. I rode bikes from the LBS, I rode friend's bikes, etc. For me, the bottom line in choosing a bike is how it feels. Components are usually all similar from all the bikes in the same price range.

I went with the Salsa Vaya and to be honest, I am glad I did. I have never ridden a more comfortable bike in my life. All my friends who ride it are amazed with how the bike feels and handles (even fully loaded). In addition to being comfortable, it has disk brakes and it will run 700X42 tires if you want. I ordered my frame and built the bike up the way I wanted. I'm in Ohio, so I just made it my project to get me through the winter! LOL....

Anyway, good luck with your choice!

BRAZUCA

Update #5: Yes!! The Trucker is mine!! Here are some quick pictures taken with a phone camera, I drove 50 miles ea. way to pick it up, the previous owner had the original receipt with the date of purchase Aug. 30 2012, the manual and bag with bolts, it also came with the rear rack and to my surprise the fenders that were taken off after his tour. According to the seller it was only a 900 miles tour. Price paid: $850. I'll clean it, remove the rack for now and post nicer pictures outside with a sunny day as soon as weather allowing and timing restrictions, nice weekend in Indiana but tomorrow it will get cold again with rain tonight, not sure when I'll be able to ride my black LHT, hopefully soon.

NCbiker

Very Nice! Now it's time to update your signature.

LeeG

I think of it as more like driving a Greyhound bus, having never pushed a pig I'd think pushing a loaded wheelbarrow with flat tire is like pushing a pig. LHT with properly inflated tires rolls fine.