I wonder if many of these touring bikes are overkill for the work they will be put to. I’m surprised there is a market for them. Lets look at that market.
From puberty most boys [yes I am being sexist, but I believe the bicycle touring thing is usually a male thing] spend most of their time thinking about football, music and the opposite sex. I don’t think they think much about touring the world and they probably can’t afford it on an expensive touring bike anyway. I know there is the gap year thing but how big a market is that?
Then they become loved up. Into a long-term relationship, have children and responsibilities.
The shackles don’t start to loosen until they are in their early fifties. Loosen. Not unlock. Because you are always locked into a relationship involving people you love or loved. There are weddings, christenings, birthdays, Xmas and so on. Oh and there is the world of work. How are you going to do that world tour?
So reality. You may stretch things to 3 weeks away. Probably 2. Where will you go? Not so far and much of the world is not a good place to be at the moment. Those short tours are perfectly feasible and comfortable on a road bike that will take mudguards and therefore a rear pannier.
Do you think these expedition tourers are sold to dreamers or people who will actually test them to their limits?
I know there a those who do not fall into the categorys above but I've not met any [yes I,ve read about them] and still the question is. Is this a big market?
All my own opinion of course before you start shouting.