Parts "grade" on touring-style bikes

I'm starting my bike shopping and I'm looking for a more relaxed, light-touring oriented bike (as opposed to the more racy frame I have now). I'm also looking for a steel bike. I might still get a bike with STI but I'm open to experimenting and I'll try other systems.

I'm finding that most bikes I otherwise find interesting have Sora or Tiagra-level parts. I'm used to Ultegra and I really appreciate the responsiveness of it compared to other bikes with lower-grade parts I've ridden. I was thinking I'd want at least 105-equivalent parts on the new bike.

Any thoughts? Have you had Tiagra on your touring bike? Do you have suggestions for bikes that come - stock - with higher-grade parts?

Thanks!!

Friends don't let friends ride Tiagra.

Don't get anything less than 105.

I've got Ultegra level (some XTR) on my touring bike, but it was custom. You can order Surly frames only, stock frame and pick your own parts.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DebW

I've got Ultegra level (some XTR) on my touring bike, but it was custom. You can order Surly frames only, stock frame and pick your own parts.

Gunnar might be another frame-only option, depending on your budget. Anymore , I buy a frame and build it up myself, just so I can spec it exactly to my needs and preferences. I wouldn't buy something with Sora/Tiagra....