I like the retro-ish looks to the Boardwalk, but that is brother here or there for touring suitability...Alivio vs. Altus, hmmm, neither is particularly top of its class, but might do just fine. Tiagra/Deore is as mid-range as I petsonally like to go. Do both bikes have the luggage block on the headtube? it is useful for mounting a Kanga rack for touring. look at the gearing too. this is important for touring. Generally you want to be able to spin rather than mash up hills to conserve your legs...