Originally Posted by
crandress
I have been considering upgrading to a modern touring frame. ...
Upgrading from what? Did you tour on that or would you be new to touring? What kind of touring do you do, or plan to do?
By type of touring, what I am getting at is on pavement or will there be a significant gravel component? Loaded touring with camping gear or motels (credit card touring)? Long or short trips (days or weeks)? Etc.
I have bar end shifters on some bikes, brifters on others, that is personal preference.