I just completed my first bike journey...short but wonderful. I only rode for 50 miles but learned how the Raleigh Sojourn handles with two rear panniers and a handlebar bag, set up camp to my specifications twice, and celebrated my accomplishment. Nothing like being a 60 year old grandmother and giving my adult children something to talk about!:-)

I noticed that all the comments are from men, so I thought it was time a woman responded. I have a RS and just love it! I had my LBS get a stem that raised the handlebar and brought it in closer, so that my arms are properly aligned. I find that I can be more upright when I ride, which was a big consideration for traveling by bike...I want to see the landscape, not just the pavement. I have found that the gearing is a little low in the flats and when not hauling gear, but the lower gearing is so great on my knees with the inclines (aka, hills). I am just about to take off for a few days of solo, self-contained traveling, and I am one excited woman! I hope that a posting by a woman will help others who are looking into buying a RS.