Surly LHT with 26" wheels

[trout]

I'm interested in building up a Long Haul Trucker, but for my size frame, I would have to go with the 26" wheels. I really don't know if this would cause me any noticeable difference over the 700s that I'm used to, but I'm somewhat reluctant to make the switch down to a smaller wheel size. Does anyone have any experience touring on 26" wheels or have any input on this subject?
Thanks

[whittierider]

This is being discussed in the topic entitled "Touring Bike" in this forum at http://www.adventurecycling.org/forums/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=9&Topic=2725 , starting about a third of the way down the first page.

[trout]

Thanks

[RussellSeaton]

Many people seem to ride their 26" mountain bikes without smashing their heads into walls in anguish.  26" wheels are more versatile than 700C.  Many more tire choices from a wider variety of sources.  And for a touring bike you end up with slightly lower low gears due to the slightly smaller wheel diameter.  I see nothing but positives with 26" wheels on a loaded touring bike.