Also a huge fan of step through frames and the Shimano Nexus 7 internal hub. So nifty. It's not conventional "touring" though... but I don't really bike for pleasure, just for going to places. I enjoy my Kona coco which as you know is a similar mixte step through to the Mixtape but with 9-speed one-cartridge gears. Not a great lower gear for touring... Top speed maxed out pretty fast. But it's great for not-too-bumpy urban riding (frame transmits all the vibration) and is the prettiest thing I've ever ridden. If you want to test ride let me know. We'd need to adjust the seat at minimum cause I have stumpy legs. If handlebars are the only trouble on the Mixtape, maybe you can get them swapped out down the line? I'd be hella tempted by a MEC sale if I was on the market.