Free: Contests & Raffles.
SKAGIT CYCLEBURLINGTON
Support your local bike shop! They will be the best knowledge and be able to get you set up with the right ride, no problem.
Your local bike shop is a great place to get info- just like a local sporting goods store those are people who live their hobby.As far as online sources of info, I have been a member of bikeforums.com for over 10 years and is a wealth of information. For your needs, I would take a look at the touring section. Careful on there though...imagine hunt-wa but instead full of cyclists. I'm also a few years behind the curve on tech, but I worked a couple years in a bike shop and would be happy to offer any info if you have specific questions.
Was checking out Rad Rover, not quite as expensive as the others.