kenem wrote:The most important aspect of vibration damping, by far, is tyre choice and pressure.
I'd add to that rim choice. Too wide for your preffered tyre and the ride is definately harsher. Tyres that also roll better are probably more compliant > less likely to transmit that road buzz. I would single out Marathons for being quite harsh, due to their stiff side walls.
Regarding touring frames (steel, for I've not ridden other), they tend to be over-engineered for light loaded day rides. Fully loaded, they do soak up the rough much better, but can be less forgiving than a genuine light-weight steel bike IMO. I reckon this is more the case with modern tourers. Older Galaxys would often be described as a bit whippy; not so my old (deceased) 2002 Gal. Particularly with Marathon's fitted.