Cary,
I know I'm biased but ya gotta go with the Nomad.
But seriously, It really depends on your primary use of the bike. If you want or need to take stuff with you anywhere you go, the Nomad is the ONLY choice. You can't beat lockable hard bags. Seeing as how you *are* going to take at least *one* long trip next year,

I think you will be happier with the Nomad. Sooooo many touring goodies for sooooo little money.
Good luck making a choice.
Scotty (The Heavily Nomad Biased) Luv