I have 18000 in my 04 America and have had 0 troubles. The tires lasted to 16000, and at that time new chain and sprockets, and plugs. My paint is still perfect, and the bike is beautiful.
I have been on several long trips, some 4 day weekends with the wife, 2 10 day trips in the mountains. As with any bike these days a better seat is a must for touring
As far as performance, it will work just fine stock, but some minor mods like pipes, jets and air filter will free it up a bit and give better mileage. They really respond well upgrades.
On the road, 2up and loaded I consistently get just over 40mpg, with cruising speeds in the 70s and 80s. Mine has the 790 motor, the new 865 is supposed to have a bit more grunt.
As far as power I can run just fine with any big cruiser on the road, and can definately out manuever the big boys in traffic.
And when stopping for gas or whatever, no matter how many bikes I'm with, mine gets all the attention.
And for the pegs, installing a saddlemen seat will move you forward about 1 to 2 inches, and stirup pegs or floorboards will prbably shorten up your reach to the pegs sufficently.