I really think too much is made of gearing. I'm not that fit and I've found that with a 20lb load I don't need really low gears to get up steep gradients, just patience. I've happily ridden in western MA with a 36" lowest gear and rode the length of England without derailleurs using two gears of 68" and 37". There's nothing wrong in having lower gears, but they are not necessarily required to successfully tour, particularly if you have a lightweight set up. For me the biggest joy of a lightweight setup is not being restricted to a traditional touring bike or gear ratios. Once freed from heavy bikes and gear, touring becomes so much easier.
Last edited by nun; 08-20-14 at 02:00 PM.