I'm 180 lbs. and I don't anticipate my gear weighing in at more than 20 pounds. I packed up the panniers, tent, bag, and pad on the rack and road around the block a few times because I was worried about heel-strike, but there is no issue there. I was pretty worried about the strength of the wheels, but it sounds like I don't have as much to worry about as I first thought. I have 28 mm slicks for summer road riding and was wondering if I should put something wider on to help protect the wheels? I run 44mm studded tires in the winter so I have lots of room to play with.

Gearing is another issue, but I think the "just go for it" attitude is probably best for now. I'd still like some lower gears, but want to do it with the least amount of hassle possible. I'm not sure if that's done by switching out the rear dérailleur and going with a wider gear stack, or throwing a triple crank on the front? The idea of smaller chain rings on a compact crank looks like it's out- since it sounds like nothing is made smaller than a 34.

Thanks for all the tips you've given me so far.

Jon