Originally Posted by
C Dunlop
I notice a tendancy towards square taper. Is there any benefit to this, or is it just a retro touring thing? I prefer external bbs as they're more easily serviced, and more common.
Square taper is still plenty common, particularly when you get out in the sticks. No particular reason otherwise.
+1 on the Mavic A719. Alternately, consider going with the 26" LHT vs. the 700c, since 26" would presumably be stronger, and replacement parts are supposedly more common in South America.