Right, I guess there are different ways of touring. In my case, I don't tour to break records, to cycle x kilometers per day, to get fit, or just to cycle - I tour because it forces me to go slower than I would by car, because it's easier than walking and more independent than using public transport, and because it's simply more exciting. I'm not super fit, but neither I'm very unfit. I'm definitely not super strong, and I also won't build up strength just to go touring. I don't see touring as a sport, but as a means to travel.

I'm planning a long trip (12+ months) that is supposed to be more like a backpacking trip and less like a traditional cycle tour. For these reasons, I will probably take a bit more and somewhat different equipment than most tourers here might do (e.g. I want to do quite a bit of hiking, therefore need to take poles, hiking boots and a backpack). I am trying to keep the weight low, but I expect to take around 15kg (plus food and water). BTW: I did not and do not carry the backpack on my back while cycling. I just strap it to the rack.

In any case, I'm not big and strong, and whatever I can do to make long and gruelling climbs easier, I will at least try. I hate pushing my bike. I think that is even more tiring. I'm going to try lower gearing. I don't think that I will have difficulties with the low speed. And I guess it's good to have a low-low gear. If I won't need it after a couple of weeks or months because I get stronger: fine. But should I need it, it's there. If most posters here don't need low-low gearing: good for you. Different strokes, right?