Ya, I noticed that the 28 granny 34T would be fine, as for the 7 speed, not being familiar with the derailleur etc, I was concerned that it might have rather cheapo components, so more worried about how well/long they work if in fact they are low end stuff. (hence the suggestion for a good used bike with better component)

I too toured on 7 speed for years, with middle of the road derailleurs (LX) and it was all very durable etc. Having used 7, 8 and 9 speed stuff, I'll take 8 or 9 over 7 just cuz its just as durable and the ratios are closer--but hey, as you say, it works too.

Like I said, my comments were more in the line of perhaps spending a bit more for better components and/or used, just so longevity is better. (example, my wife's bike has twist grips, low to middlish level, and after only a year and a half, they werent working well-partly perhaps with my son being hamfisted using it, but for me an example of sometimes it being worth spending a bit more for better working, longer lasting components with less troubles down the road.)

ALL that said, I agree completely, you make sure your bike is in good shape, dont overload it like a RV and it will be fun.

I also agree on not going nuts with training.