Wow, some great quick responses. I guess I have a couple questions about my bike too.
My bike is a Miele Cicli /Cromo Tange 900, with the same fork. Ambrosio 19 Elite Rims, Shimano F105 Hubs and I have no idea what spokes. I'm also using biopace (which I know is likely to generate some discussion).
I plan on going for as light a load as possible. I was thinking of two rear panniers, a bag no top of the rack, possibly a handlebar bag, and maybe a small backpack (is a backpack a bad idea?).

Would you think:
a)this is enough space to keep everything needed for a trip like this?
b)the bike sounds sturdy enough to make the trip?
c)biopace is a bad decision for touring?

Also, with regards to the timing issue, I don't feel any overwhelming necessity to get anywhere by any point, but I have my concerns about touring in North America too far into September/October...unless this is not as terrifying as it sounds?...