How practical is a tent in SE asia? Is it better to string a hammock between trees with a mossie net covered by a nylon rain tarp (in UK army terms, a "basha", Australian: hoochie)
The Rockhooper is a sound tourer. The only upgrade you may want to consider is the bottom bracket. This may be a low-end unit. Better sealed units like the Shimano UN-72 are not expensive.
I use 2 panniers and a detachable bar bag. Useful for keeping valuable when you leave the bike and as a map holder.