I just got back from my first tour. I went with four other guys, and we went from Ottawa, ON to Halifax, NS (about 1420 km) over 10 days of riding and a rest day.

The mileage was a bit higher than I would have liked, and it rained a lot, but was generally pretty fun. Lots of hills over there, but still good. We were travelling without cooking gear, just tents, clothes, some food, etc.

I was riding a CAAD 8 with an Axiom seatpost rack and panniers. I didn't really have a problem with the weight distribution (although it would have been nice to have a lower centre of gravity) but the rack didn't really seem that stable. If I go again, I'm going to try a different rack setup or possibly get a trailer. I was riding 25c's too, and I think things would have been more comfortable (on gravel/potholed rodes and such) with 28c's.

With some of the roads and stuff I rode across, I feared for my racing wheels - they're pretty light and get knocked out of true pretty easily. Considering a relatively inexpensive touring bike for next time - something a bit heavier and more sturdy.

Anyway, I welcome any recommendations or comments about my setup and possible changes for next time.

Cheers!