Originally Posted by
JiveTurkey
If it were me, I'd get a square taper crank with 48/36/26 rings, ditch the 48T and replace with a bashguard (basically a pant-saver now) or replace chainring bolts with BMX ones, choose a BB spindle length that puts the 36T about middle of the cassette or slightly outside, and re-adjust the front derailleur. Even if you'll hardly use it, might still be nice to have that bailout gear. The 26T could even be replaced with a 22T for a true bailout.
+1
I like this idea a lot. You'll want to run some sort of bashguard/chain keeper anyway, so why not just leave the FD on and have a low double?
Also, why the 10 speed cassette? You'll wear through everything faster, and I bet you'll have a much easier time friction shifting 7, 8, or maybe even 9 speeds. Do you really need the close ratios of a 10S cassette on your touring bike? My guess is no, because if you did you'd keep a triple on there.