Originally Posted by seeker333

I recommend you take some short "test" tours first, then reassess when you have more experience / info, and finally research wheel upgrade if/when it is determined there is an actual need for them. In the worst case, you can probably can get by fine with the 36h front wheel, and you'd only need to consider a rear. If 36h isn't enough I doubt 4 more spokes will make much difference - go for the 48h.

Wait a minute - you just bought a new LHT. Why are you re-thinking the wheels now? Buying custom touring wheels on top of a new bike is an expensive lesson in planning.

Aren't you a LBS employee? Why are you not asking these questions at work, where you could get good advice anytime? Also, can't you build a wheel at work, and take advantage of discounted component prices to reduce the cost of this wheel you think you need?

Peter White is an experienced, reputable builder of touring bike wheels:

http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/