Thanks for the input....The suspension system is a 'Softride suspension system' which really doesn't pose a handling problem,(I've used it on many loaded tours, including the entire length of the Alaskan Highway. It's ability to take most of the rough road shock away from my arms and wrists really reduces soreness and fatigue. My biggest concerns are related to spokes and tire size. I've not had a problem with breaking spokes, but have read on this site about other riders having this problem. I can go for a wider tire, which would allow me to run with less air pressure, but that would slow me down greatly, including on the second leg of the tour, which is all on highways, even after re-boosting the tire pressure. (On my first tours, I had problems with split tires and bent rear axles, but have successfully addressed those concerns with replacing the rear axle with a titanium one, and using load-rated Kevlar-wrapped tires)