Originally Posted by
Doug64
The other question is what load is the OP carrying.
I've done a little loaded touring in mountainous terrain and find that low gears make life a heck of a lot more enjoyable.
BTW- a 22 tooth chainring with a 34 tooth rear cog will get 4.6 mph at 90 rpm with 700 c wheels.
I am glad you brought up cadence. That can be an issue. Try revving at 90rpm just to stay upright when your normal cadence might be 80 or even 85rpm. If your cardio fitness isn't up to scratch, a rider will have issues trying to sustain 90rpm or more up a long climb.
Personally, I would prefer the higher tooth count on the small ring and stand to pedal. Then again, much depends on the load and the ability of the frame to handle that without flexing.
I will make the point again that as the tour progresses, the rider's fitness and strength will increase.