Originally Posted by
fietsbob
I * recommend touring on mainstream components, because You won't find Fringe trendy stuff outside the Major city shops.
9 by 3 should get you any where you want to see, and if you need help the typical Mom & Pop Shop will probably have spares.
Originally Posted by
saddlesores
you might save a few bucks. might. but then it could be cheaper
to simply go with the 3*9 deore setup you're familiar with.
looks like you're jumping though hoops for no real reason.
the 2*10 will give you fewer closely-spaced gears, with
bigger jumps between.......and you still won't have the
essential sub-20" low gear you need for loaded touring.
The OPs bike is 10sp hydraulic braking. To change to a 3x9 system would require new STIs, brake system, cables and housing, crankset, front derailleur, and rear derailleur.
Thats changing most everything but the bars and seatpost.