Hi all,
Thanks so much for all the responses. My takeaway is that while there's no one way to measure the quality, they might be fine as long as I don't overload the bike, or if I spread the weight out. Just to clear up some points:
1. This is a new bike.
2. I weigh 80kg and plan on putting 10-15kg worth of stuff on the rear rack and panniers. (I'm trying to get that down as low as possible and lose weight!) That being said, I am open to moving gear elsewhere if that makes a significant difference.
3. I've got 10 weeks until the tour begins.
4. I am a guitar player so I'll give the spokes a pull and listen for the twang.
Thanks guys!