Wow !! I woke up this AM to find a plethora of good advice and information in this thread. Thanks folks for your generous input. You have saved me a lot of time, money and aggravation. I ordered a 22t granny ring.

Yes, I am a brand new newbie to bicycle touring. I've spent the winter months getting my body in shape, getting the Troll set up, and accumulating equipment. I know from backpacking and motorcycle camping experience that I tend to over pack. The 60-70 pound load was an intentionally generous estimate. Once I get the gearing right and find a saddle that's tolerable, I'll pack everything up and see what it all weighs and then see what I can live without.

We have a lot of varied and beautiful country with great roads here in Oregon. I'm chomping at the bit to get out there and experience it all at low speed.