Well I just returned from a ride with the new 22t granny ring. I headed up one of the bigger local hills (gains 1000 ft. in 6 miles). The result was satisfactory. I could merrily spin at 90 rpm going 4 mph on the steepest sections. So, for now, I'm not intimidated by the thought of touring in hilly country.


I want to thank you all for your generous support. I appreciate your technical knowledge and your real life experience. Trevtassie, thanks for sharing the component combination that your partner has on his/her Troll. I may consider that after I've got a few tours behind me.


Several of you seem horrified by the thought a carrying a 60-70 pd. load. I've spent the winter months looking at YouTubes of other touring riders and the lists of gear that they carry. I've accumulated what I thought was essential but I have haven't packed my panniers yet to see what it all weighs. For a two week tour in summer weather, what is a reasonable load for someone who plans to camp the whole way?