I realize this is a old thread but my old Univega was my favorite touring bike. I went with 48/35/24 with a 32t big on the back and went from San Diego to San Francisco and back. The gearing was plenty low enough with about 50lbs of gear. The head winds only hurt me twice in the entire north bound leg. Long Beach and just before Lompoc. Frankly I wouldn't worry about it. My bike had center pull brakes and didn't have aero levers. I had low riders and I recommend using them and a handle bar bag. The kind that detaches is great for taking into restaurants. (Rhode Gear). Don't forget spare spokes. If the pie plate is gone, you can thread them through the freewheel and then straighten them out and screw them tight. Bring at least two tubes and a patch kit. Bring extra water and less gas then you think. I love oatmeal and coffee before breaking camp. A good stiff frame can't be replaced at any price! All the touring bikes I've ridden never measured up to the old 27" wheel Univega with it's 1 3/8 tires. Sigh.🙄