No doubt. For me, and for now, it comes down to a question of comfort at the campsite over comfort on the road, especially for constant-rain days (I'll be far from any possible indoor activities). So far I'm comfortable with the weight on the flat and moderate, possibly long uphills. I still need to experience lots of hills in a day.

If it didn't rain, I didn't cook and didn't want to recline, I could save 8 kg (17 lbs) + fuel.
Panniers are 6kg (13 lbs) empty.
3-season tent, sleeping bag, and mattress 7kg (15 lbs).

Total of the above 21 kg (45 lbs). I'm trying to not go too far past 50 lbs with clothes and the little things.

I should get away some time next week if the weather cooperates (at least for the first day or two).

EDIT :
I just realized that I've already blown past the 50 lbs mark because I've been riding with a front pannier loaded with dummy stuff to balance out the other one which is tent-related. It hasn't been included in my calculations apart from the pannier itself and will contain mostly clothes.