Originally Posted by
TakingMyTime
I really appreciate all the input. My biggest and only concern was the wheels. I was just curious if there may have been some big jump in wheel building where a 28 hole rim would be suitable for very light touring. From the answers above I'm understanding that this is probably not a good idea.
Despite your comment, if looking at other bikes, at least consider lower gearing that what is on this bike, which with a 50/34 and 11-34, lets say with 35mm tires, gives a low gear of a bit over 27 gear inches, which is not pleasant when carrying stuff on a bike and encountering hills.
There are some gravel type bikes with compact doubles, but only you know what sort of low gears you've used in the past when carrying 20-30lbs of stuff on a bike.
From lots of light touring to heavy touring experience over the years, I know what me and my knees prefer, and from what you described what trips you'd like to do, closer to 20 gear inch low is just so much more versatile and pleasant--no real downside to having lower gears--you use 'em when needed.