Originally Posted by
TiHabanero
I have settled for 25-27 pounds for gear weight, but have gone down the rabbit hole far enough that I have turned attention to the bike itself. Ditched the touring specific bike at about 27 pounds for a road bike running 28mm tires at 25 pounds including rear rack. Overall rig weight has dropped from close to 90 pounds to 54-57 pounds. I'd like to go lower, but it takes a lot more money to get lower and I'm not willing to go there.
One other thing, using Shimano SPD pedals on the bike instead of MKS Lambda pedals with the Monarch platform extender. Lighter by far. If I do go with the better quality quilt, weight will be closer to the 54 pounds.
I am willing to carry more weight so that I can enjoy my time out of the saddle more. I am well aware that many if not most place a higher priority on the lighter bike (with gear), but I still want some of the extra weight that makes the trip more enjoyable for me when I am out of the saddle.
It is a balancing act, I hope you find that you have landed at the right spot for you.