I want to ride from SF to LA and am thinking of using my IRO. I was thinking of just using my Scott Addict R3, but don't think that is wise for such a distance when I have such a sturdy, simple, sweet Angus. Any advice on how I can set this up for long distance touring? Looking for advice on set-up, gear, gears. Any pics or websites would be cool too. Anything really.

Bike Set-Up: I am thinking of going light. Just a handlebar bag up front with food, maps etc; a rear saddlebag and then maybe a rear rack with sleeping bag/tent. Not thining panniers or anything like that I will use a hydration pack too. I can't run bottles on the frame, so I have to think up some ideas on carrying water on the bike.

GEARS: Mostly, I am concerned with gearing and climbing. I am not good enough to do this fixed. I would definately use freewheels to coast down the hills. I am more concerned with climbing. Any advice on magic ratios? I read that I could just use the flip/flop to my advantage by sticking on a climbing specific cog, but what would be a good combo for spinning? I run 165mm cranks with 46 or 48 up front. I have also read that I could just take a few different chain rings with me on the trip and just swap out when necessary. I love climbing, so really want someting I can spin and I want to maximze the flats.

Any ideas?