I rode a 2006 Cannondale Cyclocross Disc (http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/06/CUSA/model-6XR1.html) with standard cyclocross gearing, which wasn't a good idea when carrying gear. When I got to Santa Barbara I changed out the cassette to one more suited to my needs, but two chainrings in the front was more than enough for me. I love the bike to death, the thing is built really strong, and the disc brakes are awesome. I didn't break a single spoke, but I did break a three rims, all due to my stupidity though. One I went off a very large step with a full load on the back, which totally warped my wheel. Second I had my wheels trued at a very unreliable bicycle mechanic in Mexico, who overtightened one of my nipples which eventually led to a cracked rim. The third rim broke when a car hit me.

I used 700x35 Marathon Supremes, they were also very good tires with excellent puncture resistance. I would actually recommend getting thinner tires, the 35's were comfortable to ride on but a little too slow for my taste. As for my wheels, the original wheels that came with the bike were perfect, however they all broke, but as I mentioned before, not due to poor quality but my error