Grand report on the Tote-Cycle.
Shelley lake loop ride is one of the prettiest in Raleigh.
The Tote-Cycle is laden with heavy steel components.
Alloy rims will save about a poung.
Alloy crankset will save about 2 pounds (the single astabula crank is hunk of heavium).
Lose the steel seat post - and replace with simple straight alloy post - save another half pound.

It will ride like a different bike.

Also you can add a second cog to the Sachs three speed hub (like you can on the SA hubs) - add a rear derailleur and double your gear ranges. (see Sheldon Brown on hybrid gearing).

Keep us posted on the progress.

...Bill