I'm rediscovering my old steel Schwinn Crosscut (c. 1990, pictured) and considering updating the drive train to nine-speed and updating the wheels. The bike will be for packed gravel trails and multi-day supported touring. I weigh about 220.

My LBS recommended some Aksiums which are good for up to 700x32s, but the wheels look a bit light to me for this bike compared to the stock steel wheels it currently has. Shop owner seemed very confident in his recommendation a will stand behind the wheels I'm sure... but I would welcome other input.

Alternative recommendations to these wheels would also be welcome!