Bridgestone mountain bike good for touring?
I am a mountain biker interested in doing some touring. Right now, I own a mid-90s Bridgestone MB-3, a darn good bike for it's day, but now a little aged with mostly stock parts.
Would this work good as a road touring bike? Since the wheel set was originally designed for mountain biking, will I be okay on the road loaded down with gear, or should I still upgrade to a stronger/newer set?
Also, I am a little skiddish on narrow drop bars... should I even consider changing out the stock straight bar? I've seen extra wide drop bars, but I'm wondering if any drop bar is compatible with a mountain bike frame... even with relaxed geometry like the Bridgestone.
Thank for any of your thoughts.