Hello All,

This will be my first tour, and first time riding with a loaded bike.

Quick trip details:

Duration: 8 Days
Mileage:500-700
Solo
Tent camping
Origin: Orlando
Destination: Key West
Return: Key West-Fort Meyers Ferry -cycle to Orlando

I purchased a Tubus cargo rack and Ortlieb Back Roller classic panniers. I rode from Seattle, WA to Washington, D.C. during the summer of 2009 supported, with other cyclists. We covered ~4300 miles in 50 days of riding.

I purchased the Fl. connector map from adventure cycling and plan to use it to determine part of my route. Currently I intend to ride down the East side of the coast out to Key West, take the ferry back to Fort Meyers, and then ride home.

My question is should I consider a different rear wheel 32 or 36 hole, instead of the stock high-flange-hub wheels that came on the bike, 24 hole. My weight is 160lb.

Link to the bike specs HERE

Any help or advice is appreciated, as well as route advice.

Thanks,

Brett