40 spoke rear wheel for touring ?
I am in the process of rebulding a Miyata 210 that I picked up cheap at a yard salel. It fits me great, but it was in pretty rough shape. The frame is currently at a local body shop getting a paint job.
The wheels are 27", and the rear wheel that was on the bike is a 40 spoke tandem wheel. It has some bent spokes, so I'm looking for advice from the great minds on this forum. Should I rebuild the 40 spoke wheel, or look around for a 36 spoke wheel ? I don't think upgrading to 700's is an option, due to the cantilever brakes.
Obviously a 40 spoke wheel can carry a heavier load, but do I really need such a heavy duty wheel for weekend tours. I'm not a clyde, and I won't be carrying 80 pounds of gear on extended tours for months on end.
I'd be grateful for your opinions.