Originally Posted by
Happy Feet
One problem with the internet is that it gathers all information together and can easily highlight optimal equipment solutions. In the "good ol days" people often didn't know better and simply set off touring with what they had. Imagine pre 70-80's when folks were using stainless steel rims and caliper brakes and still criss-crossing the country or world. Now it is easy to succumb to decision paralysis because all our gear is not top tier.
On the other hand, the Internet gathers information from those of us who have done it in the "good ole days" and learned a lot of lessons along the way. I'm not saying that you should succumb to analysis paralysis but some analysis before hand can save you in the long run.