Originally Posted by phughes

If you want simpler, do a 1x setup rather than what you propose. It just doesn't seem simpler to have to manually change the rear. None of the points you have listed are any real issue. I tour on a 3x9 setup. I have 36 spoke wheels, and have carried a lot of weight with no issue. The wheels are going strong after 11 years. Chain angle is a non-issue. You want lighter weight for the drivetrain on a bike that is going to be used to carry a lot more weight. That doesn't even begin to make sense. The amount of weight you will save by ditching the rear derailleur and cassette, is minuscule compared to the overall weight of you and the bike, plus any load you will be carrying.