hey,

where do you plan to go ? I would just ride it. Plenty of bike shops along the way to get spares when things wear out.

You'll find friction (non-indexed) shifters more reliable and easier to maintain, so I'd consider them when the current ones die. I assume it's 7 or 8 speed ? You could stock up on components (cassettes/chainrings/chains) which will wear out first (try SJS Cycles).

Rather than spend money on replacing stuff, I'd spend money on decent tools (NBT cassette remover will be useful to you). I'd also have a read of Roger Musson's wheel building book, and look at trying to build yourself a front wheel (it's not that difficult, and is the ultimate cycle field-skill).

'proper' tourers tend to have 36 hole rear wheels, and 32 hole front. Ortleib panniers are pretty much standard, and last well if looked after (no sharp objects), but there are lots of alternatives. Don't carry a rucksack, it sucks. Make sure your bike fits you (play with the stem/bars/seat, and possibly crank lengths). A Brooks (or similar) saddle is well worth investigating, ignore the horror stories, to replace your plastic saddle. And consider a bar bag for valuables (removed whenever you leave the bike), and sling your tent under the bars somehow.

Out on the road there are people of all ages and sizes riding all sorts of bicycles on tour. You don't need any special equipment. Lots of cheap, yet good, stuff comes up on the CTC web forum.

cheers,