I am planning to build a touring bike with a Surly LHT frame. I'm looking for some advice on selecting a drive train.
My requirements are:
- Reliability - I am planning on doing weeks or months long tours.
- Ease of repair if necessary in remote locations, including in the developing world.
- Ability to get parts in the future, I am building it to last 10+ years.
On my current bike I have a Shimano 7-speed drive train. I am quite happy with that. I tour around the UK over all terrain without problems. But 7 and 8 speeds are becoming less common now. I don't fancy going above 10-speed, it doesn't provide any advantage but make it less reliable.
Should I go for 8 or 9-speed? If so what drive train group set is good? Any recommendation will be appreciated.