Touring Wheels Query

[MartinC]

I can't see that going to 32 spoke wheels would give you any benefits, even less any that were worth having. All other things being equal a 36 spoker will be stronger so why change?

[ianr1950]

I can only say that I have toured with panniers and racks on 32 spoke wheels, in fact I don't have any wheels with more than 32.
I have never had any problems but considering the size of the OP then probably 36 would be best.
A properly built 32 spoke wheel is in my opinion and experience is plenty strong enough.

My collection of broken 32 spoke wheels says otherwise

A hell of a lot of problems with any wheel is down to the quality of how well it has been built it the first place.
I have toured in UK and Europe very extensively over the last 15 years and have not had any wheel with more than 32 spokes and have not been let down with them either.
I even used a 28 spoke wheel on a C2C and Reivers route ride last year and that is still being used and has suffered no ill effects.

[fivebikes]

I regularly ride on 32 hole 700c wheels and I weigh in at 13 stone plus luggage. I agree that the build quality is vital. I was forever breaking rear spokes on my Brompton. I ordered a set of spokes from a Brompton dealer and had the original hub and rim rebuilt at my local bike shop. No breaks since, even with rougher terrain than Brompton recommend.