Oh! I didn't state where I am starting. Im starting in Portland, OR. Yes, we are planning on camping and I have done overnight camping/tour with a friend once.

Ya, I usually commute by bike to the grocery store and such but probably have never carried a lot of weight. I've never had to use front panniers. I mostly carry a backpack and I've carried up to 20lbs during the school year.

My friends are nice when I start to slow down on a group ride. They stick with me so I think I will be fine. I need to look for tires as well. I hope they have options for 650 wheels.

Well I have 2 months until august!