You've already found links to other tours, so you're not going to have any trouble finding hints and encouragement. Journals seem to bridge the gap between "dreaming" and "planning".
I've been across the western half of the US, including the Rockies in Montana, but not Canada -- yet. So this is general experience.... Generally, you want to cross the Rockies in early August (give or take a couple weeks). This means starting May through June in the East, or June through July in the West. In Montana, early August of 2001 in the high valleys (~2000m), we got snowed on. It didn't stick to the road but it's something you have to be prepared for. Of course, it depends on which route you take, and on the weather two years from now, but it sounds like you're headed for an early crossing of the Rocky Mountains only a few days after you start.
No matter when you cross the mountains -- or the continent for that matter -- carry cold weather gear. For lots of things, if you only need it once a month, it's not worth carrying. But not in this case, it can save your life.
I'd say there are six things to plan for:
1) choice of bike and gear
2) bike maintenance
3) fitness/training
4) what to carry
5) maps/route
6) camping
1: You've got your bike. Choose lightweight, waterproof camping equipment.
2: Someone in your group should know more than the basics of fixing a flat or adjusting brakes. Know how to do a once-a-week checkover: loose nuts/bolts; hubs, derailleurs, drive train. How to adjust those things. How to change spokes, especially on the rear wheel drive side. Regular lubrication, chain and drivetrain.
3: Training is good, especially if you're in a group so everyone is about the same level. But as long as you're in good health and enjoy the daily challenge, you can expect the first week to provide all the training you need.
4: Lots of web journals give lists of things to carry. As long as you don't pack more than your panniers can hold, you're OK 🙂 Since there's 3 in the group, it will be easy to share (such as cooking equipment, if you want to bring it), and therefor cut down the average load.
5: I don't know about maps across Canada. For most tours I take, I get good road maps and scan in/print out the segments -- this can take a while, so planning early helps. Or use topographical software to do the same thing. Maybe an experienced Canadian tourer can help with maps....
6: Camping experience helps, a lot! In fact, I'd spend more time on this than on training rides. Know how to find and set up camp quickly, get a routine established for pitching the tent, stowing gear, cleaning up, doing laundry, tuning the equipment, getting food out -- all before twilight falls. And in the morning, how to break camp and pack quickly. Even if you camp just a few days a week, all this activity can be time-consuming and frustrating if you don't have a built-in routine.
With two year's planning, you'll be plenty ready. The first days in BC, it will look like a monumental challenge, but by Newfoundland you'll be used to daily accomplishments.
-- Mark
