easy to understand, turn on etc etc

I like the easy to understand bit. I've ridden many miles thinking the Gen2 was doing its thing to find out it wasn't. The problem was user error. It seemed to work well when I did my part right. Still up in the air between the two...

...any other opinions from the collective wisdom out there??

Would it be better to use or not use aerobars on the Stagecoach 400?

that's a coin toss for sure...they would be great for a good chunk of the route but not necessary. If i was to error one way or the other I'd put the bars on. Minimal weight for maximal comfort. The route does have a lot of two track (some super sandy, and if you're lucky, a nasty headwind) and pavement.

my bar ends help simulate the aerobar position...a.k.a. ghettareo bars

Did a search. not much info comparing the two devices. So...

I'm finally going to commit and purchase a spot device. Is it going to be the gen2 or gen3. The 2 costs less, but does less. Is the 3 worth the additional bucks? I'll primarily use it on various bikepacking races and with Trackleaders. I'm leaning towards the 2 because of cost, but if the 3 is the better way to go that is what I'll get.

I know there is a wealth of knowledge on this subject so please chime in. Thanks!

robotfury - go here http://socalenduro.wordpress.com/stagecoach-400/stagecoach-400-registration/

marshall - thanks. saw that page a while ago but forgot about it in my current research. Bummer on the tunnels being closed...that was a cool section.

any update on potential route changes this year?

a ranger stopped our group of 5 and said that his spotter plane saw us go off the established trail

ridiculous!! what the heck is that about!?! is it wilderness or something. share a few details if you would. our tax dollars at work.

Can anyone confirm if there is a 'open' store at Oakzanita springs for food--or is this just a water resupply point?

closed last year when I did the loop at the end of March, probably this year too. No big deal though, there is a well stocked store (and Mexi restaurant) in Descanso, an easy 5 mile on course ride from Oakzanita.  Just pay attention for the Japacha fire-road right turn. Easy to miss as your flying down the steep pave road.

The cruxiest resupply for me was the stretch from the gas station in Escondido to the Sunrise Market in Anza. I lucked out (because i'm slow) and the bike bar on Hwy 76 was open...great burger and fries! Get water from fire station in Warner hot Springs...you'll need it.

need to go to Kingman this weekend and looking for somewhere to ride. I will be traveling in and out from the Vegas area. Anything will do, the longer the better. Either a specific route or a general area that has the goods.
Thanks in advance!!
Jeremy

my suggestions is whenever you do choose to ride, make sure to sign up for the CTR spot tracker...

...and send the Colorado Trail Foundation some cash for the great work and representation they do on our behalf.

Quick question...why the out & back on Agua Caliente Rd? hot tubs??

That loop sweetened the deal. Looks like I got a new route to scheduled in. Nice work Erin.

nice work. i like these cali options that are popping up!
two questions: 1) any good track that you have to link back to the start for a full loop? 2) why are bells mandatory?
I look forward to getting on it. Thanks

Thank you.  Sorry about the typo, I meant to write 400 not 500. 

Bummer...I thought we were going to get a bonus 100 miles of this fun route.

Well done Blake! Solid, steady ride.

nice riding Blake. Looks like he is on track to make his goal. Riding strong and it looks like great temps for Sierra riding.

I've given some serious thought on how to get back on the ride this year but the work schedule is booked. Have fun out there Blake, I'll be watching your dot.

do it to it Blake! glad to hear you're getting on it again. Are you going to do the original route or the ralston reroute?

from Toby - "It's about what people are willing to share to help build something greater than themselves."

That sums it up for me.
Lots of sweat and blood has gone into this and countless other bikepacking races with the sole objective of community spirit and leaving a legacy of something greater than themselves for others to enjoy. I'm a grateful beneficiary of all that sweat and blood and look for ways to give back and pay it forward. The soul of these races is the open/sharing community.

the lone finisher...congrats Greg! way to stick to it and I know you had a great adventure.

Dave, well done on your push as far as you got. mechanicals are a bummer of a way to bail. Great effort!

glad there was at least one finisher on this inaugural year of the race. tough ass race course Sean...and I only saw a small part of it. 

long live CSTR!!

I split from Foresthill. Lost my rear brake and other minor technical issues. But more the issue was excuses to stop overpowered my will to push on. Thanks Sean for you're effort in putting this together (& hospitality). I will come back and ITT it at some point. Bummed to hear about your shoulder, you and Blake were motoring. Nice riding with you in the morning too, Blake. Bummer about the smoke.

Push on Rob, Greg and Dave!