Not for the race, but doing the Divide this August. I was planning on rolling with 27.5 x 2.6 rocket rons, but I've heard there are issues with the durability - are these going to last the whole trip? Otherwise they seem like a perfect tire- fast rolling, good cush, lightish, snakeskin protection. Not going for rocket speed but want some comfort and I cannot fit 29ers in my bike.

I have a touring rig in a Surly Troll that I've ridden on several types of tours over the last couple years and have grown to embrace its versatility. I bought it specifically to avoid this first world problem. I've got 3 different wheelsets for it which all have the overall same rolling diameter depending on tire. I'll ride 26x3, 27.5x2.3 or 29x40mm depending on terrain, and even have a 80mm fork for the 27.5 wheelset. Between my road and FS mountain bike, the Troll covers all the bases, it's a flickable mule, so I'm frustrated that I'm even considering selling it now.

I love the bike, and now trying my best to avoid the nagging upgrade bug, but I can feel myself breaking down. I keep reading these blogs/forums that laud the 27.5+/29+ platform for bikepacking/touring, especially when switching over from the 26 platform. I've never ridden one for extended periods, but they sound to have real benefits. So I'm now considering 27+/29er rigid touring bikes like the Salsa Fargo and hate myself for it. Is the marketing machine is winning me over, or are the real-world reviews solidifying it?

On backcountry tours I've loved the 26+ size. Compared to the larger plus options it seems a bit easier to manuveur in slow technical sections and the lighter weight is easier to repeatedly turn over extended climbs. But I'm a tall rider @ 6'2 and now that I'm a much more experienced cyclist (only started 3 years ago), could probably handle the extra heft. It also sucks that the 26+ platform only has a few tire options. Would it be worth it to change over to a 29 platform?

Anyhow, I write this not only to talk myself out of making another upgrade (I do love what I ride), but to hear any other stories people have had over the years resisting upgrades and how they justified eventually doing so. I joined the bike community at either the best or worst time; with 3 wheel standards, plus sized tires, etc. there really can be too much of a good thing.

Still figuring the route details but I got all the maps and love planning. Of course am willing to vary route based on realities of the trail, moving pace. I'm based out of Northern California but will be departing from S. Lake Tahoe. Site says this is basically final window of the season. Post up if you've got any interest 

Q/A: https://www.adventurecycling.org/resources/blog/idaho-hot-springs-mountain-bike-route-qa-with-cartographer-casey-greene/
Route(s): https://drive.google.com/open?id=1I5GJtwVOozyY9wK-z3darO9mN3s&usp=sharing

Just make one I did a few weekend loops trying to follow ridge-lines as much as possible.

Northside (hardest): https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14271925
Southside: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14273269
South to North Loop: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14274249

This is great info, thanks you guys! Yes, it would be much better to start with downhill at Pine Mountain Club. I was estimating 30 miles a day because it's a tour group, not a race so I'm thinking group pace. Better to overestimate I suppose.

I'd be willing to bet that it is significantly hotter than what the weather sites show.

Hmm, how's the water situation up there right now? Im thinking we'd just do a modified 'Tour' route starting in Ventucopa. About 90 miles, estimating 3 days.

Thanks for the tips guys, much appreciated! Average highs look to be 80-85 in May

Hi There,

I was browsing this thread as I'm planning an informal tour with a small group from the bay area in late May. A big question I had is shuttles from the Santa Barbara area, do they exist or have any you could recommend? I'd be bringing down 3 bikes in my truck to Santa Barbara and would need to lift them and crew to the starting point (could do this vice versa too, but it's nice to come back to your own vehicle). The tentative plan is to start around Ventucopa and do the 'tour' route, so about 90 miles total. After your riding, how would you rate the trail in terms of strenuousness and technicality? Thanks for your insights!