One of the things I've respected and admired most of the past participants, especially the top finishers, of this "race" was how they always remained, more or less, quiet about the race and their experiences compared to the participants/finishers of the last few years... At least regarding public Facebook forums.  I realize there have been books and blogs, but, again, those were individual undertakings. Those previous individuals' overall silence speaks volumes about how they feel/felt and treat this amazing adventure that is the Tour Divide.  It seems the middle of the packers and beyond have made the most noise and pretty much have co-opted this extraordinary event which is a very disconcerting reality.  It reminds me a lot of Crazy Larry... Great guy full of good intentions, but with no "real" affiliation to the actual race.  Just my two cents...

Brand new, never ridden large 2017 Salsa Fargo Rival 27.5+.  Will send pics upon request.  Asking $2200 which will include fully insured shipping to the Lower 48.  This is also locally listed on Boise, Idaho Craigslist.

Brand new large 2013 Salsa Spearfish 1... completely stock. Only ridden around parking lot, but carbon handle bar has a few cosmetic 'scuffs'. X9/X0 drivetrain, Fox CTD fork and shock, Salsa Pro Moto 1 carbon cockpit, and Stan’s Arch EX’s spun to DT Swiss 350′s + thru axles front and rear. Awesome full suspension bikepacking rig! Shipping $100 in lower 48.  Asking $2650.

2013 Salsa Titanium Fargo size L/20" in great shape. Last year of the beautiful bare Ti models. Stock build except Salsa carbon seat post, tubeless setup, White Brothers Rock Solid carbon fork plus original Salsa steel fork with multiple bosses, two Salsa stems (90mm & 110mm). No dents or dings, has under 1000 miles on bike except carbon fork has 3x that amount. Pedals are not included and without pedals, bike weighed 23.9 pounds on my Park scale. Shipping is $100 in lower 48. Asking $2900

Toby... as always, interesting points.  I appreciate your rather 'black and white' mentality in an otherwise massively grayed world.  I am curious as to your thoughts regarding an establishment (e.g. a lodge/restaurant/bike shop) tracking the blue dots and staying open a bit later because they 'spot' someone coming into town after closing time without the knowledge of the racer.  

Smart phones are simply a reflection of the times we live in regarding technology just like the superior soft bikepacking bags, Cuben Fiber, better bikes, components, 29'er wheels, etc.  If one chooses to take a bivy or a tent, is one at an unfair advantage or is it a choice of best kit for the individual.  In general, one of those takes a bit more time to manipulate than the other but again, it's a rider's choice.  Can't a phone be classified as a 'tool' of someone's kit?  Some riders don't take water filtration and some do and so on.  If it ain't against the rules, it shouldn't be an issue.

Ahhh, Mathewsen... you're such a wordsmith.  By the way, I am (seriously) drowning my sorrows watching trackleaders tonight.  Ideal conditions as compared to the last few years.  Ugh!