Newbie AZT

[Bobby]

My name is Bobby Treadwell. I am new to bike packing. I plan on bike packing the AZT in May. My system is not yet complete and I'm looking for advice. When it is complete I plan on riding the Coconino Loop to test it out. I have made my own frame bag and gas tank. Looking to buy/make a saddle/dry bag. I was thinking about putting water bottle cages on my front suspension, and potentially one on my bottom tube. Trying to go very light and avoid racks. Current gearing is 32x20 which is great for Prescott, AZ. Thinking about an easier gear for AZT. Suggestions? Comments? Recommendations?

[AZTtripper]

Looks like a good start. I bet you can get a bladder in the frame bag for the sections where you need more water.

[Chad B]

Looking good!

[raybum]

Bobby,
Rig looks good...I'd just buy a revelate seat bag and be done with it...it's probably the most difficult bag to make and making something that doesn't sway would be tough. (w/ a SS, it's a must). 
Regarding gearing, 32x20 for the AZT300 would be good with a pretty light setup (like Chad's when he did it).  I used a 32x21 this year(DNF due to circumstances outside my control) which seemed pretty good although the guy who took 3rd place (Pete Bassinger) used a 32x22.  He's no stranger to these kind of events and I think there is some merit to preserving the legs through some of the tough climbs.
I'm planning on doing the Coco although I'm still a bit undecided on a 21t or a 20t....
Ray