So I put everything on the bike for the trip tomorrow and finalized the packing.   The weight of the bike is placed far different than it was last year.  (link to the article covering last years load out) This year most of the weight is in the side cases lowering the CoG a bit. 

I am taking gear, food, supplies for 10 days of riding, 4 days of camping.  And overall the weight of the setup is slightly above last years load by a lb or two.   With better suspension, and better weight location the bike should handle better than last year. 

I plan to take off around 10am tomorrow!  Now time to relax with Kate tonight.