Ok all, here are some cell phone pics of the first rough setup:







I bought the XS size rei stuff sack last weekend and was amazed that I could shove the tent down in there and compress it all the way. I'm even using the compression straps to mount it on the seat. I was worried about it hitting my legs, but rode around a bit with it there to see if it would bother me and it didn't. Up front is my 35 deg down bag along with a sleeping pad. All hand positions are still totally usable. Total of about 3 pounds on the front and about 2.5 pounds on the rear. Tent poles will go on one side of the backpack in the outside pocket. Stakes will be in the backpack as well.

The main downside? The rei stuff sack is only technically water resistant and the sleeping bag stuff sack is probably not even that. I've got a three week window in Texas to do a 3 day trip, so I can imagine I will find a no rain window, but the prospect is less than optimal. If push comes to shove, I can probably cram the sleeping back into my pack, which I have a nice rain cover for.

Haven't really gotten to the loading of the backpack stuff just yet. I imagine it will be more simple than last time because I won't be taking all of my winter stuff like last time. Mostly just stove, food, "kitchen", toiletries and clothes. Shooting for under ten pounds in the pack including a full 2 liter water bladder. But that is a lot of water...