Thanks everyone for your recommendations!

My Stumpy FSR still had all the dirt on it from my last ride in '07, a singletrack trip with Western Spirit around Brianhead. So I cleaned it up and put a new chain on it Thursday night before taking it into the LBS on Friday to get checked out. I had ridden it hard for a couple of years before its long slumber, so I figured it would at least need new brake fluid and maybe some pivots serviced.

The LBS called on Saturday to say it was ready. When I arrived they told me there was no charge! I said "Look, didn't your mechanic spend at least an hour going over all the suspension, pivots, brakes and shifting so don't I owe you for some shop time?" Shop guy said "Yes, but it was in good shape and no work or maintenance needed performing."

So there was no way I was going to walk out of that shop without dropping some money, so I bought new tires. He stocked all the Kendas, except for the Excavators, some Contis and some Specialized. Shop guy recommended either dual Nevegals or a F/R Nevegal/SB8 combo. He also said the SB8's were great on hardpack, but not so great in looser conditions. So I remembered Pamestique and KenHill3's posts and bought two Nevegals.

Pamestique, I am taking that same Western Spirit North Rim trip that hits the trails Kenhill3 mentioned. Your description certainly differs from their description! I saw your detailed write up in the 50 plus forum. I'm not great around heights, so I'll be taking it easy on the sections that get close to the canyon. WS says it's intermediate. The Brianhead trip was little out of my skill and fitness level at the time. Now, the fitness level is the best in my entire life, but the skills are 5 years rustier. Wish me luck! I leave in a few weeks and I'll post a ride report when I get back.

I look forward to wearing out these new Nevegals and trying out some of your other suggestions.

3speed, thanks for that link. It has found its way near the top of my favorites.