They say that every year. However, I've never seen them actually weigh or prohibit someone from loading their bags.

Quite honestly, it's damn near impossible to keep your bags under 40lbs. (for all those who can do it, good for you, now keep it to yourself)

Two years ago, the luggage guys got more beligerent as the trip wore on (maybe because of all the rain and wet bags weighing more) and began soliciting tips. Curiously, they weren't there last year and the luggage folks were very organized, efficient and friendly.

The idea is just don't be extravagent in your packing. Keep it to what you actually need. i.e. Don't bring three changes of clothes for every nights after ride activities. Don't bring a chair- rent. Don't bring a bike pump, the REI guys have plenty.

Hope this helps and look forward to meeting you on the ride.

Peace,
Tim

Each Bag.

To my mind, this is actually an INCREASE to the more reasonable while giving greater protection to the volunteer baggage handlers. Although I have never seen it checked, weight IS important to avoid injuries for those who must each throw 100 or more bags off the truck.

The guide used to say 40 pounds of gear--implying a TOTAL of 40 pounds--which is pretty clearly unworkable for a ride that can include, 28 degree cold, 80 degree heat, and/or wet.  The newer limit of 30 pounds PER BAG makes a lot more sense. It is easy to carry what you need within that total weight limit with some to spare--Mine usually comes in at 50--but also make it much easier on the baggage handlers than someone showing up, as they could before, with one bag weighing 40 or more.

In addition to the baggage handling issue, Gross Vehicle Weight of the truck is another big reason to limit weight. Once all the bags/tents are wet, their weight increases dramaticaly, putting the truck in serious danger of having an expensive confrontation with the County Weighmaster.

Besides, if there wasn't a weight limit, you wouldn't believe what some people would bring!

Gary

You are allowed to bring two bags at 40 lbs each.  Each bag should not exceed 40 lbs.

Thanks!