Your tour sounds fabulous, CAS. New Mexico is one of my favorite states. It seems to be overlooked a lot, but the scenery is spectacular! The only places I've ever ridden there is on trails in Albuquerque (paved) and Santa Fe (unpaved, rode our mountain bikes), but I have wonderful memories. Hope you'll post more about your tour once you've done it!
Emily
2011 Jamis Dakar XC "Toto" - Selle Italia Ldy Gel Flow
2007 Trek Pilot 5.0 WSD "Gloria" - Selle Italia Diva Gel Flow
2004 Bike Friday Petite Pocket Crusoe - Selle Italia Diva Gel Flow