^ When I have money (and the wife lets me) I am taking you up on that offer. Partially since I am sure riding with you would be fun, as would riding CO, but also because I would leave you with a something like a NeverSummer Titan 169 to "demo" while I'm not using it
I have let my other friends try my setup before and it is comical watching them. Cassi, who is 5'2" and 120#, could not torsion my Ride Yukon 168 and had to lean into turns....causing her to fall. Other compare it to piloting a barge down the slopes

When I tried theirs (if my big feet fit their bindings) it was like standing on a limp spaghetti noodle
As for bags, I have them....but I prefer driving (usually 2-3 others with for a road-trip). Good times all around, plus you get to see cool things on the ride....and have more stories about the trip. Upgrading from a Powderhound rack to a Rocket-Box this season.
-B