Well now ...I'd say the ascent would have been more exciting with a lack of 125 pounds additional on the back.
But I think most bikes performance would be aggrieved by a passenger and a combination of a stiff ascent save those bikes with a lot more ****** in em.
I would not want to run for an extended tour with two up with this bike. Just my opinion though. I realize many do tour with it with a passenger and luggage.
I wonder ...do those with the big bore and all the extra horses feel a stronger comfort level with a pasenger for any period of time?