I am mixed the auto.
Just trial rding I miss the the stick. just put in the gear I needed for the speed I want and ride. Down hill, no braking. With the auto, I tended to ride a little fast than norm and found myself running away from folks and would have to wait up some.
Climbing over Kodac rock, and he other big rock just above it, I love the auto. The easiest it has done that. Can't have the best of both worlds, so all in all Don is correct. I like the auto so far. Next run will be more of a test for it 
As for beer, coke cans along with water bottles, I picked up 10 lb ice bag full of them during our stops.
