I’m no expert, just wanted to put my two pence worth in the hope it may help Steve.
We have established Kurt is a very capable guy, determined and appears to have enough cash to be able to support his endeavours.
Kurt probably delayed his start purposely to get a ‘handle’ on Steve’s abilities. He also has the advantage of better weather and better possibilities of maintaining better weather for the duration. America is a large place with differing climates throughout the year, he could easily build up a bit of a mileage lead to take a day off and fly to somewhere in the US where the climate is more suited to him if the weather where he is becomes bad.
I would also guess his support team are monitoring what is being said in forums such as this to try and get further information about Steve. It has also been established that Kurt tends to copy his foes which he seems to be doing plus a few extra miles. How long he can keep up his pace is another thing, we don’t know.
I don’t know either Steve or Kurt, but I would hope Steve’s team around him advise him not to put up his tactics etc. on this forum (already been posted) and not to get too distracted by anything else but the task in hand with an eye on Kurt’s performance etc. If any of us can get out to ride with Steve to give him some company and support so much the better (if Steve is happy with that).
Like i said, just my Two pen'orth.