This is a very valid point. The Copper Canyon is one of the largest producers of opiates and hence there is an unhealthy relationship in my opinion between tourism and the local Mexican population down in the canyon, particularly Batopilas. They were quite interested to learn that I was a scientist and a chemist at that.
However, the local police force advised me this route would be ok and other westerners living down there and travelling extensively with bikes have not reported any trouble. Travelling as a solo rider might not be for everyone there, the atmosphere is different to many other parts of Mexico.
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