I've lived at the NM/MX border for years
currently in MX 4 months on cgl 125 I bought in Zacatecas
Last year was 1 month in Sinaloaense cartel territory in Batopiloas and beyond, riding back roads, being passed by trucks full of armed narcos....no problem.
No problems with gringos riding down here other than drunks or stupid drivers: the Mexicans are killing each other.
Contrary to most opinions it is safe enough here IF you aren't:
1. A Mexican
2. a Mexican involved in drugs
3. or a Mayan in Chiapas
Police are mostly courteous and helpful if you ask for help.
The unsaid rule from the narcos is hands off gringos, and no selling drugs to them...this is first hand info from a jefe of a certain group i happen to know near the NM border.
IMHO the best crossing is at Columbus, NM/Palomas, Chih.- easy, safe, fast and 2 day ride down to Creel...roads are safe and wide open,
Zig

demoted to CGL 125