US 70/ US 82 Roswell to Alamagardo, NM

Both are OK if you're light and both are kind of pretty. US 82 has a serious drop off down into Alamogordo. I haven't been across there in several years but last time through I only recall seeing "engine brake req'd" signage, but seems like someone mentioned requirements/restrictions have been imposed. But 70 is easy and a nice drive.

 

No, none going across 70 via Ruidoso

 

US82 is restricted to 60' or 65'. Can't remember which but.

US70 is 4 lanes now between Roswell and Las Cruces, speed limit at 75 between White Sands monument and WSMR. 60-65 elsewhere. Good road. Becomes a freeway as you get to Las Cruces

 

70 is a good road. Technically not STAA approved (so it defaults to NM's 65' limit), but there is no reason for it -- 4 lanes with a median pretty much the whole way. Never had a problem with a 75' rig, see plenty of others too... In fact, there is a sign on 70 warning you that the 380 offshoot is restricted to 65' trucks (its very placement presumes trucks in excess of 65' are allowd on 70).

Just don't speed in the 3 or 4 little towns with 35 or 45mph limits and you'll be fine.