DD,
First post for me here... I've been lurking and doing my research like you did and have been enjoying this whole thread immensely, so I'm glad to be able to contribute something... Got laid off at 56 and looking into trucking now... hope I'm not too old...
I don't drive a truck (yet...) but do ride this route all the time on the motorcycle so can comment on it somewhat. It's a GREAT motorcycle route, BTW.
Coming right out of Montrose there is pass before Cimarron (can't remember the name) but it's not too bad. I've seen semis on that all the time. There is narrow 2 lane in the area between Cimarron and Sapinero where you will likely be holding up traffic. On second thought, this is tourist season so maybe not... Once to Sapinero there are stunning views of the canyons and Blue Mesa lake/reservoir before coming into Gunnison. This section is well worth the effort of driving this route since it's so beautiful.
If you're stopping for lunch in Gunnison, there is a great sandwich shop near the NE corner of Hwy 50 and Hwy 135 called Firebrand. Just saying...
After Gunnison you'll be driving over Monarch Pass. This is likely the most challenging part of the drive. I think it's up around 10-11,000 ft. Again I've seen semis on this so just take it easy coming down the other side into Poncha Springs. This also has some amazing scenery and is well worth the effort if you don't mind taking the time. Continuing on Hwy 50 past Salida, it runs along the Arkansas River and again some very nice scenery until Canon City where (for a motorcyclist at least...) it gets flat and boring again.
It's my guess that it will take about as much time to drive the Hwy 50 route as to do the extra miles to bypass it, but the scenery will be some of the nicest you'll ever run into. I'd say do it.
HTH, any questions, post 'em here I'll be glad to comment. I absolutely love these roads and take them all the time. :bow:
Greg