Just try this first. I think he is correct. Just add 2 links to the chain. If it doesn't work I would go with option 1. Personally I haven't had much happiness with Sunrace cassettes.
They graded the road very recently. I had my usual touring luggage so descending was slow but I would say it is in excellent shape for a dirt road. I climbed from the lodge and descended into Calitzdorp.
I don't think the Epic wants to have a reputation of their participants dying. Done it 3 times and my gripe is not safety with them. That area is handled very well.
