We looked at Chico, eventually moved to Bend. Have a friend there, Don Flaner. It's a great town. Cool park. Brewery rocks. HOT though....
If you want Snell, you should get Snell. It is more structured, at least. It does not guarantee quality, but usually means higher price points, which give mfgs more room breathing room (cost-wise) to focus on it.
But if you have not already, you should read this:
http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/ge...iew/index.html
BP