We've been on 87 going TO Mesa in March, last year and three or four years ago. Both trips into Mesa from Holbrook was great, we had no issues weather-wise. Maybe we got lucky, not sure. :B
There are plenty of choices in Payson to get fuel/gas. The first time through Payson we stopped at the Walmart for staples, we wanted to groceries BEFORE heading into Lost Dutchman.
Dan