I too way just looking at 17 where the loopback is at on GOOGLE EARTH. Doesn't look all that bad to me as well... There is actually a RV in the photo view not too far from the loopback...
There is only one loopback to deal with - Even at a crawl would not take very long to get past it...
You can check in with NM DOT to road conditions on-line
Also going south through BRAZOS and picking up US64 and then head up to CO using US285 would be a way to bypass the loopbacks...
Since it is not very far away from Chama why not take a side trip without the RV and see for yourself...
Is there a Truck Stop at Chama...
Just my thoughts
Roy Ken