Im confused by what this means. Is your argument that it is overbolted for the grade or that it is bolted at all?
Since it sounds like neither one of us has ever climbed it (and maybe neither of us is in a position to really judge it), maybe we should both climb it this summer and reconvene here afterwards. I'm perfectly willing to change my position if conditions warrant it.
My point is that comparing it to a 5.11 route to somehow justify bolting it is not accurate.
I am sure it is great fun, nay, super fun.
In my days of putting up routes we assessed the commitment value of a route given its location, difficulty, setting etc. While I understand the arguements in favor of this route, it sets a dangerous precedent for wilderness ethics that I would not want to be a part of supporting. I have placed bolts very sparingly in the wilderness when linking otherwise unlinked trad lines. These routes are still being done and are considered "Sporty" but "adequately" protected. The most bolts I have placed on any one pitch was two. I made good use of tricams, stacked stoppers, opposition, etc to avoid bolts in the wilderness wherever possible. From what I have heard, the decision was made to just make IB accessible to the masses and it ignores many natural placement oportunities.
So yes, let's climb it and post a TR.
Who wouldn't want to read that?.
For god’s sake please go climb this climb. Then you would all have a valid reason to comment on it.