Is it official that he will attend the 4CC? That might not be a good idea, I think. He beat Dai psychologically with his great performances at the last year's National. I think this year's performances could achieve the same effect on his competitors. He could gain little but lose a lot at 4CC. Don't go, Patrick.
Considering the altitude at Colorado Springs (over 6000 feet above sea level) and the 15 hours time difference (jet lag) that Takahashi has to deal with whereas Chan would essentially be competing "at home" with no travel required, the Japanese Champion will have to be in exceptional condition to overcome his subpar performance at his Nationals and do better at the 4CC.
Win or lose, men's competition is always hard to predict - this isn't Ice Dance. Just because a World Champion didn't win every single event he/she enters is quite pointless in using that to predict the outcome of the next competition. Not sure what you think why Chan could lose a lot at 4CC? If he got beaten by someone, somehow that will hurt him the long-run??? I don't think such thought is warranted. If he got beaten, it can only mean he didn't skate his best, that's all. On the other hand, with very little expenses to incur for this event, he could pocket some nice prize $$$, which would be worth a lot of bus rides in LA.