Gravel worlds

[Karvalo]

Definitely. I would max out my CX bike's clearance or take a gravel bike if I had one.

In his case I have a hard time imagining him preferring a less racy, heavier bike with clearance he didn't need. But not impossible, especially considering the chance of bad weather.

Is it much less racy? A Grail M is the same stack height and 9mm longer reach than the Inflite M he currently uses, so the achievable position is exactly the same. Handling might be a little slower but then there's a distinct lack of tight hairpins on the gravel course. It might be heavier, but is it potentially slightly more aero? I'd be surprised if it wasn't, and the course was basically flat with a few kickers.

I believe you meant to say he rides an Inflite size L (which I'm almost positive he does) which tracks with the 9mm longer you quoted.

Indeed I did!

[DrimeOser]

Or simply the road bike with slightly larger tires. I believe the riders have to mitigate between the sponsor's wish for marketing and what is quickest. Overall comfort, handling, etc. all goes out of the window when speed is concerned. Those roadies don't even use allroad bikes when taking on Paris-Roubaix.
Nevertheless, I think such an event is about winning and not having fun primarily. Thus, if you want to enjoy such trails, still a dedicated gravel bike is best.

If you just care about fun and not speed then a full-susser is best.

Well, depends on what you call fun, man. I simply don't like the position on flat bar bikes anymore. But, to each his own.

[JoninSweden]

Does anyone have any more information on the course for the finals?