When I did l'Eroica Italy one of my friends had a CX and nobody cared. Infact I didn't notice any inspection at all. But I can't remember anyone that didn't play by the bike rules. And Italians are usually cool if you are genuine, not as strict as protestants.

But, when my friend rode the long course he did notice cheating. Some riders switched to SPD shoes and pedals after the start. They had support vehicles.