Threads like these made me try my first 650b conversion, now I have all sorts of wheel making equipment and 32mm tires feel "harsh."

I wouldn't hesitate to make a 650b roadie. I did one myself and love it. Take it on any paved road, never worry about hitting a bit of gravel. It's like driving a four wheel drive Porsche.

Regarding slamming a wheel all the way back in horizontal dropouts for max clearance, one may find that does not provide optimal shifting performance. It's a fine balance. I am now a big fan of vertical dropouts for fendered bikes.