Originally Posted by
canklecat
Since the OP is talking about local races, those are mostly crits. Assume comparable conditioning, those are usually won by tactics and the best sprinters. You don't need the most aero bike and kit if you're mostly drafting,
Aero matters just as much for a crit where the difference between winning and losing is often measured in inches. Aero gear (sknsuit, wheels, etc)also helps while drafting.
At any level of racing there’s always going to be some riders ‘passing thru’ the category who are clearly stronger than most of the field. Usually young guys on there way to a higher level. They can get by with sub optimal equipment until they plateau and start racing with similarly capable riders. Then they will also need enough gear to be on a level playing field.