Originally Posted by
Camilo
Not only weight, but the big thing I notice when riding "gravel" rides with MTB'ers is the frontal area from the wide handlebars and hand position. That said, they don't generally have any trouble keeping up with me!
That's why I said flat bars suck on the road. If there's a road section the drop bar bikes have an advantage and it's a huge advantage if they're hammering or it's a headwind.
Modern XC bikes are available below 25 pounds, even around 21 pounds for a hardtail, if you have the $$$.