You say fattest tyres possible in 2025 - because of the changed course? Or just because you wished you had wider tyres last time?
I am a bit concerned with speed! I still need get round before I run out of steam. Don’t want to be totally inefficient.
Because the data now indicates that wider tires are faster overall…especially on rougher courses.
Now, what you pick up in speed form wider tires will be offset somewhat (or completely) by a MTB riding position vs. being on the drops, but your comfort will also be significantly improved.
And you have plenty of time to train to make sure you complete the course before running out of steam. Then on race day, just make sure you pace and fuel yourself appropriately…you’ll be fine!!
Hi
I have a spot I unfortunatly have to sell. DM me if interested. I’m registered in the 200k open men division Current price is 320$, I’ll accept offers lower than that. I have also posted this in therift facebook page if you want to cross-check me 
I just signed up for the 26 race, am I going to die on 45mm tires? My old Lauf can maybe do 48ish but not much more.
I did it this year, on a Lauf Seigla with RaceKing 2.2s and the suspension fork. I was very very glad to have this setup; much of the course is very rough (think fist-sized volcanic rocks embedded in sand, washboard, loose/deep sand etc.) No surprise that the Lauf is the tool for the job, given where it comes from.
That said you can definitely get through it on 45s, though I’d maybe try stuffing in something larger up front. You end with like 30k of rolling downhill—not steep enough to coast but relatively fast—and I was beat up enough by then that any additional cush was welcome.
I will say that it’s an absolutely amazing event, well organized, stunning scenery, good vibes throughout. We rented a camper fan for our whole trip and stayed in the local campsite, which was a great call. Have fun!
i could do 2.2’s on my xc bike and do drop bars on it. Is that wise or overthinking it?