CG I guess that is the rub. You have to pick a bike that suits your riding. You mentioned "...rougher terrains..." and "...serious gravel..." How can that be classified? Serious gravel in Michigan is different than serious gravel in Colorado...
Ive had my gravel addict 20 for two summers. Having ridden a few other mainstream gravel bikes (friends and test rides), i feel its very forgiving and comfortable. My typucal ride is 40ish miles, and dont feel beatup. I did swap the stock seat...