I don't race, not really interested in time while riding, but more out of curiosity I timed several routes where I live up to 5 times with the same and different tyres, from shopping trips with lots of cargo, to single track, and taking the average times,
my conclusion is very simple.
The rougher the conditions fatter tyres will always be faster.
I have tried many Tyers with the same routes.
In dry conditions, Schwalbe Big Ones are mega fast, and incredibly comfortable.
The Big Ones were faster than 2 gravel tyres (conti Cyclocross speeds and WTB Nano's 40c) no matter the terrain in the dry. Wet grass and mud, obviously the gravel tyres would win. But on gravel, unless you need to ride like a nutcase, the Big Ones do just fine in the wet.
I was using one as a rear tyre before it got real wet and muddy in here in the UK, for shopping/school trips. The 2.35 size and semi slick is a very fast comfy rear tyre.
But now its October, mud everywhere, thats not tarmac, a G one Allround 29 x 2.2 is going on the back, and Maxxis Ardent 2.4 or 2.35 Ikon on the front.
This combo is fast, secure and very comfortable for most riding.
Last edited by tablatom; 10-15-18 at 05:54 AM.