Thanks guys - great input.  I have acquired a second set of wheels outfitted with 2.2 inch GEAX Saguaros and they seem to fit the bill!  Seems that the Krampus has such a high bb, that just about any tire within reason work.  Also swapped the saddle to a Brooks C15 Carved, but the jury is still out on that..

bakerjw - I am 50 miles west of Springfield, are you referring to velomine?  If so, are you happy with their wheel builds?

Thanks again

Negative thoughts are welcome.  I'm trying to decide if I want to stay with my Krampus as a bikepacking/gravel racing rig.  After owning it for a year, my impression is that it is very sluggish to say the least (particularly climbing) and I could gain some speed with another type of bike.  In central Illinois I don't have many options to demo.

Thanks!

First post - kudos to all of the great information being shared on here.

Soliciting for opinions, is anyone using one of these for bikepacking or ultra-racing?  On paper - this looks like a good all-around bike that could also be used for gravel races.  Tons of triangle space for a frame bag, thru axles, anything cage mounts etc.  Not sure of the tire clearance though.

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

I would take the medium shipped to IL.  Please send me a PM