I gave this bike a test ride at the bike shop and ended up coming home with it. The EVO-specific geometry changes are non-trivial. The bike is slacker than the regular Diverge and there is no toe strike. I have previously test ridden many of the regular Diverges and simply could not find a good fit. By contrast, the EVO geometry fits perfectly. It is not a hybrid and doesn't ride like one. The geometry puts the rider in a more aggressive position than a hybrid or even a comparable hardtail. The BB height is significantly lower--you can feel the difference in stability and the lower profile tuck on descents. I recently did a gravel grinder with two singletrack portions; it was great having the flat bar for control. Out-of-saddle ascents were also significantly easier. Because aerobars are fair game in gravel racing, I do not believe this bike is at much of an aerodynamic disadvantage compared to the drop bar version. The biggest concern with a flat bar + aerobar setup is safety: one loses the ability to draft safely in an aero position; one needs to be more mindful during descents. Other notes: As expected, the FutureShock 2.0 is wonderful. The bike is rig-able for bikepacking and performs admirably. The extra cog on the cassette is a nice touch. The stock Power saddle is fantastic. Some nitpicks: 1) The Expert is a tad heavy for the price point. 2) I would prefer a smidge more tire clearance so as to fit 2.25"" tires. 3) I'm not sure it needs a whole 750mm of bar. The off-road capabilities are limited first and foremost by the tire clearance. 4) Similar to #3, I'm not sure the dropper post is a must-have. It's nice, but doesn't feel necessary. Add more tire clearance, then we can talk about dropper posts. 5) The 10T cog on the cassette feels inefficient or ""grindy.""