One needs to learn to "read" dirt roads, as to where to place the tires when driving. I've had our 03C190P on paved, gravel, and dirt roads from coast to coast, including the Yukon and AK. Try loading a ferry across the Yukon River from a dirt ramp if you want a challenge! I have found the angle of the approach to a pitch change is important - simply driving so only one wheel of a axle reaches the pitch change at a time has minimized any dragging. It takes a bit more thought and effort, but it works. I have a worse time entering or exiting things like malls and service stations than any dirt/gravel road I've been on! Would I prefer more clearance? Yup! Can I make what I have work? YUP! ST