But gear ratios are a personal thing...
Well, indeed. Some people can push big gears, some people can't, some people spin, some mash. Find what works for you and get on with it.
I suspect I am turning very small gears compared to many, but with bits of lung chopped out, I need to be able to gently work my way up the hills at my own pace. I'd very rarely be able to even turn my top gear of 48/11.
Ultimately, I am sure 'incorrect selection of gear ratios' doesn't come up often as a reason for DNF on PBP (even for fixed, unless you make a massive, late change to your qualification gear). However, one thing in my own experiences, you'll rarely wish for higher gears towards the latter stages of any 1000km+ ride....