As the popularity of gravel riding continues to grow, manufacturers are constantly improving and releasing new tires designed specifically for this unique style of riding. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right set of tires for your bike and the terrain you’ll be riding on. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best gravel tires available and help you find the perfect set for your riding needs.
Donnelly X’Plor MSO
The Donnelly X’Plor MSO is a popular choice for many gravel riders, and for good reason. These tires are designed to handle a variety of terrain types, from smooth gravel roads to rougher, more technical terrain. The tread pattern is optimized for traction and stability, with larger knobs on the sides for cornering and smaller knobs in the center for a smoother ride on hardpack surfaces. The X’Plor MSO is available in a range of sizes to fit different bikes, from 700c road bikes to 650b mountain bikes.
Panaracer GravelKing SK
The Panaracer GravelKing SK is another versatile tire that performs well on a range of surfaces. The tread pattern is similar to the Donnelly X’Plor MSO, with larger knobs on the sides and smaller knobs in the center for better rolling resistance. The GravelKing SK is available in several different widths, from 26mm to 43mm, making it a good choice for riders looking for a narrower or wider tire.
Schwalbe G-One Bite
If you’re planning to ride on particularly challenging terrain, the Schwalbe G-One Bite might be the tire for you. This tire is designed with aggressive tread patterns and larger knobs for superior traction on loose, muddy or rocky surfaces. Despite its knobby design, the G-One Bite rolls smoothly on hardpack surfaces, making it a versatile choice for gravel riders.
WTB Riddler
The WTB Riddler is a popular tire choice for riders who enjoy technical terrain and fast descents. The tire’s center knobs are closely spaced for efficient rolling resistance, while the side knobs provide excellent grip and control when cornering. The Riddler is available in a variety of sizes, from 700c to 27.5″, making it a good choice for riders on a range of different bikes.
Maxxis Rambler
The Maxxis Rambler is a versatile tire that performs well on a range of surfaces, from smooth gravel roads to technical singletrack. The tread pattern is optimized for rolling resistance and grip, with larger knobs on the sides for cornering and smaller knobs in the center for a smoother ride. The Rambler is available in a range of sizes to fit different bikes, from 700c road bikes to 650b mountain bikes.
Terrene Elwood
The Terrene Elwood is a popular choice for riders who prioritize durability and puncture resistance. The tire features a tough, puncture-resistant casing and an aggressive tread pattern for superior traction on loose or rocky terrain. Despite its rugged design, the Elwood rolls smoothly on hardpack surfaces, making it a versatile choice for gravel riders.
Vittoria Terreno Dry
If you’re looking for a tire that excels on dry, hardpacked terrain, the Vittoria Terreno Dry is a great choice. This tire features a low-profile tread pattern that rolls efficiently on smooth surfaces, with larger knobs on the sides for cornering. The Terreno Dry is available in a range of widths, from 31mm to 47mm, making it a good choice for riders who prefer a narrower or wider tire.
Continental Terra Speed
The Continental Terra Speed is a high-performance gravel tire designed for riders who demand speed and precision on mixed terrain. Featuring a versatile tread pattern, the Terra Speed offers excellent grip on loose and uneven surfaces while maintaining low rolling resistance on smoother roads.
The Terra Speed comes in a range of sizes from 700x35c to 700x50c, making it suitable for a wide range of gravel bikes. The tire also features Continental’s Black Chili compound, which offers a perfect balance of grip and durability, and the company’s ProTection technology, which provides added puncture resistance without sacrificing performance.
One standout feature of the Continental Terra Speed is its high-quality construction. The tire is made using Continental’s 3/180 TPI casing, which provides excellent durability and protection against cuts and abrasions. The tire also features a tubeless-ready design, allowing riders to run lower pressures for better traction and comfort.
Overall, the Continental Terra Speed is an excellent choice for gravel riders who prioritize speed and performance on mixed terrain. With its versatile tread pattern, durable construction, and advanced technologies, this tire is sure to deliver a confident and enjoyable riding experience on any adventure.
Challenge Tires
Challenge tires also offers a variety of options for gravel riders, including the Gravel Grinder, Grifo, Limus, and Baby Limus.
Challenge Gravel Grinder Race
The Challenge Gravel Grinder Race is another popular tire among gravel riders. It features a file tread pattern that provides excellent traction on hardpack and loose gravel. The tire is available in both tubeless and tubed versions, and the 120 TPI casing provides a comfortable ride without sacrificing durability. The Gravel Grinder Race is a great option for riders looking for a fast-rolling tire that can handle a variety of conditions.
Challenge Gravel Grinder Pro
For those who want even more durability and traction, the Challenge Gravel Grinder Pro is a great choice. This tire features a more aggressive tread pattern with larger knobs for better traction on loose and muddy terrain. The Gravel Grinder Pro is also tubeless-ready and features a 120 TPI casing for a comfortable ride. If you’re planning on tackling rough, technical terrain on your gravel bike, the Challenge Gravel Grinder Pro is an excellent choice.
The Challenge Grifo is a versatile tire that can handle a wide range of terrain, including gravel, dirt, and mud. It features a fast-rolling center tread and aggressive side knobs for cornering traction. The Grifo is available in both tubular and clincher versions, and in a variety of widths to suit different riding styles and conditions.
For more aggressive terrain, the Challenge Limus and Baby Limus are popular choices. These tires feature an open, aggressive tread pattern with large, widely spaced knobs for maximum traction on loose surfaces. The Limus and Baby Limus are available in tubular and clincher versions, and in widths ranging from 33mm to 47mm.
One unique aspect of Challenge Tires is that they are handmade in Italy using traditional methods. This attention to detail and quality control ensures that each tire is of the highest quality, and provides a unique riding experience.
Overall, the Challenge Grifo, Limus, and Baby Limus are excellent choices for gravel riders looking for a tire that can handle a variety of terrain and conditions, while also providing excellent traction and durability.
Conclusion:
Garmin, Suunto, and Wahoo are three of the top GPS computer brands for gravel biking. Each brand offers a range of features and benefits that are specifically designed for gravel bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for advanced tracking and analysis capabilities or simple and easy-to-use devices, there is a GPS computer that can fit your needs and budget. So why not give one a try and see how it can enhance your gravel riding experience?
