Gravel biking has gained immense popularity in recent years, and if you’re venturing into this sport, one of the most important aspects to consider is your bike tires. Gravel bike tires are not just ordinary rubber – they play a crucial role in performance, comfort, and safety. Here’s an overview of gravel tires and some expert advice to help you choose the right ones for your ride.
The Rise of Gravel Bikes
Not too long ago, the concept of gravel bikes was unfamiliar to most cyclists. However, the sport quickly gained traction, particularly in the U.S. mid-west, where cyclists discovered the endless gravel roads, perfect for adventure and racing. Today, gravel biking has become one of the fastest-growing cycling sectors, thanks to its versatile appeal.
How Gravel Bikes Have Evolved
Gravel bikes have come a long way in recent years. Originally, gravel bikes accommodated narrower tires, typically around 35mm wide. But with the advent of disc brakes, modern gravel bikes now feature larger tire clearances, often fitting up to 45mm or even 50mm tires. This evolution has opened up many new options, allowing riders to select tires that suit their terrain and riding style.
The Evolution of Gravel Tires
In the past, gravel bike tires had limited options, forcing riders to work with what was available. Nowadays, there’s a wide variety of gravel tires, and riders can choose from multiple sizes, tread patterns, and constructions to enhance their ride. Tires are a key component of bike comfort, grip, and efficiency, making it crucial to select the right ones.
Schwalbe’s Gravel Tire Range
Schwalbe has long been a champion of larger volume tires, which provide improved comfort, traction, and rolling resistance on rough terrains. Their range of gravel tires is extensive, offering a range of tread patterns and construction types to suit various riding styles. For bikes with clearance for 45mm or 50mm tires, upgrading to a larger volume tire can make a noticeable difference in your ride quality.
Important Considerations Before Upgrading Your Tires
When upgrading your gravel bike tires, it’s important to ensure that the tires will fit your bike’s clearance. Installing tires that are too wide for your bike can lead to issues like tire rub, which could damage your frame or fork. Even minor flex in the rear wheel can cause tire rub if there’s not enough clearance. If you’re unsure about the maximum tire width your bike can handle, it’s a good idea to consult a professional or check the bike’s manufacturer guidelines.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gravel Tires
Once you’ve determined the right tire size, there are two key factors to consider: the type of riding you’ll be doing and the terrain you’ll encounter.
-
Riding Style: Gravel riding comes in many forms, from performance racing and fitness cycling to leisurely rides and bikepacking. Each type of riding requires different tire construction, so think about what fits your needs best.
-
Terrain: The surface you’ll ride on will heavily influence your tire choice. Whether you’re tackling rough gravel tracks, smooth hard-packed trails, or paved roads with some off-road sections, choosing the correct tread pattern will make a huge difference in performance.
Recommended Tires for Racing and Performance
For those interested in racing or high-performance gravel riding, Schwalbe recommends the G-ONE R for mixed conditions and the G-ONE RS for dry, hard-packed terrain. These tires feature a supple carcass construction for low rolling resistance and excellent comfort and grip, making them ideal for competitive cyclists. Both have performed well in events like the prestigious Unbound Gravel Race in Kansas.
Tires for Leisure Rides and Bikepacking
If you’re more into leisure cycling or bikepacking, the G-ONE Overland and G-ONE Overland 365 are excellent choices. These tires are designed for adventure, with a more durable carcass and an intermediate tread pattern that balances on-road and off-road performance. The G-ONE Overland 365 features an all-season rubber compound, providing extra grip in cold and wet conditions. These tires are perfect for multi-day bikepacking trips or even for commuters who want to incorporate some off-road riding into their daily routine.
Schwalbe’s Full Gravel Tire Range
Schwalbe offers a variety of gravel tires suited to different types of riding and terrain:
-
ULTRABITE: With the most aggressive tread in the range, the Ultrabite excels in muddy, rocky conditions, offering maximum grip.
-
BITE: A slightly less aggressive tread that’s ideal for hard-packed trails and tarmac, offering a balance between speed and grip.
-
ALLROUND: A versatile tire that performs well both on and off-road, especially on dusty, hard-packed trails.
-
SPEED: Perfect for road cycling, the Speed tire provides great performance on tarmac while still offering enough grip for dry trails.
Mixing and Matching Tire Treads
One of the advantages of gravel biking is the ability to mix and match tread patterns, much like mountain biking. Consider using a more aggressive tread on the front tire to enhance steering and braking, while opting for a smoother, faster-rolling tread on the rear to reduce pedaling effort and increase speed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gravel bike tires is essential for ensuring a comfortable and efficient ride. Whether you’re racing, bikepacking, or just enjoying a weekend ride, the right tires can make all the difference. With a wide range of options available, take the time to select tires that suit your riding style and terrain. By doing so, you’ll be ready to tackle any adventure that comes your way.
