Hi everyone,
After asking around in different threads and doing some online research, I’ve narrowed my tire options down to two: the Tufo Thundero HD (44mm) and the S-Works Pathfinder (42mm). Both seem like great choices, but I’d appreciate some advice on which would better suit my needs.
My Use Case:
• Primary terrain: Roads (some poorly maintained), cobblestones, occasional smooth gravel, and light off-road.
• Off-road experience: My old Continental GP 4-Seasons (25/28mm) handled light gravel but didn’t inspire confidence. I want a tire that feels secure for those moments when I encounter unexpected gravel or rough terrain.
• Comfort:
• My backup bike currently runs Schwalbe Marathon Plus (28mm) on a steel frame, and the comfort is pretty good. I hope that moving to 44mm tires on a carbon frame will provide even better comfort.
• That said, if the 40mm Thundero is significantly more comfortable than the 28mm Marathons, I’d consider downsizing to 40mm. How much more comfort can I realistically expect from a 44mm tire compared to the Marathon Plus in 28mm?
• Puncture resistance: My GP 4-Seasons (scoring around 61 for puncture resistance) served me well for 2–3 months without a single issue. The Marathons are bombproof, but I’m willing to trade a bit of puncture protection for faster acceleration and reduced weight.
Why These Tires?
I love the look of the Schwalbe Billy Bonkers, which is why I was initially drawn to the Tufo Speedero. While I eventually chose the Thundero for its added versatility, I still find myself drawn to the Speedero’s sleek design. The Thunderos, though, offer a similar look while balancing speed, comfort, and off-road capability better.
The S-Works Pathfinder, on the other hand, has a darker sidewall that might be better at hiding dirt and wear over time. Aesthetics aren’t my primary concern, but I do appreciate a clean and sleek look, even on a gravel tire.
What I’m Looking For:
1. Rolling resistance: I’ve seen that the S-Works Pathfinder has slightly higher rolling resistance than the Thunderos, but the difference seems minimal. How noticeable is this difference in real-world use?
2. Comfort:
• The Marathon Plus tires on my steel frame are quite comfortable, but I’d like a bit more.
• Would 40mm Thunderos be much more comfortable than the 28mm Marathons? Or is 44mm the right choice for maximum comfort without overkill?
3. Grip: I live in the Netherlands, where wet conditions are common. Grip on wet asphalt, cobblestones, and smooth surfaces (like tiles in city centers) is crucial.
4. Durability: I’ve heard the Tufo Thunderos are very durable. How does the S-Works Pathfinder compare?
Why Not Commuter Tires?
I already have Schwalbe Marathon Plus (28mm) tires on my backup bike. While they’re puncture-proof and decently comfortable, they’re too heavy (750g per tire) and slow to accelerate. I want something faster, lighter, and more versatile for my new bike, which will be used not just for commuting but also for fun and adventure.
About the Tires:
• Tufo Thundero HD 44mm: Slightly heavier than the standard Thundero but with improved puncture resistance, scoring about 40 on the puncture index.
• S-Works Pathfinder 42mm: Lighter than the Pathfinder Pro, with puncture resistance around 47–48, closer to my old GP 4-Seasons (61).
Both tires seem like excellent options, and I’d appreciate insights on how they compare in rolling resistance, comfort, grip (especially on wet surfaces), and durability. Thanks in advance for your help!
by KrissPS
20 Comments
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Tufo are great tires.
I tried both the Thundero and Pathfinders on my gravel / commuter. I had terrible luck with flats on the Pathfinders (punctures on front during my first ride, and rear on second ride). No such issues with Thunderos (only one single puncture in 2024). The HD version will be even stronger. I could not tell a difference in rolling resistance on asphalt. I don’t think rolling resistance is a thing on gravel.
Not sure, but since you’re coming off 25/28 mm tires, your rims might be a bit narrow for 42/44 mm tires. You’ll need keep the tire pressure high enough for smooth cornering. I prefer 25C or wider rims for 42/44 mm tires.
I’d do a Speedero 40mm rear. Thundero 40mm front, for what you’re chasing.
I’ve run Schwalbe G-ones on my gravel bike for years, but was given a set of pathfinders to try, early this year. I rode on them all year 25% pavement 75% dirt/gravel. I’ve had no punctures (pretty good for the desert) and have lots of tread left. I like them a lot, other than I feel like they are slightly less supple than the Schwalbes. I just got a new set of wheels and mounted the pathfinders on them- I like them that much
i would throw the schwalbe G-One RS into the mix but boooy are the prone to punctures (which seal at least) and done after a few thousand kilometers. I need to change mine after 4 months! will switch to pathfinders next.
I’ve done about 2000km on my gravel bike that has Specialized Pathfinders (Pro).
They roll to my understanding quite well – although it ain’t a roadbike with those tires. I am a few km/h slower on those tires than on my road bike that has GP5000s. Both bikes are steel. Comfort is good, they’re quite supple and I have no complaints there. Grip has been good except in sand and mud – mud being the worst and they are really dicey in mud. I live in a wet place so it’s often wet, but I haven’t had issues with grip at any point, execpt in mud and ice. Tubeless setup was a breeze – just used a regular floorpump.
I’ve done maybe 20-30% gravel 70-80% pavement with them (which was the reason why I bought them), but I have not babied the tires. These days vast majority of km’s are from commuting. I keep an eye on the wear, and so far I can not see any discernible wear on them. They seem to be really tough tires. Literally 0 punctures so far – not even with sealant blocking the puncture.
All in all pretty happy with the tires. I feel like I could have something that rolls a bit lighter (like the S-Works) but other than that, no complaints. They also look cool.
Thunderos are a wonderful ride, but be prepared for flats. This is not an objective truth, just my (long term) experience. I really like Pathfinders for their combination of durability and low rolling resistance. Go [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/gravelcycling/s/77JmcOWhuf) for deeper insights and more confusion:) Happy new year!
I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say that you’re not gonna be able to tell the difference between any of these tires.
Vote for Thunderos from me. I’ve used both and feel like the tufos roll a little better. Have about 600 miles so far with no noticeable wear. Haven’t had a flat yet either knock on wood
The internal width of your rim should determine the tire width.
schwalbe g-one overland seems another option, sort of tyre that does everything
Can’t speak for Thunderos but I‘m 8k in my Pathfinder Pros without a flat.
Tufo’s (Donnelley OEM in USA) are a great choice. Successfully raced on them at SBT GRVL a couple of years ago, finishing in top 5 age group. They make some really fast and durable tires for sure!
Also, to add to the mix, have you considered the Schwalbe G-One R in 700×40? Or a mullet mix with G-One R on front and G-One RS rear? Having raced a handful of gravel events in Colorado, Kansas, etc, this year on some on gnarly terrain, can say both the G-One R and RS are killer race tires too.
I’ve ridden both tires extensively, the Thunderos are definitely faster, with slightly better grip in the wet, though seem more prone to punctures. The Pathfinders are largely bullet proof, and not great in the wet. Though the durability could be reversed with the HD vs S-Works. I rode the standard Tufos and the Pro in Specialized.
Either one, you can’t go wrong. I’m on Challenge Getaways XP 45s at the moment, loving them. Slightly slower rolling, so far no punctures, and as comfy as any tire I’ve ridden, including the Rene Herses.
I legitimately got a pinch flat on my first ride on the tufo thundero 44… I still like them though. Good combo of light weight and low rolling resistance
Dude honestly. I don’t like any of these tires. I don’t find them directional enough for decent road riding. I would personally go to a Cinturato Gravel H, or a Cava Robustas
If you are 50% or more roads and the rest is relatively tame gravel then I don’t know why you’re not considering slicks
Too many variables and everyone has a different opinion. I ran 40 Tufo Speederos for two seasons for almost 5,000 miles. Tons of glass and debris on road, goat head thorns and coarse small rocks on grade 1 & 2 gravel. Only twice did I have a large puncture- first was fixed with a bacon strip, the second was a fatal double stab by a massive decking screw through the sidewall and tread.
40 Speederos felt very nice- smooth, fast and grippy. My subjective opinion so YMMV. I say try them. Everyone copycats the same brands and models it’s annoying and the reason I’m ok experimenting alternative products to find hidden gems.
What tyre is the third one from the left in the photo?