I have a new set of Wheelsfar carbon wheels on order – Wheelsfar Gravel DT-350 (30mm depth, 24mm internal width). I am likely overthinking this unimportant decision.
My current tires are the original Teravail Cannonball 700c x 42 mm durable casing that came with the bike. They have approximately 1,500 miles on them. Unfortunately my riding consists of about 80% paved, 20% gravel as most of my rides originate from my house. I’m torn on if I should just remount these tires (rotate) them or splurge for new/better tires. The Teravail still have a fair amount of tread life remaining, especially the front tire. However, they are also not the best tire or the most ideal one for my riding conditions. I figured if I am going to try to get better tires now would be the time to do so since I have to a new remount regardless.
When I do get to ride gravel it is in Southern California. So typically dry, hardpack, rocks and rutted out. I’m not looking to win any races (or race at all). I’m a more cautious rider as I get older (injuries suck).
I’ve been considering the following, but not sure if it will make much of a difference at this point. My bike (Salsa Warbird) has a claimed max clearance of 45mm. I’m not looking to run a second wheelset right now (I know that is the easy answer).
- Specialized Pathfinder TLR 45mm
- Specialized Tracer TLR 45mm
- Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H 45mm
- Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M 45mm
- Pirelli Cinturato Gravel RC 45mm
- Schwalbe G-One RS 45mm
- Maxxis Reaver 45mm
- Tufo Thundero 44mm
- Kenda Crusher 45mm
- Vittoria Terreno T10 Hardpack
- Vittoria Terreno T30 Gravel Endurance
I’m also very open to suggestions including just be happy with what you have.
by sdwindansea
4 Comments
I have to do paved before trail and like my thunderos.
Upfront: I have similar wheels from them, FS-45/32G with DT240 on my Enve MOG. With their 27 inner width, some of your selected candidates will come close to the max. clearance of your frame, e.g. the Thundero is running 46mm on mine …
Generally, if you like your tires, get a replacement once one (or both) is done.
Otherwise any of your list might work just as fine – with the Thundero and Schwalbe RS probably being the fastest, and most puncture prone.
For a set and forget-approach get the Maxxis, Pirelli Cinturato H/M or Spezi PF TLR.
Greetings from Germany.
Yup. I’d get the G-One RS. You can put a R in the front if you want to be safe when riding gravel.
I’d go 45mm Hutchinson Caracal Race personally, they’re an amazingly capable tire and very fast on road. Second choice would be the RS Pros