The best tires for gravel are usually 700c tires between 38 and 45 mm wide with a semi-slick or fast-rolling center, tubeless-ready construction and enough sidewall protection for rocky roads. Of the five options here, the WTB Raddler suits mixed gravel and the Maxxis Reaver suits fast, race-style riding.
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Specs come from manufacturer pages where we could read them and from the Amazon listings otherwise. Listings change, so confirm the size and variant before you order.
| MAXXIS Reaver – Dual Compound EXO – Tubeless | Gravel Racing Tire |  | Fast-rolling race tire | Tire Type: Tubeless-ready, foldable (per Maxxis) | Tire Size: 700x40C, 45C or 50C (choose) | Tread Pattern: Diamond-knurled center | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read the details |
| Also consider: Continental Double Fighter III (MTB tire) |  | Also consider: MTB tire | Tire Type: Wire bead (per reseller) | Tire Size: Varies; 50-622 on one reseller | Tread Pattern: Slick center with side lugs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read the details |
| Hycline Gravel Bike Tires Set with Tubes & Levers |  | Tire, tube and lever kit | Tire Type: Clincher with tubes | Tire Size: 700x38C, 40C or 42C | Tread Pattern: Semi-slick | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read the details |
| WTB Raddler Gravel Bike Tire (700c) Tubeless |  | Mixed-gravel grip | Tire Type: Tubeless-ready (TCS) | Tire Size: 700×44 | Tread Pattern: Semi-slick | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read the details |
| Also consider: yeesport 2 Pack 700x38c Bike Tire Set |  | Also consider: commuter set | Tire Type: Foldable, with tubes | Tire Size: 700x38c | Tread Pattern: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read the details |
Details on Each Pick
MAXXIS Reaver – Dual Compound EXO – Tubeless | Gravel Racing Tire
The Maxxis Reaver is a low, fast-rolling 700c gravel tire with a diamond-knurled center and taller side knobs for cornering. Maxxis lists a 120 TPI foldable casing, tubeless-ready (TR) construction, EXO sidewall protection and a 60 PSI maximum. The dual-compound version is the one named in this listing; some sizes use a different HYPR-X compound.
Check before buying: Maxxis offers 40C, 45C and 50C widths, so choose the one your frame clears. It is a racing-oriented tire, so expect less bite in deep loose gravel than a knobbier tread.
- Tire Type:Tubeless-ready, foldable bead (per Maxxis)
- Tire Size:700x40C, 45C or 50C
- Tread Pattern:Diamond-knurled center, taller side knobs
- Puncture Protection:EXO sidewall
- Casing:120 TPI (per Maxxis)
- Max Pressure:60 PSI (per Maxxis)
- Included Extras:Tire only
Pros
- Low, fast-rolling center tread
- Tubeless-ready with EXO sidewall protection
- Three widths available
Cons
- Racing focus means less grip in loose gravel than knobbier tires
- Width options differ by color and compound, so check the exact variant
- Premium-class tire; check current price
Also consider: Continental Double Fighter III (MTB tire)
The Continental Double Fighter III is a mountain-bike tire, not a gravel-specific one. A reseller lists the 50-622 version as a 29 x 2.0 tire of about 0.9 kg. It has a 622 mm bead seat diameter, the same as a 700c rim, so it can fit a gravel bike that has room for a 50 mm tire.
How to use this entry: treat it as an also-consider option for wide-clearance bikes or mixed commuting. The Amazon listing says all sizes, so confirm the size you select. Puncture-protection and compound details on the earlier version of this card could not be verified, so check the listing itself.
- Tire Type:MTB tire, wire bead (per reseller)
- Tire Size:Varies; 50-622 (29 x 2.0) listed by one reseller
- Tread Pattern:Slick center with side lugs (per listing)
- Included Extras:Tire only
Pros
- Fits 622 mm (700c/29 inch) rims
- Wide 50 mm option for bikes with big clearance
- Smooth center for pavement
Cons
- Not designed for gravel
- Heavy at about 0.9 kg for the 50-622 size
- Many sizes in one listing, so easy to pick the wrong one
Hycline Gravel Bike Tires Set with Tubes & Levers
Hycline sells this as an all-in-one kit: two folding 700c tires, two butyl tubes and tire levers. The tread is semi-slick with side knobs for loose corners, and you choose 38C, 40C or 42C. The listing suggests about 40 PSI for the 40C tires.
Check before buying: this is a lesser-known brand, and the listing is not tubeless. Verify your frame clearance for the width you pick.
- Tire Type:Clincher, folding (per listing)
- Tire Size:700x38C, 40C or 42C
- Tread Pattern:Semi-slick with side knobs
- Puncture Protection:Nylon cord layer (per listing)
- Included Extras:2 tubes and tire levers
- Suggested Pressure:About 40 PSI for 40C (per listing)
Pros
- Complete kit with tubes and levers
- Semi-slick center rolls smoothly on pavement
- Three common widths
Cons
- Not tubeless
- Lesser-known brand with limited public specs
- Weights and TPI not listed
WTB Raddler Gravel Bike Tire (700c) Tubeless
The WTB Raddler is a 700 x 44 gravel and cyclocross tire with a semi-slick center, shorter center knobs for rolling efficiency and taller siped outer knobs for cornering. WTB lists TCS tubeless-ready construction on the 44 mm size and a 25 to 50 PSI pressure range. The SG2 puncture layer is offered only on the 120 TPI black version, which WTB lists at 547 g; the 60 TPI black is 526 g.
Check before buying: pick the variant that matches your needs, because only some versions have SG2. WTB states that its products are guaranteed for at least two years.
- Tire Type:Tubeless-ready (TCS)
- Tire Size:700×44
- Tread Pattern:Semi-slick, siped outer knobs
- Puncture Protection:SG2 on the 120 TPI black version only
- Weight:526 g (60 TPI) or 547 g (120 TPI SG2), per WTB
- Pressure Range:25 to 50 PSI (per WTB)
- Colors:Black or tan sidewall
Pros
- Tubeless-ready 44 mm width
- Semi-slick center with siped cornering knobs
- Clear manufacturer specs and pressure range
Cons
- SG2 protection only on one version
- Tubeless setup needs sealant and compatible rims
- Needs clearance for 44 mm
Also consider: yeesport 2 Pack 700x38c Bike Tire Set
This yeesport set includes two foldable 700x38c tires, two inner tubes with A/V (Schrader) valves, two rim strips and tire levers. The listing positions it for commuting, fitness and light mixed surfaces rather than for gravel racing or rough terrain.
How to use this entry: it is a budget option for smooth gravel paths and pavement, not a gravel-specific tire. Check that your rims take A/V valves, since many gravel wheels use Presta.
- Tire Type:Foldable (per listing)
- Tire Size:700x38c
- Tread Pattern:Not specified
- Included Extras:2 tubes (A/V valves), 2 rim strips, tire levers
- Intended Use:Commuting and light mixed surfaces (per listing)
Pros
- Complete set with tubes, rim strips and levers
- Foldable bead listed
- Low-cost way to refresh a commuter or light-gravel bike
Cons
- Not a gravel-specific tire
- A/V valves may not fit Presta rim holes
- Tread and pressure details not listed
Which Gravel Tire Should You Choose?
- Mixed gravel and pavement: a 38 to 45 mm semi-slick such as the WTB Raddler or Hycline kit.
- Racing or fast group rides: the Maxxis Reaver, in the width your frame clears.
- Mostly pavement with some gravel: see our gravel tires for pavement guide.
- Comparing more options: see our bicycle tires for gravel guide.
Gravel Tire Fit Checklist
- Rim and wheel size: 700c and 29-inch wheels share a 622 mm bead seat diameter, while 650b wheels need 584 mm tires.
- Clearance: measure frame, fork and chainstay space for the width you want, with room for mud.
- Rim compatibility: tubeless tires need a tubeless-ready rim, rim tape and sealant.
- Valve type: check whether your rim takes Presta or Schrader valves before buying tubes.
- Pressure: stay within the range printed on the sidewall. See our bike tire pressure guide for general ranges.
Gravel Tire Specs Compared
| Tire | Listed size | Type | Tread | Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAXXIS Reaver | 700x40C, 45C or 50C | Tubeless-ready, foldable | Diamond-knurled center, side knobs | 60 PSI max (Maxxis) |
| Continental Double Fighter III | Varies; 50-622 listed by one reseller | Wire bead MTB tire (reseller) | Slick center with side lugs | Not listed |
| Hycline kit | 700x38C, 40C or 42C | Clincher with tubes | Semi-slick | About 40 PSI for 40C (listing) |
| WTB Raddler | 700×44 | Tubeless-ready (TCS) | Semi-slick, siped outer knobs | 25 to 50 PSI (WTB) |
| yeesport 2-pack | 700x38c | Foldable with tubes | Not specified | Not listed |
Values come from the manufacturer pages or listings noted. Not listed means we could not find it.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tires for Gravel
When you choose gravel tires, start with the tread pattern and tire width, since they shape how much grip and comfort you’ll get. You’ll also want strong puncture protection and a rubber compound that matches your riding style and terrain. If you’re going tubeless, make sure the tires are compatible so you can get lower pressure and better traction.
Tread Pattern
Tread pattern plays a big role in how your gravel tires feel and perform, because it directly affects traction, rolling resistance, and ride comfort. If you ride mixed routes, a semi-slick design can give you fast, efficient rolling on pavement while still gripping gravel confidently. Diamond knurling also helps you keep speed low on resistance-heavy surfaces without giving up control. When you hit loose corners, aggressive outer knobs bite harder and improve maneuverability. You can also look for patterns with smooth centers and textured edges, since they blend speed on hardpack with grip on uneven ground. Beyond traction, a smart tread can soften buzz from bumps and vibrations, so your ride feels calmer and more controlled over rough gravel.
Tire Width
Tire width shapes how your gravel bike handles, feels, and grips the ground. When you choose wider tires, usually 35mm to 50mm, you’ll get more traction and stability on rough, uneven routes. That extra volume lets you run lower pressure, so your ride feels smoother and absorbs bumps and vibration better. Wider tires also help you corner with more confidence on loose gravel and mixed surfaces, giving you better control when the trail gets sketchy. Still, you need to check your frame and fork clearance before you buy, because not every bike can accept a bigger size. Wider rubber can roll a bit slower, so aim for the width that matches your terrain, speed goals, and comfort needs.
Puncture Protection
Puncture protection matters a lot on gravel, because sharp rocks, debris, and rough surfaces can quickly cause flats and slow you down. You should look for tires with anti-puncture belts or other reinforcement that help stop cuts and abrasions before they start. Strong construction matters too: high-density rubber and nylon cord can boost durability and keep the tire resisting damage over many miles. If you run wider tires, you can usually drop pressure a bit, which helps them absorb impacts and lowers the chance of pinch flats on rough edges. You’ll also want to check pressure often, since under-inflated tires get damaged more easily. With the right protection, you can ride farther, worry less, and keep your gravel adventures rolling smoothly.
Rubber Compound
A tire’s rubber compound can make a big difference in how your gravel setup feels and performs. If you want a versatile ride, look for dual-compound tires: they blend cornering grip with lower rolling resistance, so you can keep speed without sacrificing control. Softer compounds bite better on loose gravel, mud, and washboard sections, while firmer compounds roll faster on hard-packed roads and help you cover distance efficiently. High-grip options, like BlackChili-style compounds, can boost traction and mileage across mixed terrain. You should also check durability, because better rubber resists cuts and abrasions when the trail gets rough. Some compounds even include built-in safety layers that help guard against flats on jagged gravel.
Tubeless Compatibility
Going tubeless is one of the biggest upgrades you can make for gravel riding, since it drops the inner tube, trims weight, and adds puncture resistance on sharp, unpredictable terrain. You’ll also run lower pressures, which helps the tire mold to rough ground for better grip and a smoother ride. Look for tubeless-ready tires and rims, because the bead has to lock firmly to the rim to hold air reliably. Add sealant, and you’ll seal small punctures fast without stopping your ride. Before you buy, verify your rim supports a tubeless setup; not every wheel does. When the system fits correctly, you get better traction, fewer flats, and more confidence when the trail turns loose, rocky, and unpredictable.
Sidewall Durability
Sidewall durability matters a lot on gravel, because the tire’s outer casing takes the brunt of cuts, scrapes, and sharp impacts from rough terrain. You want a tire that resists abrasions and punctures, so it keeps rolling reliably on rough roads and lasts longer. Look for EXO protection or similar cut-resistant sidewall materials if you ride harsh gravel often. A thicker sidewall can also help you avoid pinch flats when you run lower pressures over rocks and ruts. At the same time, don’t ignore flexibility: a smartly designed sidewall can absorb vibration and smooth out the ride. Check your sidewalls regularly for wear, nicks, and damage, because catching problems early can save your ride and prevent unexpected failures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tire width is best for gravel?
Most riders do well with 38 to 45 mm tires on 700c wheels. Go narrower if you ride mostly pavement and wider if the trails are rough, as long as your frame and fork have clearance.
What tire pressure should I run on gravel?
It depends on width, rider weight and whether you run tubeless. As an example, WTB lists 25 to 50 PSI for the Raddler 700×44 and Maxxis lists a 60 PSI maximum for the Reaver. Stay within the sidewall range and adjust lower for loose surfaces.
Are tubeless gravel tires worth it?
Tubeless setups let you run lower pressure and sealant can close small punctures. They need tubeless-ready rims and tires, sealant top-ups and some setup patience, so tube-type tires are simpler if you want low fuss.
Can I use a 29-inch MTB tire on a gravel bike?
A 29 x 2.0 tire has the same 622 mm bead seat diameter as a 700c rim, so it can fit the rim. Check frame and fork clearance for the 50 mm width and your rim width limits before you buy.
Semi-slick or knobby tread for gravel?
Semi-slick treads roll faster on hardpack and pavement and still corner on their side knobs. Knobbier treads give more bite in loose or wet conditions but roll slower.
How often should gravel tires be replaced?
There is no fixed mileage. Replace a tire when the tread is worn smooth, cuts expose the casing or grip drops. Rocky routes and race use wear tires faster.
Conclusion
Pick the width your frame can clear, match the tire to your rim and tubeless setup, and stay within the sidewall pressure range. The WTB Raddler is the more versatile pick here, the Maxxis Reaver suits fast riding, and the Continental and yeesport entries are also-consider options rather than gravel-specific tires. Confirm the exact variant on the listing before you order.
