When do i need a new tyre on my gravelbike?

You should replace your gravel bike tire when it becomes worn, damaged, or has reached the end of its useful life. Here are some signs that it's time to replace your tire:

Tread wear: Gravel bike tires have a deeper tread pattern compared to road bike tires, so it can be more difficult to tell when the tread is worn. As a general rule, if the tread has worn down to the point where the knobs are almost level with the surface of the tire, it's time for a new tire.

Punctures: If your tire has sustained multiple punctures or cuts, it may be time to replace it. Some punctures can be repaired with a patch, but if the tire has sustained significant damage, it's best to replace it.

Sidewall damage: If you notice any cracking, bulging, or other damage to the sidewall of your tire, it's time for a new one. A damaged sidewall can cause a blowout, which is dangerous and can lead to a crash.

Age: Even if your gravel bike tire looks fine, it's a good idea to replace it if it's more than a few years old. Tires can degrade over time, even if they're not used frequently.

Performance: If you notice that your gravel bike tire is not performing as well as it used to, it may be time for a new one. Signs of decreased performance can include reduced grip, more frequent punctures, or difficulty maintaining speed on rough terrain.

In general, it's a good idea to inspect your tires regularly and replace them as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

What makes a tyre a gravelbike tyre?

Gravel bike tires are designed to perform well on a variety of surfaces, including pavement, dirt roads, and gravel paths. They typically have a wider profile and a more aggressive tread pattern than road bike tires, but are not as wide or knobby as mountain bike tires.

Some features that are common in gravel bike tires include:

Tread pattern: Gravel bike tires usually have a more pronounced tread pattern than road bike tires, with larger knobs and more space between them. The tread pattern is designed to provide grip on loose surfaces like gravel and dirt, while still rolling smoothly on paved roads.

Width: Gravel bike tires are wider than road bike tires, typically ranging from 28mm to 42mm or more. The wider profile provides more stability and a larger contact patch for improved traction on loose surfaces.

Casing: Gravel bike tires may have a more durable casing than road bike tires to resist punctures and abrasions from rough terrain.

Tubeless compatibility: Many gravel bike tires are designed to be used without an inner tube, which can provide additional puncture protection and a smoother ride.

Lower pressure: Gravel bike tires are often run at lower pressures than road bike tires, which can improve traction and provide a more comfortable ride on rough surfaces.

Overall, gravel bike tires are designed to be versatile and able to handle a variety of terrain types, making them a popular choice for adventure cyclists and riders who like to mix up their rides with a variety of surfaces.

which tyre do you need to buy for your gravelbike?

The type of tire you should buy for your gravel bike will depend on a variety of factors, including the terrain you plan to ride on, your personal preferences, and your budget. Here are some things to consider when selecting a tire for your gravel bike:

Width: Gravel bike tires typically range from 28mm to 42mm or more in width. A wider tire will provide more stability and better traction on loose surfaces, but may be slower on pavement. A narrower tire will be faster on pavement but may not perform as well on rough terrain.

Tread pattern: The tread pattern on your gravel bike tire should be appropriate for the type of terrain you plan to ride on. A more aggressive tread pattern with larger knobs will provide better traction on loose surfaces, while a smoother tread pattern will roll faster on pavement.

Casing: The casing of your tire should be durable enough to resist punctures and abrasions from rough terrain. Some tires have additional puncture protection layers or reinforced sidewalls for added durability.

Tubeless compatibility: Using a tubeless tire setup can provide additional puncture protection and a smoother ride. If you plan to use a tubeless setup, make sure your tires are compatible and consider using a sealant to prevent punctures.

Brand and price: There are many brands that make quality gravel bike tires, ranging from budget options to high-end performance tires. Consider your budget and brand preferences when selecting a tire.

Some popular tire brands for gravel bikes include Schwalbe, Continental, WTB, Maxxis, and Panaracer, among others. You can also consult with your local bike shop or other riders in your area to get recommendations for tires that are well-suited to the terrain you plan to ride on.

Which brands make good tyres for gravelbikes?

There are many brands that make quality tires for gravel bikes. Here are a few popular options:

Schwalbe: Schwalbe makes a variety of tires that are well-suited to gravel riding, including the Schwalbe G-One, Schwalbe G-One Bite, and Schwalbe Marathon series. Their tires are known for their durability, puncture resistance, and versatility on a range of surfaces.

WTB: WTB's range of gravel bike tires includes the WTB Nano, WTB Riddler, and WTB Byway, among others. Their tires are known for their grippy tread patterns and tubeless compatibility.

Continental: Continental's Terra series includes several options for gravel riding, including the Continental Terra Trail and Continental Terra Speed. Their tires are known for their durability and puncture resistance.

Maxxis: Maxxis makes several tires that are well-suited to gravel riding, including the Maxxis Rambler, Maxxis Re-Fuse, and Maxxis Ravager. Their tires are known for their quality construction and versatile performance.

Panaracer: Panaracer's Gravelking series includes several options for gravel riding, including the Panaracer Gravelking SK, Panaracer Gravelking SS, and Panaracer Gravelking Mud. Their tires are known for their tubeless compatibility and grippy tread patterns.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other brands that make quality gravel bike tires. When selecting a tire, it's important to consider factors like width, tread pattern, casing, and price, and to choose a tire that is well-suited to the terrain you plan to ride on.

Should you go tubeless on your gravelbike?

Whether or not to go tubeless on your gravel bike is a personal choice that depends on a variety of factors. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros of tubeless:

• Reduced risk of flats: Since tubeless setups don't use inner tubes, they are less likely to get pinch flats or punctures.
• Lower tire pressures: Tubeless setups allow you to run lower tire pressures, which can provide better traction and a smoother ride on rough terrain.
• Self-sealing: Many tubeless tires are designed to self-seal small punctures with the use of sealant, so you can continue riding without stopping to fix a flat.
• Less rolling resistance: Since there is no friction between the tire and inner tube, tubeless setups can provide slightly lower rolling resistance.

Cons of tubeless:

• Setup can be tricky: Setting up a tubeless system can be more complicated than a traditional tire and inner tube setup, and may require special valves, sealant, and tools.
• More expensive: Tubeless tires and rims are typically more expensive than traditional setups.
• Sealant needs to be checked and replenished: The sealant used in a tubeless setup needs to be checked and replenished periodically, which can be time-consuming.
• Limited options: Not all tires are available in tubeless versions, so your options may be limited.

Ultimately, the decision to go tubeless on your gravel bike will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and riding style. If you frequently ride on rough terrain and are looking for a way to reduce the risk of flats, tubeless may be a good option to consider. However, if you prefer a simpler setup or don't want to invest in the additional components, a traditional tire and inner tube setup may be a better choice for you.