Choosing the right gravel tires: our analysis at Routes & Roads
Gravel bikes have never been more popular in Paris and beyond. More versatile than a road bike, faster than a mountain bike, they appeal to those who want to ride anywhere. But one question keeps coming up in the shop: do you really need to change the original tires on your gravel bike?
At Routes & Roads, the answer is clear: yes, as soon as you step outside the "one-size-fits-all" framework.
Most gravel bikes come with general-purpose tires. Their purpose is simple: to offer good performance on the road while remaining usable on dry trails. A logical compromise, but one that quickly shows its limitations as soon as the terrain becomes more demanding—loose paths, sharp gravel, mud, or sand.
"Many customers love their gravel bike, but feel that something is missing as soon as they leave the tarmac," observes the Routes & Roads team.
And that "something" is very often the tires.
For a gravel bike used primarily on roads, a smooth or semi-slick tire is perfectly suitable, especially for commuting or long-distance touring. On hard surfaces, the absence of knobs improves efficiency and grip.
However, for mixed use—roads and dry tracks—tires with a smooth central tread and side knobs remain the most versatile today. They provide good grip in corners and sufficient traction off-road.
As soon as the terrain becomes more muddy or unstable, you need to switch to tires with more pronounced and more widely spaced treads, capable of evacuating mud and finding grip where the road disappears completely.
Tire width: comfort or performance?
Another key point: the tire section.
Narrower tires (35 to 38 mm) offer a more responsive and sporty feel, highly appreciated on the road. Conversely, wider tires (40 to 45 mm) allow for lower tire pressures, better shock absorption, and improved comfort on rough terrain.
When bikepacking or carrying a load, wide tires become almost indispensable, both for stability and for the durability of the equipment.
Today, all the major brands offer complete gravel ranges. At Routes & Roads, you'll find Continental, Kenda, Schwalbe, Maxxis and more, an essential reference for the most challenging terrain.
Each model caters to a specific use: performance, comfort, durability or extreme adventure.
Before even thinking about changing wheels or equipment, the first upgrade to consider is the tire. A good choice immediately transforms the handling of a gravel bike.
📍 The Routes & Roads team, located in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, will help you find the perfect tire for your rides, terrain, and riding style. Learn more: https://www.routesandroads.fr/collections/roues-pneus
