Gravel bikes have burst into the shop window over the past couple of years, filling the gap (if there was one) between road and ‘cross bikes.
And a gravel bike needs a gravel tyre, right? Well, not at all, but Panaracer have seized the opportunity and, in reality, the Gravel King is much more than just a gravel tyre.
The Gravel King is a solid winter training tyre too because, if we’re honest, the UK’s country lanes rarely pass for more than a gravel road in winter anyway
It’s better described as a go anywhere tyre. Not literally anywhere – that’s what mountain bike tyres are for – but something better suited to those bridleways or tracks than a typical road tyre. Because that, in essence, is what gravel bikes are about: exploration. Whether it’s a gravel road or not is really beside the point.
The Gravel King is a solid winter training tyre too because, if we’re honest, the UK’s country lanes rarely pass for more than a gravel road in winter anyway.
It has a file-tread pattern to provide a little more traction on loose surfaces and, while the Gravel King lacks a little feel, it still rolls well for a winter/gravel tyre on road, and its calling card is its versatility and durability.
The Gravel King is available in three widths – 23, 25 and 28mm – and, coming in at 220, 240 and 270g respectively, are pretty light for what they offer. As a comparison, the 23mm Michelin Pro4 Endurance weighs 225g and the 25mm version is 245g. You’re better off discounting the 23mm Gravel King if your frame has clearance for 25mm or, even better, 28mm.
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