Path Less Pedaled Russ I need a tip here.. I just bought a set of these tires I’ve put them on and they won’t line up proper, when I fill them with air they’re very off balance and “hoppy” I’ve let the air out to about 10psi and rode it up the road and back to try and flat then into their spot but it’s not working.... help.
@@damonwhite2862 Hi Damon, make sure they are fully seated. You may need to inflate them to I higher pressure and pull on the tire until it seats. If you are still having trouble check out the park tool video on installing tires
Yes to more tire reviews! Your bike reviews were a huge help to me picking out a new bike and this one review alone was super helpful as I start navigating the thousands of tire options that exist. Thanks again.
like the direction you are going with reviewing more types of gear. The market is SUPER saturated and only getting deeper right now. These types of reviews help save us all time and help us choose what is best for our rides. thanks
I am using these on my gravel bike. Giant Revolt Advanced 2. Size 700 by 38. I love them from my road rides. Center Ridge is so smooth. Off-road I have tackled mountain bike terrain with them. Surprisingly good traction while Offroad. I like this tire as a jack-of-all-trades. It gives me the ability to be ready for anything.
Just tested these out on my new Crux 700 x 38c. 40 miles of pavement and 20 on hard packed/ some mud dirt. These things fly. Thought i was on a road bike the whole time on a nice clean road. My top speed was 32mph
Been using the Pathfinder Pros in 700x38 for several years now with great results in pretty much all categories, from all-pavement 200km rides to all-gravel 200km rides, commuting, touring, and everything in between ... they just sorta disappear underneath me, which is the best thing a tire can do for its rider. The only time they don't impress is in muddy conditions, and, as was mentioned in the video, well... few tires really do well in the mud and ALSO roll fast and do everything else well, so it's an acceptable trade-off in my mind; plus, if it's THAT muddy, I'm probably walking eventually anyhow. Recently built up a bike with 650b wheels, and getting the Pathfinder Pros in that size was an easy choice ... all of the same results, but even more comfortable with the extra volume. I will honestly shed a few tears if Specialized ever stops making the Pathfinders. I've gotten antsy in the past and tried a few hundred miles on various iterations of the GravelKing (SK, SS, and the original GK slicks in various sizes) and I just keep going back to the Pathfinders. They feel "right", aren't too expensive, last a long time, and do everything well.
I've been looking for a tire with a specific tread pattern for a couple weeks, then I remembered seeing a video title from Russ that was titled "The best gravel tire." This is EXACTLY what I've been looking for! Thanks again Russ!
I agree with your review 100%. I have them in 700 x 42 and they roll fast on pavement, yet have good grip off road under average conditions. A great all rounder for sure.
this video is the reason i use these, thank you ... getting ready to buy another pair for another bike of mine. This time it will be the 700c instead of the 640b.
Thanks for this review. I have the Byways on my gravel bike now. The Byways are great on the road, but on loose gravel or dirt, they break loose on corners and don’t have enough grip for me to inspire a ton of confidence. The Pathfinder seems to offer some more grip. 🦾
I am currently searching for the best set of tires for my gravel and I think I have found the winner..... Please keep the videos like these, I like to know and learn what is out there.
Trying a lot of Gravel tires and for myself I made choice Specialized Pathfinder Pro 700x42c. This tires have the best rolling, smooth on gravel terrain.
Thanks for the review. I'm currently looking for tires that perform well on gravel but remain relatively fast on pavement. I found your review to be very helpful. Thanks!
I got my set 3 days ago and put them on my specialized sequoia. Have been going on various rides to test them on different terrain and I LOVE them. I prefer them much better than the stock sawtooth tires that the sequoia was sold with. Great review!
Pieter-Jan Van de Maele did you change your crank length when you moved to 650 also hows the clearance on the chain stays? I also have a sequoia and have been thinking about making the switch. Thanks
Pieter-Jan Van de Maele right on thanks. I’m on the 42 resolutes right now and I’m liking them for the winter and i’m probably going to try the 45 riddlers/44 Snoqualmie pass this summer. Have fun with the tires, like the wind!
@@broadfjord7087 All last year I ran Riddler 37c 700 on a Specialized Sirus Carbon, bike about 85% road BUT when we go offroad and I include serious offroad (underbiking) in a mixed ride, those big side knobs bite and hold the line well and keep me from sliding in even when on edges of mudpits from Jeeps. At 900 miles the rear tire is done but the front has more life to give. Overall I feel they are fast enough, have good puncture protection, have predictable handling, low noise and i think supple enough. I do run tubeless but may go back to tubes because when deep in the woods and you flat it proved easier to swap or patch a tube than to clean the mess on the bead if the tubeless wasn't sufficent to seal and the bead popped. I am replacing with same tire as it has worked well for me. Hope that helps
tomordr thanks! If you can fit 42s the resolutes are pretty awesome as well. They shed mud great, have low rolling resistance and are confidence inspiring.
Thanks for the review! I have had good luck with specialized tires, I love my Sawtooths, they have been really durable, grippy, and fun. My only complaint and why I don’t like these kind of tires for racing, is because they are super heavy! For purely gravel racing the gravel kings or anything from compass is my jam! However always looking for something new, therefore looking forward to your tire series! Cheers!
Terrene Elwoods run 650x47 and have that center ridge with a little more grip. More prominent side knobs lock in on mixed terrain comfortably at 25-30 psi. Fast on the road like the PFP’s at closer to 35-40. Another one to consider in this “genre”.
Haven't had any experience with the other tires mentioned, but definitely agree on the review. Awesome tires, a note to that the knobs are very soft in compound which adds a layer of traction in the hard pack.
I am going to try and switch to the Pathfinder pro. I have the WTD by way and I don’t like the lack of grip in the corner. Love your channel you guys are great
I´ve just installed my new pair of Pathfinder 700x42C on my AWOL COMP. Rode about 60 km on Tarmac and Cobbles, mainly up and downhill here in Rio de Janeiro (famous Vista Chinesa Climb). Need to ride more to have a better opinion. By the way, the tires did a good job going downhill at 9% steep full of sharp turns.
Thanks! After watching your video, I bought a pair of these online. I can't wait to check them out, as I ride a lot of pavement before I hit the dirt,. Cheers. P.S.- keep up the good work. Your videos are entertaining and informative, especially the Golden Saddle and Hog Farms vids.
Riding them 11 months later you still loving the Byways? I just bought a pair to replace my stock Horizons on my Midnight Special, haven’t mounted them yet.
I've been looking at the Priority Apollo bike which comes with 700c 40mm WTB Byway tires and I am really disheartened to see practically every reviewer get a flat on their Byways. I love that they have the flat strip down the middle for road riding and grip on the sides for trail. I will be moving to Tokyo (lots of city riding) and doing some bikepacking every chance I get, but I'm afraid of getting a puncture every time I go off road.
I've been liking the Vittoria Terreno lineup myself. Just rode through WI, MN, and upper peninsula of MI on 700x38 Terreno Mix tires to give them a try. Those are awesome on dirt roads and rail trails, and a little slower on pavement. The Terreno Dry tires I've done over 1k miles on as well, those are fast on everything, but the rear tire does wear out faster. I'm trying out a set of Terreno Zeros now since I'm doing more miles on pavement this year. All of them have that very nice plush ride Vittoria is known for when it comes to their 120tpi tires. I really like this series, and going to stock up on a whole bunch of them to last a few years.
700x38 on the SOMA Wolverine Commuter. These tyres are fast! Same power in relatively same weather conditions/traffic and my commute to work has gone up by 1.6mph vs Schwalbe Almotion. Pumped up to 80PSI and they are proper road mile munchers. Drop to 30-35PSI and they roll over towpaths and forest roads effortlessly with plenty of grip.
Go with the 38s after running 42s I wish I'd gone with 38s. These things collect mud like none other and having the extra space helps. Clearly if you can fit 50s or some insanely large tire. I would also say these fit a little big which is strange because the other specialized tires I have run small.
Do like the tire reviews. As a novice. Still you would not believe the pile of tires I have that I tried. Also air preasure advice is also welcome Thanks
2:38 I recognize that spot in SLO County! Just thru the intersection of Yerba Buena & Hwy 1 N/B leaving Morro Bay! Sort of my backyard! Loving the Pathfinders on my new '21 Sirrus X 5.0. Fast on the road, set up tubeless with ease. Only minimal gravel experience so far but I can tell when these wear out, they'll be getting replaced with the same.
I have three bikes running different tires with a tubeless setup. Mostly ridden on 50/50 gravel asphalt roads On my Cannondale Topstone is running gravelking sk. Nice on gravel , slow on road. Picked some staples pretty quickly but sealed fast with tubeless sealant. WTB byways on a 3T Exploro, fast, I can keep up with a group in mid 20’s no prob. Slippery on wet leaves tho and no real great at braking except on pavement. I have Pathfinder Pros running on a Cannondale X4 cyclocross bike. These are very speed, not as supple as the byways, so a harsher ride but very puncture resistant and roll really nice on asphalt, so much I’ve been using them all year as a commute bike for my 34 miles round trip commute.
I just started running these on a DT Swiss 1501 rim on my Trek Checkpoint SL5. These rims are 28 internal, 33 external. The 42mm casing bumped out to 44mm. I have not run them on my other wheelset, a more standard 23/26 Bontrager setup, but they are meaty. I like how they roll, and the extra width does make up for the lack of toothiness. I don’t feel any slower than I was on Schwalbe g-one 38mm.
Thanks Russ! I just mounted a set on my Breezer Radar, and I can’t wait to try them. I am replacing a set of the Gravel Kings, because I wanted something that rolls faster on pavement without giving up too much on the gravel. Enjoyed the review as always!
Just got some VeeRubber Zilent 650bx47c tires and they're so rad! The name is awful but if you don't want to shill out $60+ for tires then these are so good! Would like to hear your opinion on them.
I had Specialized Sawatooth 700x42. But I was looking something faster that I wonder how WTB will be on my bike. But after Your reveiev I think I have to look more carefully to this tire 😊
I've got these tires on my gravel bike (38mm x 700c) but as I'm new to off-road riding I have nothing to compare it with so it was great to hear your thoughts on it as I keep getting asked about them. I've enjoyed them but I'm comparing it to a 25mm road tire and a 32mm marathon plus tire so these ones are lush off road compared to both of those 😀
Definitely more supple than a 25mm road and Marathon Plus (great flat protection but a little dead feel). If you want a truly eye opening experience in terms of possibilities of wide tires, try some Compass tires if you can find them. Supple and quick!
@@PathLessPedaledTV I've made a note thanks for the tip! The gravel bike is on loan so when it comes time to give it back in a few months I think I may be doing a little shopping for an off road bike (and likely my husband too!)
I have 2 sets of tires for my bike. Both wheel-sets (DT Swiss CR 1600) are exactly the same except for the tires. On one wheel-set I have Schwalbe Marathon plus 700x32 (with inner tubes) and on the other I have Gravelking SK 700x43 (tubeless). I was really surprised that the 700x43 are actually lighter!! The tubeless arrangement really makes a difference to weight. Off-road the Gravelkings are soooooo much nicer to ride. I was laughing out loud when I was trying them for the first time. I use the 700x32 for regular commuting on regular roads, but I'm kinda wondering now if the wider 700x43 is just better overall. I can feel the extra drag of the wider tires on regular roads, but they're definitely much more comfortable. For info, I run the marathon plus at about 65psi and the Gravelking at 40psi (at least for now - I'll check out other pressures over different terrains).
When I bought my Topstone, I swapped the WTB Nano TCS 40c tires for the Pathfinder Pro 42c. I have a good amount of paved and gravel roads around me to ride and love these tires. My friend is choosing the Trigger Pro 2Bliss for his gravel bike. I'm curious how they compare to the Pathfinder Pros. Maybe your next video. Keep up the good work.
Hi, have you tried the Kenda alluvium pro yet? I'm in doubt between the Kenda aluvium pro and the Specialized pathfinder pro, I use them mostly on paved roads.
Thanks for such a detailed (and personal) review... I was wondering how you would compare this and other gravel-specific tires to something more on the trekking side, like a Schwalbe Marathon?
Trekking tires favor flat protection over ride quality. So they will typically ride a lot more sluggish and feel stiffer over all at the same pressures.
Great review, subbed! Need some help with tire selection, please. Building some 650b wheels for our road tandem so we can use it for gravel rides and races. Curious what tubeless tires you'd recommend if our goals are prioritized like this: 1. flat protection/durability 2. grip on fire road type riding and 3. efficiency on-road. Tandems are really hard on tires because of combined weight, harder to pick lines, and inability to lift up on the bike to "float" over an upcoming obstacle (actually sounds like loaded gravel touring 🤔). Can get 47mm in back, and probably up to 2.1 in front and want to max out the widths for optimal suspension/grip for two. Looking at the GravelKing SK plus version for flat protection. @Path Less Pedaled, any experience with the plus version of these tires? They come in a 650x47. Weight of the tire isn't as big of a factor. Thanks for any advice and input!
The S-Works Pathfinder Pro’s are incredible. Too bad they only make them in 42’s. You prefer them over the Gravel King SK? What are your top tires in 2023/24?
I DO want more tire reviews please. However I’m quite concerned about durability. Maybe you can do one about puncture resistance. For long distance touring should I only go with the schwalbe marathon plus (seems less popular amongst gravelers) or are their other gravel and cx tires that are just as puncture resistant? -Corey
If puncture resistance is the most important thing to you, then definitely go with the Marathon Plus. We used those riding cross country and probably only got less than 5 flats.
Nice-looking tire, thank you for the review. My road riding (commuting) often *is* mixed terrain; the roads around here can be terrible. I'm currently riding Specialized Hemisphere Armadillo 38s on my heavy hybrid, chosen for their puncture resistance. So far so good; only one bit of wire worked its way in in almost 3 years. So how well do those Pathfinders work with glass, wire, sharp gravel, potholes, and other fun and exciting road debris?
I’ve gone through 2 byways over the last few months - huge great holes in that can’t be repaired. Maybe I’m just unlucky. Do you know if these have a thicker protection system? Do they feel a bit more sturdy? Thanks for the review / love the channel!
Where were you getting the holes? On the tread or sidewall? I think these are probably par with the byways. A bit more built up on the center tread, but otherwise similar sidewalls.
@@PathLessPedaledTV It's mainly been the tread. First time it was on gravel - second time just riding down paved road. photos.app.goo.gl/iHKgmsvFChhLWbgSA Not sue these tires can handle New York! Any thoughts on a similar style road plus tire with better protection?
very interesting, thanks. Any comparison you could share between those specialized and also the well known Hutchinson overide TLR? Just received as a gift a pair of the hutchinson to replace my Specialized roadsport (60 tpi) tires and wondering if I should either swap to Hutchinson, stay this way or exchange the hutchinson with new Specialized Pathfinder Pro 2Bliss The hutchinson have slightly more grip in the middle while a bit less on the shoulders.
Hi, Have you any review / feedback on any Teravail 650b tyres? A comparision between the Teravail Washburn / WTB Byway would be useful. Loving the channel btw. :-)
I have a 2017 Specialized Roubaix and I read of a guy who did a conversion to 650x40, but called it very tight. I'm thinking of doing the conversion to 650x38mm for being sure. Would you deem that wide enough for gravel riding without singletrack?
That's a pretty good width depending on the roads in your area. Some places it is pretty smooth and hardpack. Here in Montana it would be borderline on many roads.
Hey Russ! I'm about to buy my first gravel bike and have been using your channel a lot for research so thanks for the great content! The Gorilla Monsoon is in the running, and I'm thinking I might swap out the heavy stock tires for these. In your review of the GM though you said the front handling got more "lively" when you swapped to smaller tires. This is not really something that I want so my question for you is do you think the GM is the type of bike to "mellow out" again if I put weight on the front? I know you've mentioned this happening with other bikes, and if I could keep the super stable handling with these 47mm tires by using a front rack that would be awesome! What do you think?
I think with the tire switch you'll drop some weight so it will accelerate and climb a little better. It will still be plenty stable though and the front end won't change that much.
@@PathLessPedaledTV Thanks so much! I'm going to test ride the GM and Journeyman today back to back and try to make a choice. I'm excited to get started in gravel!
I have the WTB Byways in 700x40, and while I like the handling and comfort of them, I get punctures pretty much on every ride. I’d be curious how the Pathfinders compare in that respect.
Great video. Gives me some more options to look at as I shop for a summer gravel/urdan tire to replace my super aggressive Schwalbe G-1 which I would highly recommend for loose gravel and off road.
Hello from Belgium. I rode the Gravelking sk 38c version for about 6 months and 1800 kms on every kind of roads, from smooth asphalt to dirt country roads (mix of gravel, brick backfill, stones,...), including fire roads and light singletrack. Very nice tires (comfy, fast, predictible, good cornering, mud capable) BUT they are a "puncture magnet". For me, they're not tough enough for the real stuff.
LOL, just bought a set of these to replace some 700c-42 SK's that were getting pretty thin. Never thought the SK's as being slow, but they're the first gravel specific tires I had experience with. Nobody likes to be behind a rider w/ SK's because the tread throws up so much fine gravel, so hopefully these won't do that. My main concern is how well these transition in turns, since there is a sizable solid center rib. Any feel for that? For muckier terrain I run the WTB Resolutes in 650b, and they are excellent. Roll fast on a pretty aggressive tread, the downside being they wear a little faster. Cornering is very predictable. Thanks for another good video Russ!
John Williamson Hi John, how have the switch panned out for you? I'm in the market and the SK seemed to be a good TL, balanced option that most seems to like, especially considering the price is often 10-20 $/€ lower that G-ones or similar. These sounds great but is the weight ok? Punctures? Handling and fitting etc
If you are odd enough to be running an 80's mullet like me (27.5/26), then I HIGHLY recommend the Schwalbe Table Top as a rear tire. It is only available in 26x2.25 (or 24") since it is a niche dirt jump tire, but it is akin to a gravel version of the Minion DHR! Cross paddles and blocks create highly predictable traction on unpredictable terrain yet they roll amazingly smooth on tarmac. Price is refreshingly affordable, plus weight is surprisingly low equating to a very SUPPLE tire! :) Perfect paired with a G-One Bite up front. Drifting balanced and confidently into oblivion - happy happy, joy joy!
I think these is going on my electric commuter in 650b instead of gravelking sk. At the moment i ride 80% road and sometimes gravel. I bought the bike because it came with gravelking but after 5 months i want to try something new.
Thanks! Any idea how long they last? The tread looks great but reminds me of the Clements/Donnelly tires which do not last long (but are not really meant to).
How do you ride on babyhead railroad rocks? We have a few paths here like that and I'm pretty sure they're only good for skinning knees and twisting handlebars.
Yes, more tires :-). Not that I am lazy, but please add in the video next time the other available options, not the only one you tested. For this tire we have 650b x 47mm, 700 x 38mm and 42mm (www.specialized.com/us/en/pathfinder-pro-2bliss-ready/p/157870 ) so I would say Spec plays safe, still keeping with narrow tires. Pity... (I already have Sawtooth also 700x42mm at max).
*EDiT 27mm internal width on the ENVE rims.
G27s then... I have those rims as well.. after a week or so are they still the same size. My WTB byways have gone past 48mm and it's getting close
would love to know what the tires are measuring at after some use.
I just order these tires based on your review, from Mikes Bikes. Thanks. Any quality tire sealant for the tubeless you recommend ?
Path Less Pedaled Russ I need a tip here.. I just bought a set of these tires I’ve put them on and they won’t line up proper, when I fill them with air they’re very off balance and “hoppy”
I’ve let the air out to about 10psi and rode it up the road and back to try and flat then into their spot but it’s not working.... help.
@@damonwhite2862 Hi Damon, make sure they are fully seated. You may need to inflate them to I higher pressure and pull on the tire until it seats. If you are still having trouble check out the park tool video on installing tires
This review is 4 years old but I keep coming back to these tires in 700x38. Perfect balance for my speed of 50/50 road/dirt rides.
Have you tried 700 x 42 mm as well?
@@nickgoogle4525 No, I haven’t. I imagine they’re just as nice for a more road-oriented gravel tire
What's your rim width? And any update?
Yes to more tire reviews! Your bike reviews were a huge help to me picking out a new bike and this one review alone was super helpful as I start navigating the thousands of tire options that exist. Thanks again.
like the direction you are going with reviewing more types of gear. The market is SUPER saturated and only getting deeper right now. These types of reviews help save us all time and help us choose what is best for our rides. thanks
+1 for the Pathfinder. Pleasantly surprised how well the 42 rolls on pavement.
The non competitive lifestyle of biking - what a simple but poignant way to phrase how so many of us feel ...
I am using these on my gravel bike. Giant Revolt Advanced 2. Size 700 by 38. I love them from my road rides. Center Ridge is so smooth. Off-road I have tackled mountain bike terrain with them. Surprisingly good traction while Offroad. I like this tire as a jack-of-all-trades. It gives me the ability to be ready for anything.
what kind of rim width were you using ?
Brave man right there taking a brand new, untested tire out on tour
Just tested these out on my new Crux 700 x 38c. 40 miles of pavement and 20 on hard packed/ some mud dirt. These things fly. Thought i was on a road bike the whole time on a nice clean road. My top speed was 32mph
what kind of rim width ?
Been using the Pathfinder Pros in 700x38 for several years now with great results in pretty much all categories, from all-pavement 200km rides to all-gravel 200km rides, commuting, touring, and everything in between ... they just sorta disappear underneath me, which is the best thing a tire can do for its rider. The only time they don't impress is in muddy conditions, and, as was mentioned in the video, well... few tires really do well in the mud and ALSO roll fast and do everything else well, so it's an acceptable trade-off in my mind; plus, if it's THAT muddy, I'm probably walking eventually anyhow. Recently built up a bike with 650b wheels, and getting the Pathfinder Pros in that size was an easy choice ... all of the same results, but even more comfortable with the extra volume. I will honestly shed a few tears if Specialized ever stops making the Pathfinders. I've gotten antsy in the past and tried a few hundred miles on various iterations of the GravelKing (SK, SS, and the original GK slicks in various sizes) and I just keep going back to the Pathfinders. They feel "right", aren't too expensive, last a long time, and do everything well.
100% agree
I've been looking for a tire with a specific tread pattern for a couple weeks, then I remembered seeing a video title from Russ that was titled "The best gravel tire." This is EXACTLY what I've been looking for! Thanks again Russ!
I agree with your review 100%. I have them in 700 x 42 and they roll fast on pavement, yet have good grip off road under average conditions. A great all rounder for sure.
Hello, I was wondering have they last you a long time?
@@parsaerfani7973 Yes. Surprisingly long.
this video is the reason i use these, thank you ... getting ready to buy another pair for another bike of mine. This time it will be the 700c instead of the 640b.
Thanks for this review. I have the Byways on my gravel bike now. The Byways are great on the road, but on loose gravel or dirt, they break loose on corners and don’t have enough grip for me to inspire a ton of confidence. The Pathfinder seems to offer some more grip. 🦾
I am currently searching for the best set of tires for my gravel and I think I have found the winner..... Please keep the videos like these, I like to know and learn what is out there.
Trying a lot of Gravel tires and for myself I made choice Specialized Pathfinder Pro 700x42c. This tires have the best rolling, smooth on gravel terrain.
Thanks for the review. I'm currently looking for tires that perform well on gravel but remain relatively fast on pavement. I found your review to be very helpful. Thanks!
pathfinder pros , faster then my old favorite gravel tire , gravel kings sk
I got my set 3 days ago and put them on my specialized sequoia. Have been going on various rides to test them on different terrain and I LOVE them. I prefer them much better than the stock sawtooth tires that the sequoia was sold with. Great review!
Pieter-Jan Van de Maele did you change your crank length when you moved to 650 also hows the clearance on the chain stays? I also have a sequoia and have been thinking about making the switch. Thanks
broadfjord sorry i had to clarify that I got the 700c version
Pieter-Jan Van de Maele right on thanks. I’m on the 42 resolutes right now and I’m liking them for the winter and i’m probably going to try the 45 riddlers/44 Snoqualmie pass this summer. Have fun with the tires, like the wind!
@@broadfjord7087 All last year I ran Riddler 37c 700 on a Specialized Sirus Carbon, bike about 85% road BUT when we go offroad and I include serious offroad (underbiking) in a mixed ride, those big side knobs bite and hold the line well and keep me from sliding in even when on edges of mudpits from Jeeps. At 900 miles the rear tire is done but the front has more life to give. Overall I feel they are fast enough, have good puncture protection, have predictable handling, low noise and i think supple enough. I do run tubeless but may go back to tubes because when deep in the woods and you flat it proved easier to swap or patch a tube than to clean the mess on the bead if the tubeless wasn't sufficent to seal and the bead popped. I am replacing with same tire as it has worked well for me. Hope that helps
tomordr thanks! If you can fit 42s the resolutes are pretty awesome as well. They shed mud great, have low rolling resistance and are confidence inspiring.
Thanks for the review! I have had good luck with specialized tires, I love my Sawtooths, they have been really durable, grippy, and fun. My only complaint and why I don’t like these kind of tires for racing, is because they are super heavy! For purely gravel racing the gravel kings or anything from compass is my jam! However always looking for something new, therefore looking forward to your tire series! Cheers!
Terrene Elwoods run 650x47 and have that center ridge with a little more grip. More prominent side knobs lock in on mixed terrain comfortably at 25-30 psi. Fast on the road like the PFP’s at closer to 35-40. Another one to consider in this “genre”.
Haven't had any experience with the other tires mentioned, but definitely agree on the review. Awesome tires, a note to that the knobs are very soft in compound which adds a layer of traction in the hard pack.
I am going to try and switch to the Pathfinder pro. I have the WTD by way and I don’t like the lack of grip in the corner. Love your channel you guys are great
I think that these tires provide a great balance for multiple surfaces other than mud which requires a use case specific tread to be viable
I´ve just installed my new pair of Pathfinder 700x42C on my AWOL COMP. Rode about 60 km on Tarmac and Cobbles, mainly up and downhill here in Rio de Janeiro (famous Vista Chinesa Climb). Need to ride more to have a better opinion. By the way, the tires did a good job going downhill at 9% steep full of sharp turns.
Thanks! After watching your video, I bought a pair of these online. I can't wait to check them out, as I ride a lot of pavement before I hit the dirt,. Cheers. P.S.- keep up the good work. Your videos are entertaining and informative, especially the Golden Saddle and Hog Farms vids.
Great channel with practical and honest advice. Thank you all
I really like the gear wrap up reviews. they have a very real world feel to them.
Thanks for the review. I have wtb byways on my Journeyman. I am running them fairly hard but have over 2000 miles (commuting) and still going strong
Riding them 11 months later you still loving the Byways? I just bought a pair to replace my stock Horizons on my Midnight Special, haven’t mounted them yet.
Do you think those will work for singletrack? I rise a lot of single track on my journeyman.
I've been looking at the Priority Apollo bike which comes with 700c 40mm WTB Byway tires and I am really disheartened to see practically every reviewer get a flat on their Byways. I love that they have the flat strip down the middle for road riding and grip on the sides for trail. I will be moving to Tokyo (lots of city riding) and doing some bikepacking every chance I get, but I'm afraid of getting a puncture every time I go off road.
I've been liking the Vittoria Terreno lineup myself. Just rode through WI, MN, and upper peninsula of MI on 700x38 Terreno Mix tires to give them a try. Those are awesome on dirt roads and rail trails, and a little slower on pavement. The Terreno Dry tires I've done over 1k miles on as well, those are fast on everything, but the rear tire does wear out faster. I'm trying out a set of Terreno Zeros now since I'm doing more miles on pavement this year. All of them have that very nice plush ride Vittoria is known for when it comes to their 120tpi tires. I really like this series, and going to stock up on a whole bunch of them to last a few years.
Curious what you think of the above mentioned tires a year later? I am on a the search for a fast rolling gravel race tire.
700x38 on the SOMA Wolverine Commuter. These tyres are fast! Same power in relatively same weather conditions/traffic and my commute to work has gone up by 1.6mph vs Schwalbe Almotion. Pumped up to 80PSI and they are proper road mile munchers. Drop to 30-35PSI and they roll over towpaths and forest roads effortlessly with plenty of grip.
do you really run them that low? it says 50 PSI minimum on the specialized site
SOLD! this is what I needed to hear. - THANKS
Thank you!! Been looking for a good review on these for ages. Spot on, keep the content coming!
Love how you introduced your channel. Non competitive… adventuring…. Keep it up. And what about the panracer ss
i just bought the 700c 38mm version for my cross bike, loving them so far
Buddy how did the 700cx38mm goes? Are they true to size when mounted on rims or wider? Cant decide between 38&42. Thanks.
Would love an answer for my crux
Go with the 38s after running 42s I wish I'd gone with 38s. These things collect mud like none other and having the extra space helps. Clearly if you can fit 50s or some insanely large tire. I would also say these fit a little big which is strange because the other specialized tires I have run small.
Do like the tire reviews. As a novice. Still you would not believe the pile of tires I have that I tried. Also air preasure advice is also welcome
Thanks
2:38 I recognize that spot in SLO County! Just thru the intersection of Yerba Buena & Hwy 1 N/B leaving Morro Bay! Sort of my backyard! Loving the Pathfinders on my new '21 Sirrus X 5.0. Fast on the road, set up tubeless with ease. Only minimal gravel experience so far but I can tell when these wear out, they'll be getting replaced with the same.
I have three bikes running different tires with a tubeless setup. Mostly ridden on 50/50 gravel asphalt roads
On my Cannondale Topstone is running gravelking sk. Nice on gravel , slow on road. Picked some staples pretty quickly but sealed fast with tubeless sealant.
WTB byways on a 3T Exploro, fast, I can keep up with a group in mid 20’s no prob. Slippery on wet leaves tho and no real great at braking except on pavement.
I have Pathfinder Pros running on a Cannondale X4 cyclocross bike. These are very speed, not as supple as the byways, so a harsher ride but very puncture resistant and roll really nice on asphalt, so much I’ve been using them all year as a commute bike for my 34 miles round trip commute.
What tire would you recommend for a 26er. Been trying to find something similar that's not too heavy.
I just started running these on a DT Swiss 1501 rim on my Trek Checkpoint SL5. These rims are 28 internal, 33 external. The 42mm casing bumped out to 44mm. I have not run them on my other wheelset, a more standard 23/26 Bontrager setup, but they are meaty. I like how they roll, and the extra width does make up for the lack of toothiness. I don’t feel any slower than I was on Schwalbe g-one 38mm.
Thanks Russ! I just mounted a set on my Breezer Radar, and I can’t wait to try them. I am replacing a set of the Gravel Kings, because I wanted something that rolls faster on pavement without giving up too much on the gravel. Enjoyed the review as always!
Info is great on your channel. I wish this episode came out two weeks ago, as I just purchased GravelKings.
You'll love them honestly.
Great tip on these tires. Specialized can tally at least my purchase to Path Less Pedaled.
Always very good tests !
Just got some VeeRubber Zilent 650bx47c tires and they're so rad! The name is awful but if you don't want to shill out $60+ for tires then these are so good! Would like to hear your opinion on them.
Great review. I'm thinking of getting a set of these tires for the new wheels I'm going to purchase for my Cannondale Lefty 3.
I had Specialized Sawatooth 700x42. But I was looking something faster that I wonder how WTB will be on my bike. But after Your reveiev I think I have to look more carefully to this tire 😊
I gotta give some love to my recently purchased Teravail Sparwoods. (27.5x2.1) They shred. Period. Only slightly buzzy on asphalt.
Thank you. I will try them on my Crux now that cyclocross is over and I'll be riding 60% road 40% gravel.
how about doing a comparison review between the Specialized Pathfinder Pro 2bliss VS Specialized Trigger Pro 2bliss?
I've got these tires on my gravel bike (38mm x 700c) but as I'm new to off-road riding I have nothing to compare it with so it was great to hear your thoughts on it as I keep getting asked about them. I've enjoyed them but I'm comparing it to a 25mm road tire and a 32mm marathon plus tire so these ones are lush off road compared to both of those 😀
Definitely more supple than a 25mm road and Marathon Plus (great flat protection but a little dead feel). If you want a truly eye opening experience in terms of possibilities of wide tires, try some Compass tires if you can find them. Supple and quick!
@@PathLessPedaledTV I've made a note thanks for the tip! The gravel bike is on loan so when it comes time to give it back in a few months I think I may be doing a little shopping for an off road bike (and likely my husband too!)
Awesome. Have fun shopping :)
I have 2 sets of tires for my bike. Both wheel-sets (DT Swiss CR 1600) are exactly the same except for the tires. On one wheel-set I have Schwalbe Marathon plus 700x32 (with inner tubes) and on the other I have Gravelking SK 700x43 (tubeless). I was really surprised that the 700x43 are actually lighter!! The tubeless arrangement really makes a difference to weight. Off-road the Gravelkings are soooooo much nicer to ride. I was laughing out loud when I was trying them for the first time. I use the 700x32 for regular commuting on regular roads, but I'm kinda wondering now if the wider 700x43 is just better overall. I can feel the extra drag of the wider tires on regular roads, but they're definitely much more comfortable. For info, I run the marathon plus at about 65psi and the Gravelking at 40psi (at least for now - I'll check out other pressures over different terrains).
Great review with super cycle footage too! 😎😎😎Hope you’re well👍👍👍
When I bought my Topstone, I swapped the WTB Nano TCS 40c tires for the Pathfinder Pro 42c. I have a good amount of paved and gravel roads around me to ride and love these tires. My friend is choosing the Trigger Pro 2Bliss for his gravel bike. I'm curious how they compare to the Pathfinder Pros. Maybe your next video. Keep up the good work.
I'm going to make the same exact swap today. I'd love to see PLP review the Topstone. Are you running tubeless?
No issues with the 42c on your topstone? I was going to go with 38c but if 42c works might as well!
Hi, have you tried the Kenda alluvium pro yet? I'm in doubt between the Kenda aluvium pro and the Specialized pathfinder pro, I use them mostly on paved roads.
I look closely at this tire. Thanks for a review.
Thanks. Good information
Thanks for such a detailed (and personal) review... I was wondering how you would compare this and other gravel-specific tires to something more on the trekking side, like a Schwalbe Marathon?
Trekking tires favor flat protection over ride quality. So they will typically ride a lot more sluggish and feel stiffer over all at the same pressures.
I was thinking about checking those out. Good Info. Thanks
Great review, subbed! Need some help with tire selection, please. Building some 650b wheels for our road tandem so we can use it for gravel rides and races. Curious what tubeless tires you'd recommend if our goals are prioritized like this: 1. flat protection/durability 2. grip on fire road type riding and 3. efficiency on-road. Tandems are really hard on tires because of combined weight, harder to pick lines, and inability to lift up on the bike to "float" over an upcoming obstacle (actually sounds like loaded gravel touring 🤔). Can get 47mm in back, and probably up to 2.1 in front and want to max out the widths for optimal suspension/grip for two. Looking at the GravelKing SK plus version for flat protection. @Path Less Pedaled, any experience with the plus version of these tires? They come in a 650x47. Weight of the tire isn't as big of a factor. Thanks for any advice and input!
The S-Works Pathfinder Pro’s are incredible. Too bad they only make them in 42’s. You prefer them over the Gravel King SK? What are your top tires in 2023/24?
I DO want more tire reviews please. However I’m quite concerned about durability. Maybe you can do one about puncture resistance. For long distance touring should I only go with the schwalbe marathon plus (seems less popular amongst gravelers) or are their other gravel and cx tires that are just as puncture resistant? -Corey
If puncture resistance is the most important thing to you, then definitely go with the Marathon Plus. We used those riding cross country and probably only got less than 5 flats.
Hi I’m pretty new to gravel riding. Will these go on a Poseidon redwood? I think a less aggressive tire would benefit me better. Thanks
Tyre reviews 🤔🤔 Yes please 😉😉
Yeah!! If you're ever in Colorado, feel free to reach out if you need a (free) guide!
Good point about rim width.
Nice-looking tire, thank you for the review. My road riding (commuting) often *is* mixed terrain; the roads around here can be terrible. I'm currently riding Specialized Hemisphere Armadillo 38s on my heavy hybrid, chosen for their puncture resistance. So far so good; only one bit of wire worked its way in in almost 3 years. So how well do those Pathfinders work with glass, wire, sharp gravel, potholes, and other fun and exciting road debris?
would you say for a paved/loose gravel tour - > pathfinder vs Schwalbe G-One ?
I’ve gone through 2 byways over the last few months - huge great holes in that can’t be repaired. Maybe I’m just unlucky. Do you know if these have a thicker protection system? Do they feel a bit more sturdy? Thanks for the review / love the channel!
Where were you getting the holes? On the tread or sidewall? I think these are probably par with the byways. A bit more built up on the center tread, but otherwise similar sidewalls.
@@PathLessPedaledTV It's mainly been the tread. First time it was on gravel - second time just riding down paved road. photos.app.goo.gl/iHKgmsvFChhLWbgSA Not sue these tires can handle New York! Any thoughts on a similar style road plus tire with better protection?
very interesting, thanks. Any comparison you could share between those specialized and also the well known Hutchinson overide TLR?
Just received as a gift a pair of the hutchinson to replace my Specialized roadsport (60 tpi) tires and wondering if I should either swap to Hutchinson, stay this way or exchange the hutchinson with new Specialized Pathfinder Pro 2Bliss
The hutchinson have slightly more grip in the middle while a bit less on the shoulders.
How do these compare to a Compass Rene Herse tires?
Hi, Have you any review / feedback on any Teravail 650b tyres? A comparision between the Teravail Washburn / WTB Byway would be useful. Loving the channel btw. :-)
Hello. Great video! Are they 1 millimeter smaller? Will they be small?
At 80psi, did your say pathfinder pro 38mm is close to say 30mm roadbike tire at 80psi?
What is the Recommended tire pressure for these tires
Looking for a review comparison of the GravelKings SK vs SS. Thanks
Please test Jan's new Rene Herse Juniper Ridge tires!
I have a 2017 Specialized Roubaix and I read of a guy who did a conversion to 650x40, but called it very tight. I'm thinking of doing the conversion to 650x38mm for being sure. Would you deem that wide enough for gravel riding without singletrack?
That's a pretty good width depending on the roads in your area. Some places it is pretty smooth and hardpack. Here in Montana it would be borderline on many roads.
Hey Russ! I'm about to buy my first gravel bike and have been using your channel a lot for research so thanks for the great content! The Gorilla Monsoon is in the running, and I'm thinking I might swap out the heavy stock tires for these. In your review of the GM though you said the front handling got more "lively" when you swapped to smaller tires. This is not really something that I want so my question for you is do you think the GM is the type of bike to "mellow out" again if I put weight on the front? I know you've mentioned this happening with other bikes, and if I could keep the super stable handling with these 47mm tires by using a front rack that would be awesome! What do you think?
I think with the tire switch you'll drop some weight so it will accelerate and climb a little better. It will still be plenty stable though and the front end won't change that much.
@@PathLessPedaledTV Thanks so much! I'm going to test ride the GM and Journeyman today back to back and try to make a choice. I'm excited to get started in gravel!
Could you compare Pathfinder to Vittoria Terreno Dry?
I don't think I am willing to go any narrower than my 700c x 45 WTB Riddler.
I have the WTB Byways in 700x40, and while I like the handling and comfort of them, I get punctures pretty much on every ride. I’d be curious how the Pathfinders compare in that respect.
I've ridden mine (38x700c) for 5,000 miles and no flats. Tubeless using Stan's, refreshed every 3 months and stored in my home when not riding.
Great video. Gives me some more options to look at as I shop for a summer gravel/urdan tire to replace my super aggressive Schwalbe G-1 which I would highly recommend for loose gravel and off road.
I’m down with some tire reviews, but don’t forget about us 700cc people
they come 700cc 38/42mm also
What's 700cc? The size of your engine?
😛
hush ... lol
Great video, would you be able to link products in the description with future product discussions? thank you
Hows the panaracer gravelking sk 700*43 nile blue
For touring
Hello from Belgium. I rode the Gravelking sk 38c version for about 6 months and 1800 kms on every kind of roads, from smooth asphalt to dirt country roads (mix of gravel, brick backfill, stones,...), including fire roads and light singletrack. Very nice tires (comfy, fast, predictible, good cornering, mud capable) BUT they are a "puncture magnet". For me, they're not tough enough for the real stuff.
I have those in 42mm they came with my Specialized Sirrus but Id like to try the Schwalbe G One All Arounds they seem better option
How would you compare this to the WTB Venture (650b Tubeless.) Thanks! You're great!
I'm toying with the idea of putting gravel tires on a fixie bike for NYC terrible roads? any insight on that?
Joseph Dailey do it
How do they compare to the Specialized Sawtooth?
Specialized newest design gravel tire, their website said pathfinders have more cornering grip and roll faster
What is that front bag you have on your bike?
LOL, just bought a set of these to replace some 700c-42 SK's that were getting pretty thin. Never thought the SK's as being slow, but they're the first gravel specific tires I had experience with. Nobody likes to be behind a rider w/ SK's because the tread throws up so much fine gravel, so hopefully these won't do that. My main concern is how well these transition in turns, since there is a sizable solid center rib. Any feel for that?
For muckier terrain I run the WTB Resolutes in 650b, and they are excellent. Roll fast on a pretty aggressive tread, the downside being they wear a little faster. Cornering is very predictable.
Thanks for another good video Russ!
John Williamson Hi John, how have the switch panned out for you? I'm in the market and the SK seemed to be a good TL, balanced option that most seems to like, especially considering the price is often 10-20 $/€ lower that G-ones or similar. These sounds great but is the weight ok? Punctures? Handling and fitting etc
If you are odd enough to be running an 80's mullet like me (27.5/26), then I HIGHLY recommend the Schwalbe Table Top as a rear tire. It is only available in 26x2.25 (or 24") since it is a niche dirt jump tire, but it is akin to a gravel version of the Minion DHR! Cross paddles and blocks create highly predictable traction on unpredictable terrain yet they roll amazingly smooth on tarmac. Price is refreshingly affordable, plus weight is surprisingly low equating to a very SUPPLE tire! :) Perfect paired with a G-One Bite up front. Drifting balanced and confidently into oblivion - happy happy, joy joy!
anyone tried Vittoria Adventure Trail 38c? or Donnelly Strada USH 40c?
I think these is going on my electric commuter in 650b instead of gravelking sk. At the moment i ride 80% road and sometimes gravel. I bought the bike because it came with gravelking but after 5 months i want to try something new.
Thanks! Any idea how long they last? The tread looks great but reminds me of the Clements/Donnelly tires which do not last long (but are not really meant to).
Can't really speak to durability. Have only had a chance to ride them about 200 miles so far. But no signs of wear at this point.
Check out the maxxis tread lite, it's my favorite for all-rounder tarmac+ loose gravel
How do you ride on babyhead railroad rocks? We have a few paths here like that and I'm pretty sure they're only good for skinning knees and twisting handlebars.
Very slowly picking lines.
Yes, more tires :-). Not that I am lazy, but please add in the video next time the other available options, not the only one you tested. For this tire we have 650b x 47mm, 700 x 38mm and 42mm (www.specialized.com/us/en/pathfinder-pro-2bliss-ready/p/157870 ) so I would say Spec plays safe, still keeping with narrow tires. Pity... (I already have Sawtooth also 700x42mm at max).
Before I forget, any chance of a review on the Cannondale Topstone? Thanks!
Haven’t yet.
Just got these. Surprised by the suggested pressure range of 50-80 psi. Sounds insanely high for a tire of this size (42s)
If you watched our “Your Tires Are Lying to You” video you’d learn that those numbers have nothing to do with riding.
@@PathLessPedaledTV thanks for the reply! I’ll check it out
How does it compare to the Rene Herse Switchback ?
Slower and heavier but more grip.