04/21/2026
Gorge Gravel is this weekend. Make sure you have the right tires for the race. Is bigger better? The great gravel tire debate continues
A bigger gravel tire (think ~40–50mm) can completely change how your bike feels out on rough roads—and for most riders, it’s a big upgrade in both comfort and confidence.
More comfort = less fatigue
A larger tire holds more air volume, which lets you run lower pressure. That means it absorbs chatter, washboard, and small bumps instead of transferring them to your body—saving energy over long rides.
Better traction and control
With more rubber on the ground, bigger tires give you improved grip on loose gravel, sand, and corners. You’ll feel more planted, especially when descending or riding technical sections.
Fewer flats (especially tubeless)
Lower pressures + higher volume = less chance of pinch flats and better resistance to sharp impacts. Tubeless setups with bigger tires are especially reliable on chunky terrain.
More confidence at speed
When the road gets rough or unpredictable, a bigger tire smooths things out and gives you a more stable ride—so you can stay relaxed and keep your momentum.
The trade-off?
Slightly more rolling resistance on smooth pavement—but modern gravel tires are surprisingly fast, and for most Gorge-style riding, the added comfort and control far outweigh any minor speed loss.
Bottom line: Bigger tires let you ride longer, smoother, and with more confidence—especially on the kind of mixed, rough terrain we see around here.
