The Gravel Revolution: Wider Tires for Wilder Rides

Gravel biking is taking a thrilling turn as bike manufacturers cater to adventure seekers by pushing tyre clearance limits further than ever. The gravel racing scene is buzzing with news that 2.2-inch (55.88mm) mountain bike tyres are fast becoming the norm. Why? They enable riders to delve deeper into rugged terrains and conquer challenging backwoods trails.

While many gravel bikes can accommodate a mountain bike tyre, the selection officially designed for wider options remains notably limited. Take the latest Cannondale SuperX, which tops out at 51mm in front and 48mm in the rear—definitely not the widest in the market.

The Trend is Clear: Wider Tyres Aren't Just a Fad

As more adventure-savvy gravel riders embrace these broader tyres, several brands are beginning to expand their gravel bike offerings to accept super-wide options. The Santa Cruz Stigmata, for example, officially allows for a 50mm tyre but has seen pro riders like three-time Life Time Grand Prix champion Keegan Swenson manage to fit 2.25-inch Maxxis tyres during the grueling SBTGRVL race.

Top 4 Must-Have Gravel Bikes for MTB Tyres

1. Lauf Seigla: The Gravel Titan

The Lauf Seigla stands out with its impressive 57mm tyre clearance, allowing for robust MTB tyre installation without compromising a fast and racy feel, thanks to its 425mm back end. With the potential to take on unforgiving gravel races like The Rift in Iceland—spanning 200km through volcanic landscapes—this bike is built for adventure. And its legacy dates back to 2017 when its predecessor, the True Grit, already boasted a then-impressive 45mm clearance.

2. Allied ABLE: Redesigned for Speed

The US brand Allied has relaunched its ABLE gravel bike, now optimized to fit a hefty 57mm tyre. The sleek design has ditched the bulky raised driveside chainstay, making way for aerodynamic lines while still being a favorite among top gravel racers like Payson McElveen.

3. Argon 18 Dark Matter: The All-Rounder

Meet the Argon 18 Dark Matter, your modern gravel bike with all the bells and whistles. With compatibility for the latest SRAM drivetrains and room for 57mm tyres, this bike is ready for any challenge—whether it's a rigorous race or an extended backcountry adventure.

4. Salsa Cutthroat: For the Ultimate Explorer

Pioneering the gravel bike category with its Warbird, Salsa pushes boundaries further with the Cutthroat. Designed with the ethos of exploration in mind, it boasts a maximum clearance of 2.4 inches, accommodating muscle-bound MTB tyres thanks to the MTB Boost spacing. With ample mounting points, it’s primed for long journeys.

The Future of Gravel Biking: A Blending of Worlds

As the lines between gravel and mountain bikes blur, it begs the question: are we witnessing the dawn of a new biking era? The rise of gravel bikes that comfortably fit MTB tyres indicates a shift towards more versatile, adventure-ready rides. Whether you're a racer looking to push limits or an explorer seeking new trails, the future looks wide and bright in the world of gravel biking!