That is one issue with the gravel roads here, they get destroyed easier than paved roads by Mother Nature, even the paved once get to feel the pain as you could see. (Although it actually looks way more tame on video than in real life) Typhoons and floods are getting more and more common as well which doesn’t help. That big gravel climb was talking about at the end finally repaired last year, but it got destroyed again the same year... 😿
the best 70/30 pavement/off-road bike tires ever made, hands down. They are blazing fast on pavement and very supple and they will handle a LOT more than you'd imagine on chunky gravel. Proud owner.
I have Schwalbe all round TLE currently, ride average 50/50 gravel/ dirty roads and some dirt - needing to replace soon. do you think I would be happier with the SS? Going to assume they would be a little quicker on pavement , but would they be just as confident and sure footed on your basic gravel while riding fast and stupid ?
I’ve got a video on my Vittorias Terreno zero tyres which are RAPID on road with a corsa inspired centre but didn’t puncture on a 150mile bikepacking trip last week over some horrendous gravel and single track. They have blown me away.
Thanks for the video. The SS are just becoming more available here (UK) at a premium over other GKs unfortunately but look really interesting, especially as we generally ride to the rides...
I went with the GK slicks 700x38c based on your recommendation (and others) last year. It lasted me 800miles (1300km) when it wore down through the casing. I'm now on the WTB Byways also (700x38c), and have over 1200miles (2000km) on them and looks like they will last another 1200miles. The center slick tread on the Byway is definitely thicker than the GK slicks. But I wondering if GK SS is the same as the slick or thicker? Even though the Byways are more expensive, they still have lower lifetime costs given they will last 2-3x as long compared to the GK.
I've re watched a few older videos of yours lately and i have to say that you feel much more at ease in front of the camera now, and it's fucking great. I bet you notice that as well. A bit more of your personality comes through and that makes for a more fun and compelling video. Please keep going, i love it. 😀
I don't understand all the hate in biking reviews comments. This is his opinion that he is sharing for free. Not to sell it and even if he was why hate the hustle?
@@jonathonto8075 people get suspicious when somebody advertises a product and have profit from it. because it may be shit but no refunds LOL. well, whatever. also, it's good to have many reviews from different guys.
Shop employees generally sell every tire outside of tires from bike manufacturers they don't stock. Whatever you buy from them gives them roughly equal profit
I just ordered a pair of GK SS (700x38 ) w/Enve G23. What pressure were you riding them at? I also use GK slicks (700x32) w/Enve 3.4AR for group rode rides. Absolutely love the GK’s. Ride safe and ride often. Peace.
I thought I rode them at 25psi for the first part of the ride.. thought they felt very rough, then realized I’ve put in 35 and read the gauge wrong... let out plenty of air probably to around 25ish and they felt more like I’m used to with the SK’s
Thanks. Was wondering about those tires. Good info. Sure hope we don't get another typhoon season like the last two years, or they may never repair the roads again.
What a beautiful ride and a gorgeous video! I like the fact that you stressed how cost-effective the Gravelking SS tires are. These are my favorite tires currently. Very fast on the road and capable of everything off road.
apart from a bit more wheight, performance wise there shouldnt be a anything in between the SS and the slicks for road riding, with the added benefit of better cornering when leaving the tarmac behind.
Always look forward to your videos such a great combo of whimsy and info and great shots. I have also been contemplating whether or not to get a 650b’s now i need to get them lol
Is there any way to see the routes you are talking about? Like Strava or Komoot? Just stumbled on you canal and I would love to see some more of these gravel rides and maybe one day fly out to japan to ride them myself.
Nice videos and like your opinions on tires...I'm thinking of either getting SS plus in 38 or Specialized Pathfinder for my gravel bike...I wonder how is the tread life on the SS or Panaracer in your experience?
Sorry I have not ridden them enough to comment on that. In general though I have gotten the impression that Gravelkings wear a bit faster than “normal” (I’m guessing it’s due to the lighter weight)
you should consider putting berd spokes on your gravel wheels. saves you over 100g and makes the ride alot more comfortable. installed them on my bike, its amazing stuff.
Hey Tobias, isn't there an overview online where you can check for open/closed roads? It seems to happen pretty often in Japan that you end up at a closed road and I wonder if those get documented somewhere online.
There is in most cases.. but rarely these super tiny roads. And it mostly refers to cars. The first road in video has been closed to cars for 3 years, but was still passable by bike last year... Personally I rarely plan out a whole ride, and like to explore, so a close road usually lead me to something new
Which bike is that black bike? Looks sickk.. 😎 & also what are your thoughts on your open bike with pressfit bb? Does it creek? & if not do you think all gravel/(all bikes in general) bikes should have threaded bb?
Black one is an Open Up classic (rapha edition) Never had a single creak from the BB. All but one of my previous bikes has been pressfit and Haven’t had any problems personally, so I happily take the weight saving it gives me. No question that bsa etc is easier to work with though.
Thanks for the great content! Ist very cool to see what it is like to cycle in Japan. I'd appreciate your advice from your experience with GravelKing. Im buying my first tires and can't decide between 35 or 38c slick. I love speed but the pavement quality isnt the best here. Should i stick with slicks or opt for SK or SS?
Watching and re- watching any videos of Channel is pure pleasure. You learn, you travel, you laugh, you have bikes. Great channel, hope to see adventure rides more in 2021 ( damn 2020.!?). Ps: really loves the morning routine vid. Can you get one for PM rides or night rides?
I used the 42mm Pathfinder for the Mawson Trail recently. ZERO flats and then pumped them up and rode all the way back home after the trail was finished. PS: Cut that steerer down boss before it fails on you. Or put in an 80mm steerer plug so you safe :)
WTB Byways are mediocre with tubes, and don't set up tubeless well. I've had great luck with the Vittoria Terreno line but would like to try some Gravelkings too
Hey, wanted to ask you if you thought about sending your crashed frame to Luescher Teknik. After watching hambinis video, seeing that frame cut UP (lol) could help many people.
ReneHerse EL + latex inner tubes, say Vittoria = no milk-leaking sidewalls + superb puncture protection + super supple ride + a bit of pumping before every ride. Just my opinion based on my 5 years of punctureless experience with Panaracer made tires without anti-flat casing.
Riding WTB Venture tires on my Open for a few days now. Not quite happy as they are slower than I'd like on the road and don't have as much grip on wet forest floors, but I know those two are pretty much mutually exclusive. I was running Schwalbe G-One Bite which seemed like the perfect compromise, but when I got fatter they started rubbing…
@@sergioalejandrovazquezrodr3083 Have been very good so far. Ridden them hard on all terrains, not one puncture. Noticeably better than the full GK slicks in loose corners.
I have always (as has most other people) ridden different tyres front/rear on my mtb. Why not on gravel? I'm tempted to try these on the rear with the SK"s on the front.... Thought about trying that?
I’m on my second chain now... if you don’t care about weight, I don’t think I’d recommend it... not major issues, but I feel it has a tendency to rust (or corrode) around the pins easier than say the DA/XTR chain. I plan to try the gold version to see if that changes anything, I’m still a few thousand km’s away from needing to change it though. If it is for the weight though... for the price it’s hard to beat. Cheers!
I bought the Gravel King SS Plus a month ago and have 400 miles of pavement on it and the rubber tire whiskers have never worn off yet. How long do they take usually?
I’ve always been a Gravelking fan, the Rene herse (extralight) ride marginally nicer but they always let me down with way too much upkeep with leaking side walls and all that mess, and with the price in mind I’ve given up on Rene heres for now at least. Gravelking are just about the same weight as Rene Herse extralight without the headaches. The standard casing are almost always heavier then GK. The Rene herse looks so damn nice though, I wouldn’t be surprised if I convinced my self to try it again in the future 😜
@@ridesofjapan Just some additional info... (I do like the ride quality/price of the GravelKing so not a hater by any means) I'm riding Rene Herse in 700c X 38, (on Hunt Carbon) and 650b X 48 (on a very basic Stans aluminum), both extra light, both set up tubeless. This setup has been in place for maybe 6 months. At least in this instance, very easy to seat/seal, no sidewall weeping and they both hold air really well... like losing only maybe 3-5 psi per week.. it's been really good so far.. YMMV.
@@ridesofjapan the cost is definitely an issue. The main reason I was asking is because I wasn't sure if you had time to wear the RH tyres out or not. My frustration with the RH are the same and once I had 6 cuts on my side wall in one weekend adventure. That meant a lot of time sewing and patching the tyre to be able to ride on. GK are at least very reliable.
Rafael de Giacomo Araujo they have never stayed on long enough to wear down. (Tone fair, Lately no tires of mine gets worn down before I get the urge to change)
I'm trying out a new set of WTB Exposure 30 and so far I have not had luck with them holding air. I pump them up to about 70psi and 8 hours later they might have 5psi left, and this has been going on all week. I did a 60 mile ride today and I didn't think I was going to make it back without stopping to add some C02. I can't find my hand pump I usually carry. But anyway, I am disappointed because of the many number of tires I've used these tires are the worst for holding air.
Sorry to hear that. What I found that have helped me in the past is to add some more sealant try to distribute it around the sidewall and leave the tires horizontally over night. If lost air over night, pump them up and leave them the other face up over night again. Hope you can get it to work... I know that feeling 😔
@@ridesofjapan I put tubes in them tonight. I ain't going to mess around with this and accepted that if I flat while out on the trail I will just patch the tube. Sometimes old school is good too.
It absolutely fascinating seeing it in real life, the water had pressed 1 ton boulders underneath the tarmac... absolutely nuts. It looks pretty tame on video though.
I live in Japan. If you ride that closed gravel road on Sunday you should be fine because no construction work takes place on Sunday (or a national holiday for that matter). You just can ride through the work site no problem.
That's nice, some says cheap parts (weigh less because of poor materials) but expensive parts (weigh heavier than those cheap). But the real thing is, we need lightweight parts no matter the price is.😬
What are your preferred road tyres? I've been using Shwalbe Pro One and very happy with them but they only come up to 28mm! Would love a 38mm version..
I’m keep going back to Gravelking slick there as well. The price/weight/size is almost unbeatable. Pro one’s 30 on my extralites, haven’t touched them in months.... I’m very curious about the new tubeless velofex though.
I haven't actually tried the GK slicks. Just the SKs and they were great for gravel but felt way too sluggish on road thus the more road focused tyres. Wonder if the GK Slick is anywhere near as fast feeling. The velofex seem interesting. Max 28mm again same as Pro One.
I just switched to a specialized sawtooth tire. I have about 600 miles on it and it is a very nice all around tire and it is very smooth on the road. You should give those a try sometime.
I loved mine, daily commuter... until the gumwall dry-rotted a year later. Which is why I'm looking at the gravel kings. Are your sawtooths black wall?
I think mostly it’s due to an extra step in distribution, I’m sure taxes has something to do with it as well though. Panaracer is Japanese and made here as well so I think that’s one reason they are cheaper. Although I’ve seen them on amazon US for less than $40 as well.
Check out places like Backcountry/Competitive Cyclist. I've found regularly have GK slicks and SK for about $35-$38 per tire compared to $50+ for Byways.
The one downside to the SK I have found is that they flick up gravel bits much more. So if you're riding in a group, you won't be well liked. The SS look like the problem is solved!
I've been waiting for these tyres to reach th UK, while I've been waiting I got a set of 40mm Conti Terra Speeds. They have been amazing, I won't be getting the GK ss as the Conti's are super fast on road (nearly as fast as gp5000 tl) and superb off road.
Nuggi Nuss Lover I rode a pair of Gravel King 32c slick and set them tubeless. I have to replace my rear tyre after clocking about 1200 km due to puncture (which the sealant in tyre can seal), as the casing was worn to the point which all the wear-indicating dimples were all but almost disappeared
Really ?!? Wow.. never really looked in to proper Cross country tires, with definitely keep that in mind for the future. I wonder if that rolling resistance hold true on tarmac though. Cheers for the tip!
@@ridesofjapan To add to the weight weenie discussion I run 38mm Hutchinson Override - 350grams, fast rolling, light and good for combined tar and gravel riding
I‘m struggeling because of the weight difference to the slicks. Did you recognize the additional weight? Is cornering on Gravel so much better with the SS than the slick?
I’ve never ridden slicks in this size. Cornering is better with a bit of tread on the tire, no denying that, but depending on what type of gravel you ride, slicks can be just as fun :)
Rides of Japan I meant the GK Slicks in 700x38c - according to r2 they weight only 320g 😍 I could not find any lighter Tubeless Ready Tire in that size so far
I go back and for the between my Panaracer and Continentals. For road performance and handling feel I prefer the Conti-comp’s tubular (WOW how can I not use these ... rides!). For all around flat free riding either EVO A’s tubeless or tubed gravelkings. The gravekings have a wider and better handling feel to the EVO A’s but are heavier and not tubeless. Either case I have never flatted (knock on wood... obviously also very lucky) with any Panaracer products over the past 15 years of road use and the pick for long rides. So I keep coming back to Panaracer with both versions of the gravel kings (28mm std and winter with some pack dirt rides 26mm SK’s ... road bike) and EVO A. I plan to try their tubular next but until recently they were not available here in the US. I plan to try their new EVO 4 tubulars at 27mm maybe (?) when one of my Conti-Competitions sets wear out. Thanks for the great videos! Cheers.
Yeah, trying out a mates osmo pocket, first thing that happen is the morning is that I broke the wide angle lens I got for it 🤦♂️ View is so narrow I kept loosing the face tracking/focus... I like it though.
That's the problem, to find some REAL rough gravel here in Japan. Only some unpaved mountain roads has it. Even at such place as Arakawa river with a lot of light gravel I had no problems riding Conti GP5000 in 32mm width...
hey question. i live in tokyo. Been searching for a helmet. because we live in Japan of course naturally helmets being sold here are assumably `asian fit` or `wide fit`. do you buy you helmets directly from western countries or do you know of a place that has stock for us gaijin? i was thinking of hitting up some shops around Roppongi or something since alot of foreigners work and live around there. id probably buy online but id like to try them on first ya know. do you know the terminology for what they call western fit helmets here. i know アジアンフィット but i mean what in japanese would you call western melon. 欧米フィット？ i cant seem to even find much info online about this either.
jeimuzu shimoru as long as you don’t go for Japanese brands there should be no issues. giro, Met, kask etc don’t make a specific “fit” for japan from what I know
why don't you make (a diy project for a ~2l PET can) or buy an air tank (in favour of spending monay)? if you're messin around with a lot of tubeless stuff it really makes poping up tires easy on one blast.
I have a tubeless pump (with an air chamber) , but I always want to see how easy (or hard) it is setting up very thing with a normal floor pump first. Lately pretty much every tire I’ve tried I’ve manage to seat with just a floor pump.
I put a set of these in 700c x 32m on my road wheels for my Open. I find them okay, not very supple like Rene Herse. They sealed easily which was nice. My biggest complaint is how ugly GK tires are, especially the tan wall model. Aesthetically, I don't think Panaracer could design an uglier tire. I'm running Ultradynamico Cava Race in 650b which I love and I'll probably go back to RH for 700c, either be adventurous and try the Stampede Pass tubeless even though I shouldn't or Bon Jon in standard casing.
Agreed, GK brown casing is not very pleasing, which is why I’m back to black on all my tires... nothing beats Rene heres for looks... but I’m spent too much money on them just to come away disappointed every time... as beautiful as they are 💔
'The road ends here'
Don't think of it as the road ending - think of it as much needed gravel infrastructure starting.
That is one issue with the gravel roads here, they get destroyed easier than paved roads by Mother Nature, even the paved once get to feel the pain as you could see.
(Although it actually looks way more tame on video than in real life)
Typhoons and floods are getting more and more common as well which doesn’t help.
That big gravel climb was talking about at the end finally repaired last year, but it got destroyed again the same year... 😿
Japan is definitely top of my list to go ride when travel opens up again
the best 70/30 pavement/off-road bike tires ever made, hands down. They are blazing fast on pavement and very supple and they will handle a LOT more than you'd imagine on chunky gravel. Proud owner.
I have Schwalbe all round TLE currently, ride average 50/50 gravel/ dirty roads and some dirt - needing to replace soon. do you think I would be happier with the SS? Going to assume they would be a little quicker on pavement , but would they be just as confident and sure footed on your basic gravel while riding fast and stupid ?
What about wet pavement cornering and braking?
Have used these in 32 for group road rides. At 50psi. Sublime. When you’re comfortable you’re faster.
Haven’t even started watching it and I’m already happy.
New video, YAY
I’ve got a video on my Vittorias Terreno zero tyres which are RAPID on road with a corsa inspired centre but didn’t puncture on a 150mile bikepacking trip last week over some horrendous gravel and single track. They have blown me away.
Great video, mate! Both some familiar and unfamiliar terrain there, but all amazing! And, three deer... WOW!
Cheer mate!
Yeah that road is closed now so animals is slowly taking over hehe, also got a couple of monkeys, not on camera though.
I see a new RoJ video i stop what i'm doing and watch it right away. Never disappoints!
Thanks for the video. The SS are just becoming more available here (UK) at a premium over other GKs unfortunately but look really interesting, especially as we generally ride to the rides...
I went with the GK slicks 700x38c based on your recommendation (and others) last year. It lasted me 800miles (1300km) when it wore down through the casing. I'm now on the WTB Byways also (700x38c), and have over 1200miles (2000km) on them and looks like they will last another 1200miles. The center slick tread on the Byway is definitely thicker than the GK slicks. But I wondering if GK SS is the same as the slick or thicker? Even though the Byways are more expensive, they still have lower lifetime costs given they will last 2-3x as long compared to the GK.
What a road. Very impressive. Sure we cannot imagine what a typhoon can do, here in France.
I've re watched a few older videos of yours lately and i have to say that you feel much more at ease in front of the camera now, and it's fucking great. I bet you notice that as well. A bit more of your personality comes through and that makes for a more fun and compelling video. Please keep going, i love it. 😀
I've been waiting for someone who isn't a representative of a bike shop to talk about these. Thanks
I don't understand all the hate in biking reviews comments. This is his opinion that he is sharing for free. Not to sell it and even if he was why hate the hustle?
@@jonathonto8075 people get suspicious when somebody advertises a product and have profit from it. because it may be shit but no refunds LOL. well, whatever. also, it's good to have many reviews from different guys.
@@viachesslove9907a lot of those folks have also tried the most tires...
Shop employees generally sell every tire outside of tires from bike manufacturers they don't stock. Whatever you buy from them gives them roughly equal profit
"Slippy slidey". "loosey deucey". Never change, sir. Never change lol
thanks for the advice. i ride gravel and road in Fukuoka so your vid helped me make the decision to go with the GK SS tires.
Love your videos and your Swedish and my WTB's. Makes my day when you post!
“I couldn’t help myself” ... I had to watch this video and kudos ... it is greatly entertaining !
I rode my 700x38 tires this past weekend and they are terrific. They don't toss pebbles the way SK's do. And I agree, they do feel faster on pavement.
Just got in from my morning ride to this, great surprise! Hello from Phoenix AZ!
👋
Awesome! Look forward to these coming out in the UK. Enjoying the slick's thus far! 👍
Graeme Crompton I've been trying to find these in the UK but no luck so far. Do you by any chance know when the SS is becoming available in the UK?
@@PeteTlk No idea I'm afraid - just a matter of watching this space, I guess!
I have the SK's on my gravel bike and they've been amazing, the traction is much better than expected and they roll great on the pavement
I just ordered a pair of GK SS (700x38 ) w/Enve G23. What pressure were you riding them at? I also use GK slicks (700x32) w/Enve 3.4AR for group rode rides. Absolutely love the GK’s. Ride safe and ride often. Peace.
I thought I rode them at 25psi for the first part of the ride.. thought they felt very rough, then realized I’ve put in 35 and read the gauge wrong... let out plenty of air probably to around 25ish and they felt more like I’m used to with the SK’s
Nice video! What camera do you yose for such rides? Do you combine it with a gimbal?
Thanks. Was wondering about those tires. Good info. Sure hope we don't get another typhoon season like the last two years, or they may never repair the roads again.
Yeah, fingers crossed... but it feels like 2020 still have some bad voodoo yet to be unleashed 😰
What a beautiful ride and a gorgeous video! I like the fact that you stressed how cost-effective the Gravelking SS tires are. These are my favorite tires currently. Very fast on the road and capable of everything off road.
any thoughts on the SS vs slicks?
apart from a bit more wheight, performance wise there shouldnt be a anything in between the SS and the slicks for road riding, with the added benefit of better cornering when leaving the tarmac behind.
i like that frame bag
Always look forward to your videos such a great combo of whimsy and info and great shots. I have also been contemplating whether or not to get a 650b’s now i need to get them lol
what a trip ! you should test the new hutchinson touareg , i mount them and they are amazing, good cruise and grip !
Is there any way to see the routes you are talking about? Like Strava or Komoot? Just stumbled on you canal and I would love to see some more of these gravel rides and maybe one day fly out to japan to ride them myself.
Check this video about Riding in japan ua-cam.com/video/X-fwtmxrlt0/v-deo.html
Im one fan of your content since i've encountered your gravel bike💗🙋♂️
Nice videos and like your opinions on tires...I'm thinking of either getting SS plus in 38 or Specialized Pathfinder for my gravel bike...I wonder how is the tread life on the SS or Panaracer in your experience?
Sorry I have not ridden them enough to comment on that. In general though I have gotten the impression that Gravelkings wear a bit faster than “normal” (I’m guessing it’s due to the lighter weight)
Makes me really miss riding in Japan!
you should consider putting berd spokes on your gravel wheels. saves you over 100g and makes the ride alot more comfortable. installed them on my bike, its amazing stuff.
Hey Tobias, isn't there an overview online where you can check for open/closed roads? It seems to happen pretty often in Japan that you end up at a closed road and I wonder if those get documented somewhere online.
There is in most cases.. but rarely these super tiny roads. And it mostly refers to cars. The first road in video has been closed to cars for 3 years, but was still passable by bike last year...
Personally I rarely plan out a whole ride, and like to explore, so a close road usually lead me to something new
Which bike is that black bike? Looks sickk.. 😎 & also what are your thoughts on your open bike with pressfit bb? Does it creek? & if not do you think all gravel/(all bikes in general) bikes should have threaded bb?
Black one is an Open Up classic (rapha edition)
Never had a single creak from the BB. All but one of my previous bikes has been pressfit and Haven’t had any problems personally, so I happily take the weight saving it gives me.
No question that bsa etc is easier to work with though.
I’ve put about 200 miles on my GK SS+. No complaints so far. They feel fast.
Good to hear 👍
So pumped for this vid!
Lol 😂 you have thm cranks & you are talking about tire prices.. 😂 Just kidding.. 😂. BUT WOULD YOU JUST LOOK AT IT!! ❤️❤️
Hehe, difference is that I don’t change crank every other month (only every other year 😂)
03:23 What gloves do you use to change the tire there? Do they have some sort of grippy palms?
Escaping Concrete Jungle some kind of work glove with that sticky rubber all I’ve the inside palm/fingers (cheap stuff, non bike specific)
Thanks for the great content! Ist very cool to see what it is like to cycle in Japan. I'd appreciate your advice from your experience with GravelKing. Im buying my first tires and can't decide between 35 or 38c slick. I love speed but the pavement quality isnt the best here. Should i stick with slicks or opt for SK or SS?
Didyou figure this out im on the same dilema, its eithr SS 35 or SS 38. so what did you went for? and how was it?
Watching and re- watching any videos of Channel is pure pleasure. You learn, you travel, you laugh, you have bikes. Great channel, hope to see adventure rides more in 2021 ( damn 2020.!?).
Ps: really loves the morning routine vid. Can you get one for PM rides or night rides?
May I ask what those handlebars that you are using? It looks nice and shallow!
ua-cam.com/video/dIbkUdWfKJI/v-deo.html
I used the 42mm Pathfinder for the Mawson Trail recently. ZERO flats and then pumped them up and rode all the way back home after the trail was finished.
PS: Cut that steerer down boss before it fails on you. Or put in an 80mm steerer plug so you safe :)
WTB Byways are mediocre with tubes, and don't set up tubeless well. I've had great luck with the Vittoria Terreno line but would like to try some Gravelkings too
Hey, wanted to ask you if you thought about sending your crashed frame to Luescher Teknik. After watching hambinis video, seeing that frame cut UP (lol) could help many people.
FYI you can add some tape with rough upper surface on your cf saddle so you won't slip... Some pro's on Hillclimb use them...
ReneHerse EL + latex inner tubes, say Vittoria = no milk-leaking sidewalls + superb puncture protection + super supple ride + a bit of pumping before every ride. Just my opinion based on my 5 years of punctureless experience with Panaracer made tires without anti-flat casing.
Riding WTB Venture tires on my Open for a few days now. Not quite happy as they are slower than I'd like on the road and don't have as much grip on wet forest floors, but I know those two are pretty much mutually exclusive. I was running Schwalbe G-One Bite which seemed like the perfect compromise, but when I got fatter they started rubbing…
Mine in 43mm just got delivered, first ride this weekend
What’s your opinion on them? Good on harsh surface and loose surface?
@@sergioalejandrovazquezrodr3083 Have been very good so far. Ridden them hard on all terrains, not one puncture. Noticeably better than the full GK slicks in loose corners.
Cheers mate, how satisfied are you with the Gravelking SemiSlick after 5 month?
Very satisfied, but being the year that it was I haven’t gotten to use them enough to give any kind of long term impressions.
@@ridesofjapan thanks!
I have always (as has most other people) ridden different tyres front/rear on my mtb. Why not on gravel? I'm tempted to try these on the rear with the SK"s on the front.... Thought about trying that?
I thought the same, gonna put a 43 mil sk on the front and a 38 ss on the rear
Great video like always! How has the pyc chain held up? Thinking about picking one up because of you :)
I’m on my second chain now... if you don’t care about weight, I don’t think I’d recommend it... not major issues, but I feel it has a tendency to rust (or corrode) around the pins easier than say the DA/XTR chain. I plan to try the gold version to see if that changes anything, I’m still a few thousand km’s away from needing to change it though.
If it is for the weight though... for the price it’s hard to beat.
Cheers!
Excellent battery life on that head unit, was it a Garmin 1030 plus?
No 530: ua-cam.com/video/heBQrKmuR5A/v-deo.html
Hi planning to buy gravel king ss. What is your topspeed and average speed on that tires on asphalt/paved flat roads? Thanks ride safe
I bought the Gravel King SS Plus a month ago and have 400 miles of pavement on it and the rubber tire whiskers have never worn off yet. How long do they take usually?
No idea, but that sounds promising
from previous experience.. you're more a fan of the Gravelking than the Rene Herse now? it it the expense or the performance?
I was thinking the same thing. Better just to stay with the compass/Rene hersr
I’ve always been a Gravelking fan, the Rene herse (extralight) ride marginally nicer but they always let me down with way too much upkeep with leaking side walls and all that mess, and with the price in mind I’ve given up on Rene heres for now at least.
Gravelking are just about the same weight as Rene Herse extralight without the headaches. The standard casing are almost always heavier then GK.
The Rene herse looks so damn nice though, I wouldn’t be surprised if I convinced my self to try it again in the future 😜
@@ridesofjapan Just some additional info... (I do like the ride quality/price of the GravelKing so not a hater by any means) I'm riding Rene Herse in 700c X 38, (on Hunt Carbon) and 650b X 48 (on a very basic Stans aluminum), both extra light, both set up tubeless. This setup has been in place for maybe 6 months. At least in this instance, very easy to seat/seal, no sidewall weeping and they both hold air really well... like losing only maybe 3-5 psi per week.. it's been really good so far.. YMMV.
@@ridesofjapan the cost is definitely an issue.
The main reason I was asking is because I wasn't sure if you had time to wear the RH tyres out or not. My frustration with the RH are the same and once I had 6 cuts on my side wall in one weekend adventure. That meant a lot of time sewing and patching the tyre to be able to ride on.
GK are at least very reliable.
Rafael de Giacomo Araujo they have never stayed on long enough to wear down. (Tone fair, Lately no tires of mine gets worn down before I get the urge to change)
I have an Open up as well, what is the frame bag you have on there? Do you have a larger one that you would recommend?
I’m a fan of apidura frame bags, they make half and whole bags as well
I'm trying out a new set of WTB Exposure 30 and so far I have not had luck with them holding air. I pump them up to about 70psi and 8 hours later they might have 5psi left, and this has been going on all week. I did a 60 mile ride today and I didn't think I was going to make it back without stopping to add some C02. I can't find my hand pump I usually carry. But anyway, I am disappointed because of the many number of tires I've used these tires are the worst for holding air.
Sorry to hear that.
What I found that have helped me in the past is to add some more sealant try to distribute it around the sidewall and leave the tires horizontally over night. If lost air over night, pump them up and leave them the other face up over night again.
Hope you can get it to work... I know that feeling 😔
@@ridesofjapan I put tubes in them tonight. I ain't going to mess around with this and accepted that if I flat while out on the trail I will just patch the tube. Sometimes old school is good too.
Absolutely crazy what happened to that road. Scares the living hell out of me, a central European city boy.
It absolutely fascinating seeing it in real life, the water had pressed 1 ton boulders underneath the tarmac... absolutely nuts.
It looks pretty tame on video though.
I live in Japan. If you ride that closed gravel road on Sunday you should be fine because no construction work takes place on Sunday (or a national holiday for that matter). You just can ride through the work site no problem.
I know, but I need to show some good behavior on youtube ;)
That's nice, some says cheap parts (weigh less because of poor materials) but expensive parts (weigh heavier than those cheap). But the real thing is, we need lightweight parts no matter the price is.😬
What are your preferred road tyres? I've been using Shwalbe Pro One and very happy with them but they only come up to 28mm! Would love a 38mm version..
I’m keep going back to Gravelking slick there as well. The price/weight/size is almost unbeatable.
Pro one’s 30 on my extralites, haven’t touched them in months.... I’m very curious about the new tubeless velofex though.
I haven't actually tried the GK slicks. Just the SKs and they were great for gravel but felt way too sluggish on road thus the more road focused tyres. Wonder if the GK Slick is anywhere near as fast feeling.
The velofex seem interesting. Max 28mm again same as Pro One.
I just switched to a specialized sawtooth tire. I have about 600 miles on it and it is a very nice all around tire and it is very smooth on the road. You should give those a try sometime.
I have those tyres on my bike also, they do roll well.
I loved mine, daily commuter... until the gumwall dry-rotted a year later. Which is why I'm looking at the gravel kings. Are your sawtooths black wall?
Drew R Yep all black with no fancy manufacturers matk.
Are those prices for wtb vs panaracer due to import costs? Panaracers are much more expensive in the united states.
I think mostly it’s due to an extra step in distribution, I’m sure taxes has something to do with it as well though.
Panaracer is Japanese and made here as well so I think that’s one reason they are cheaper.
Although I’ve seen them on amazon US for less than $40 as well.
Check out places like Backcountry/Competitive Cyclist. I've found regularly have GK slicks and SK for about $35-$38 per tire compared to $50+ for Byways.
Amazing riding. Great video, again!
How would you judge the puncture resilience of these tires?
No punctures yet is all I can say 😬
The one downside to the SK I have found is that they flick up gravel bits much more. So if you're riding in a group, you won't be well liked. The SS look like the problem is solved!
I had that problem on the SK when they were brand new.
Didn’t notice that as much on the SS
And the ride by the numbers 😀
I’ve also considered installing this tires, but after reading many complains about this tires puncture resistance, decided not to.
I've been waiting for these tyres to reach th UK, while I've been waiting I got a set of 40mm Conti Terra Speeds. They have been amazing, I won't be getting the GK ss as the Conti's are super fast on road (nearly as fast as gp5000 tl) and superb off road.
I heard they wear extremly quick?
Edit: I mean the terra speeds.
Nuggi Nuss Lover I rode a pair of Gravel King 32c slick and set them tubeless. I have to replace my rear tyre after clocking about 1200 km due to puncture (which the sealant in tyre can seal), as the casing was worn to the point which all the wear-indicating dimples were all but almost disappeared
@@nugginusslover476 I've heard that to, I've only done 160km on them so far so can't comment on wear.
which size are you comparing with the GP5000 in terms of being fast? 32?
@@ganchinho 32mm gp5000tl ran tubeless, Conti Terra speed 40mm ran tubeless
I noticed your buddy had a rear fender. Do you know where he got it?
Mark tells me they are Honjo fenders. Made in Tokyo.
why is a weight wheenie like you not on 2,1“ schwalbe thunderburts? they are only around 420g each and roll just 1-2w slower than the panaracer slicks
Really ?!? Wow.. never really looked in to proper Cross country tires, with definitely keep that in mind for the future.
I wonder if that rolling resistance hold true on tarmac though.
Cheers for the tip!
@@ridesofjapan To add to the weight weenie discussion I run 38mm Hutchinson Override - 350grams, fast rolling, light and good for combined tar and gravel riding
Non addix I think. My old pacestar liteskin are 415gm
Can I ask what helmet you are using? It looks nice.
Met trenta
I‘m struggeling because of the weight difference to the slicks. Did you recognize the additional weight? Is cornering on Gravel so much better with the SS than the slick?
I’ve never ridden slicks in this size.
Cornering is better with a bit of tread on the tire, no denying that, but depending on what type of gravel you ride, slicks can be just as fun :)
Rides of Japan I meant the GK Slicks in 700x38c - according to r2 they weight only 320g 😍 I could not find any lighter Tubeless Ready Tire in that size so far
I go back and for the between my Panaracer and Continentals. For road performance and handling feel I prefer the Conti-comp’s tubular (WOW how can I not use these ... rides!). For all around flat free riding either EVO A’s tubeless or tubed gravelkings. The gravekings have a wider and better handling feel to the EVO A’s but are heavier and not tubeless. Either case I have never flatted (knock on wood... obviously also very lucky) with any Panaracer products over the past 15 years of road use and the pick for long rides. So I keep coming back to Panaracer with both versions of the gravel kings (28mm std and winter with some pack dirt rides 26mm SK’s ... road bike) and EVO A. I plan to try their tubular next but until recently they were not available here in the US. I plan to try their new EVO 4 tubulars at 27mm maybe (?) when one of my Conti-Competitions sets wear out. Thanks for the great videos! Cheers.
New mic setup and possible new camera?
Yeah, trying out a mates osmo pocket, first thing that happen is the morning is that I broke the wide angle lens I got for it 🤦♂️
View is so narrow I kept loosing the face tracking/focus... I like it though.
I bought this tire wondering if i should put it on front or rear wheel? I will have slick specialized tire on other wheel.
The more aggressive to the front for traction, less aggressive to the back for less rolling resistance 😉
That's the problem, to find some REAL rough gravel here in Japan. Only some unpaved mountain roads has it. Even at such place as Arakawa river with a lot of light gravel I had no problems riding Conti GP5000 in 32mm width...
Lots of real rough gravel up here in Hokkaido.
Still a fan of 650B these days?
what bottle cages are you using? cheers
Arundle mandible (and fidlock on the downtube when using a framebag)
hey question. i live in tokyo. Been searching for a helmet. because we live in Japan of course naturally helmets being sold here are assumably `asian fit` or `wide fit`. do you buy you helmets directly from western countries or do you know of a place that has stock for us gaijin? i was thinking of hitting up some shops around Roppongi or something since alot of foreigners work and live around there. id probably buy online but id like to try them on first ya know. do you know the terminology for what they call western fit helmets here. i know アジアンフィット but i mean what in japanese would you call western melon. 欧米フィット？ i cant seem to even find much info online about this either.
jeimuzu shimoru as long as you don’t go for Japanese brands there should be no issues. giro, Met, kask etc don’t make a specific “fit” for japan from what I know
Do you happen to work in computer grahics industry? The edit is way too professional for a small channel ;D
Jasså är du svensk, fan va kul! Bra jobbat! :-)
🇸🇪
How are the Shimano xr peddles holding up
No issues this far
why don't you make (a diy project for a ~2l PET can) or buy an air tank (in favour of spending monay)? if you're messin around with a lot of tubeless stuff it really makes poping up tires easy on one blast.
I have a tubeless pump (with an air chamber) , but I always want to see how easy (or hard) it is setting up very thing with a normal floor pump first. Lately pretty much every tire I’ve tried I’ve manage to seat with just a floor pump.
How do you refuel on those long rides 😵
HARIBO and cola 😬
But, since you off your own admission ride mostly road, the Byways make less sense, since the cornering will be harder than on the GK SS...
What is the model of the handlebars on your bike in this video?
ua-cam.com/video/dIbkUdWfKJI/v-deo.html
What size is your friend's Open here? M or S?
Did you do these in tubeless or tubed?
Tubeless
The Vittoria Terrano Zero 650B 47mm are comparable with these tires. Also like the Terrano Dry.
is there a clincher version of this tire or something similar semi slick tire??
You can run these with tubes no problem
@@ridesofjapan but will the tires fit on a clincher rims?
Yep shouldn’t be an issue.
All Panaracer under 32mm are tubed only btw.
Is there gravel queen?
Nice vid. Where is this?
West Saitama Chichibu area
are you sure that 200 k is for just one ride that pretty much my total for a whole week of riding :)
Pretty sure, but I will double check ;)
210km.
2225m climb.
12 hours.
More than i would cope with.
;-)
Gravel-Bike = Gravel-Ride ;-)
I put a set of these in 700c x 32m on my road wheels for my Open. I find them okay, not very supple like Rene Herse. They sealed easily which was nice. My biggest complaint is how ugly GK tires are, especially the tan wall model. Aesthetically, I don't think Panaracer could design an uglier tire. I'm running Ultradynamico Cava Race in 650b which I love and I'll probably go back to RH for 700c, either be adventurous and try the Stampede Pass tubeless even though I shouldn't or Bon Jon in standard casing.
Agreed, GK brown casing is not very pleasing, which is why I’m back to black on all my tires... nothing beats Rene heres for looks... but I’m spent too much money on them just to come away disappointed every time... as beautiful as they are 💔
Are they not regular gum wall looking tires? Is the brown shade off? I just ordered 3 pairs
@@jon.e19 I think it's painted on brown. Here's a shot I took yesterday. i.imgur.com/DpuQAmR.jpg
what PSI do you run?
I try to be around 25psi
(Read the gauge wrong and actually had 35 for the first half of the ride... though it felt unusually rough 😅)
im more impressed with the battery life of the garmin
More on that here: ua-cam.com/video/heBQrKmuR5A/v-deo.html