After just a couple of months on the Maxxis Reaver HYPR-X a flat tire in not-extreme terrain inspired me to make a change to a couple of Schwalbes from the new "Pro" lineup, and a return to mixed tread patterns, which has worked well for my local terrain in the past (Pirell and Tufo). I'm now on a 45mm RS on the rear and 45mm RX on the front. The tires mounted on my Reynolds ATRx rims without any drama, using my small air compressor.

Measured tire width (23mm ID rim @ 35psi): RX = 44.9mm, RS = 44.4mm

Unfortunately, I didn't take a moment to weigh the RS before I mounted it. I did manage to weigh the RX...604g. They certainly aren't lightweight tires.

First ride impressions...My route included some sustained fire road climbing on 8%avg grades, singletrack, and pavement. On pavement, they seem a little sluggish to spin up (not surprising for their weight), but they REALLY like to roll. Compared to my recent Reaver experience, it had my attention. On a rocky short punch with a little looseness, the rear tire was missing some of the grip I've found with other tires (Reaver and Thundero), but wasn't any worse than the Pirelli H. An adjustment in my weight shift resolved the issue pretty easily, but I could see that there are conditions where it could be more of a challenge. Likewise, braking in steep and loose conditions had the rear tire losing traction fairly easily, but it was manageable. On the front, the RX had all the cornering and braking grip I like having on my gravel bike, and behaved very much like the Swampero and Pirelli M. Overall, I like them quite a lot. For now, I'd put them on par with my favorite 44mm Tufo combo for most of my local riding, with the only downside being weight.


I had first intended to go with the 50mm Schwalbes, but my previous experience with 48mm Tufos on the bike was not favorable for how it changed the bike feel and created a toe overlap issue, so I stayed with the size I've been familiar with. 45mm(ish) feels right to me on this bike.