The Panaracer GravelKing Slick embodies the absolute reference for demanding gravel cyclists seeking an ultra-versatile tire capable of devouring asphalt with the efficiency of a racing tubular while retaining the robustness essential for rough terrain. With a completely slick tread, this tire focuses entirely on rolling speed and comfort, while integrating exclusive cutting-edge technologies developed by Panaracer: the ZSG Gravel compound, the TuffTex casing, and the revolutionary BeadLock bead system. Manufactured in Japan with distinctive brown sidewalls, it is aimed at purists who refuse to choose between performance and style.

Technical Summary

Launched in spring 2014 when gravel was still an emerging discipline, the GravelKing laid the foundation for a new tire category. The 2024 version renews this legend with a completely redesigned architecture that offers an extremely rare balance between minimal rolling resistance, bead-to-bead puncture protection, and casing suppleness. Tubeless compatible up to 60 PSI and hookless on all 30 mm and wider sections, this tire adapts to a vast variety of modern rims while facilitating installation, even with a floor pump. Its slick profile makes it the ideal companion for mixed asphalt-dry gravel rides, sportives on degraded roads, and bikepacking on rolling trails.

Exclusive Panaracer Technologies

• ZSG Gravel Compound (Zero Slip Grip): Rubber compound specifically formulated for gravel, this proprietary compound guarantees consistent grip regardless of temperature variations (from freezing to high heat) and weather conditions. It ensures both low rolling resistance on pavement and reliable traction on gravel and packed dirt.
• TuffTex — Bead-to-bead protection: Supple high thread density casing (120 TPI) reinforced by an ingeniously woven puncture-resistant layer from bead to bead. This exclusive structure combines lightness, suppleness, and resistance to punctures and sidewall cuts, without adding weight or stiffness to the tire.
• BeadLock — Redesigned bead: Meticulously redesigned bead design to adapt to a wider spectrum of rims (hookless and clincher). Installation becomes remarkably easy, often achievable with a simple floor pump, and tubeless pressure retention is optimized to prevent unwanted burping.
• Supple aramid bead: For compact folding, controlled weight, and maximum durability. Ideal for carrying a spare tire on bikepacking trips.

Versatility and Fields of Use

With its completely slick tread, the GravelKing Slick excels on rough asphalt, compact gravel, dry dirt paths, and rolling single tracks. It offers top speed worthy of a road tire while accepting ruts, potholes, and scattered gravel without flinching. On loose or muddy terrain, however, its performance fades in favor of knobbed models (GravelKing SK, SS, or X1). Perfect for mixed sportives, long bikepacking trips, urban commutes on degraded surfaces, and gravel training on stabilized trails.

Tubeless Installation and Hookless Compatibility

Panaracer's Tubeless Ready system allows inflation up to 60 PSI (4 bar) without an inner tube, guaranteeing fewer punctures, better comfort (lower pressures), and weight savings. Thanks to BeadLock technology, the tire seats easily on the rim and beading often occurs without a compressor. Compatible with modern hookless rims (700×30C and wider widths), it meets the most recent industry standards. Also usable with an inner tube up to 75 PSI for those who prefer classic reliability.

Geometry and Standards

• ISO 622 diameter (700c): Universal road and gravel standard, compatible with nearly all gravel, cyclocross, and endurance road bikes on the market.
• Available widths: 30, 35, 40, and 45 mm — covering from "fast gravel" (30-35 mm) to comfort bikepacking (40-45 mm).
• Volume and comfort: The wider the section, the greater the air volume, allowing riding at reduced pressures (comfort, grip) without risking pinch flats.
• Controlled weights: From 320 g (700×30) to 470 g (700×45), among the lightest in the reinforced gravel category.

Aesthetics and Finishes

Brown sidewalls elegantly contrasting with the black tread: a timeless and sporty look that enhances steel, titanium, or vintage-modern carbon bikes. Refined finish worthy of Panaracer Japanese manufacturing, renowned for its quality standards and longevity. Understated markings and discreet logos complete a clean design that appeals to purists and aesthetes alike.

Available Variants

• 700×30C (RF730-GK-D2): 320 g — Black / Brown sidewalls — For fast gravel and mixed road
• 700×35C (RF735-GK-D2): 370 g — Black / Brown sidewalls — Balance of versatility / speed (variant EAN 4931253031137)
• 700×40C (RF740-GK-D2): 420 g — Black / Brown sidewalls — Maximum comfort and extended all-terrain capabilities
• 700×45C (RF745-GK-D2): 470 g — Black / Brown sidewalls — Long-distance bikepacking, demanding mixed terrain

Each width retains the same technologies (ZSG Gravel, TuffTex, BeadLock) and the same Tubeless Ready / Hookless compatibility. The choice of section depends on use (speed vs. comfort), internal rim width, and available frame clearance.

Maintenance and Lifespan

The ZSG Gravel compound offers exceptional wear resistance compared to soft competition compounds. Regularly check pressure (ideally before each tubeless ride), inspect sidewalls after use on rocky terrain, and renew sealant every 3 to 6 months. In tubeless use, clean the inside of the tire during a change to optimize sealing. With proper maintenance, expect several thousand kilometers before replacement, depending on intensity and terrain practiced.