Gravel bike wheels are designed to be durable, lightweight, and able to handle the rough conditions of off-road riding. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. When looking for the right gravel bike wheels, it’s important to consider factors such as weight, durability, and compatibility with your bike.
One critical thing to pay attention to when choosing gravel bike wheels is the type of tire they are compatible with. Some wheels are designed for tubeless tires, which offer a number of benefits over traditional tires, including reduced risk of punctures and improved traction. Other wheels are designed for traditional tires, which can be more affordable and easier to install.
We spent hours researching and testing a variety of gravel bike wheels to identify the ones that offer the best combination of durability, weight, and compatibility with different tire types. Whether you’re a seasoned off-road rider or just getting started, the right gravel bike wheels can make all the difference in your riding experience.
Best Gravel Bike Wheels
If you’re an avid gravel biker, you know how important it is to have the right wheels to tackle any terrain. Gravel bike wheels need to be strong, durable, and lightweight to handle the rigors of off-road cycling. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best gravel bike wheels on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these wheels are sure to enhance your riding experience.
Vittoria Air-Liner Gravel Insert
If you’re looking for a high-quality polymer tire insert, the Vittoria Air-Liner Gravel Insert is a great option. It’s compatible with tubeless-ready tires and 3-way valves, and it absorbs impacts, preventing the risk of pinch-flats while reducing tire burping at the bead.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Better tire grip and less vibration
- Winner of Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España, Classics, World Championships, European Championships and Olympic Games
Cons
- May not fit all wheel sizes
- Difficult to install with certain rim/tire combos
- Description may not match actual product
The Vittoria Air-Liner Gravel Insert is easy to install, and it allows for better tire grip and less vibration. Plus, it’s the official tire of USA Cycling and has been used by professional riders in the peloton. However, it may not fit all wheel sizes, and some users have had difficulty installing it with certain rim/tire combos. Additionally, the description may not match the actual product, so be sure to double-check before purchasing.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality polymer tire insert for your gravel bike, the Vittoria Air-Liner Gravel Insert is a solid choice. Just be sure to check compatibility and installation requirements before making your purchase.
WTB Riddler 700c x 37mm TanWall
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile tire for your gravel bike, the WTB Riddler 700c x 37mm TanWall is a solid choice.
Pros
- The aggressive cornering knobs provide excellent traction on loose terrain.
- The low-profile center tread allows for fast rolling on hardpack surfaces.
- The tubeless compatible system reduces the risk of flats and allows for lower tire pressure, improving comfort and traction.
Cons
- The tire may be prone to punctures on sharp rocks or other sharp objects.
- The tan sidewalls may get dirty easily.
- The tire may be difficult to install for some users.
The WTB Riddler is a large-volume tire that is suitable for gravel grinding or dry cyclocross courses. The directional tread pattern features aggressive cornering knobs that provide excellent traction on loose terrain, while the low-profile center tread allows for fast rolling on hardpack surfaces. The tire is tubeless compatible, which reduces the risk of flats and allows for lower tire pressure, improving comfort and traction.
One potential downside of the WTB Riddler is that it may be prone to punctures on sharp rocks or other sharp objects. Additionally, the tan sidewalls may get dirty easily, which may be a concern for some users. Finally, some users may find the tire difficult to install, especially if they are new to tubeless setups.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile tire for your gravel bike, the WTB Riddler 700c x 37mm TanWall is a solid choice. Its aggressive cornering knobs, low-profile center tread, and tubeless compatible system make it a great choice for a variety of terrains and conditions.
Gravity 700c Disc Brake Wheel Set
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable wheel set for your adventure hybrid or gravel/cross bike, the Gravity 700c Disc Brake Wheel Set is worth considering.
Pros
- Double-walled alloy rims with 24mm width and black finish
- 700c x 38mm blackwall tires and tubes already mounted
- Alloy skewers included
Cons
- Only compatible with 7-speed cassettes
- Schrader valve hole may not be suitable for all users
- Limited color options
These wheels are easy to install and offer a smooth ride on various terrains. The double-walled alloy rims provide durability and strength, while the 700c x 38mm tires and tubes already mounted make it hassle-free to set up. The included alloy skewers add an extra layer of convenience.
The only downside is that these wheels are only compatible with 7-speed cassettes, which may limit some users. Additionally, the Schrader valve hole may not be suitable for those who prefer Presta valves. Finally, the limited color options may not be suitable for those who want to match their bike’s aesthetics.
Overall, the Gravity 700c Disc Brake Wheel Set is a solid choice for those who want a reliable and affordable option for their adventure hybrid or gravel/cross bike.
SUPRETEAM Carbon Fiber Disc Brake Wheelset
If you’re looking for a reliable and customizable gravel bike wheelset, the SUPRETEAM Carbon Fiber Disc Brake Wheelset is a great option.
Pros
- Customizable according to your needs
- Compatible with 6-bolt or center lock type hubs
- Comes with a 2-year warranty for manufacturer defects and lifetime crash replacement program
Cons
- Takes a while to receive the rims
- Freewheel is a bit loud
- On the heavy side
I recently purchased the 40mm deep, 25mm width, center lock version of these wheels and had them installed on my gravel bike. The wheels are stiff and fairly aerodynamic, making for a smooth ride on rough terrain. The TaiWan Blade Aero Spokes and TaiWan alloy external nipple add to the durability of the wheels.
One of the best things about these wheels is the ability to customize them to your needs. You can choose the rim depth, hub type, and hub size to fit your bike perfectly. The wheels are also compatible with 6-bolt or center lock type hubs, which is a nice added bonus.
The only downside to these wheels is that they take a while to receive. It took me two months to finally get them. Additionally, the freewheel is a bit loud, but it’s not a deal breaker for me.
Overall, I would recommend the SUPRETEAM Carbon Fiber Disc Brake Wheelset to anyone looking for a reliable and customizable gravel bike wheelset.
Ritchey Alpine JB Road Bike Tire
If you are looking for a tire that can handle long stretches of gravel, then the Ritchey Alpine JB Road Bike Tire could be a good choice.
Pros
- The unique VFA tread design offers low rolling resistance.
- The tire provides enough grip to navigate long stretches of gravel.
- The Alpine JB is more durable because it has no knobs to wear down.
Cons
- The tire may not be suitable for extreme off-road conditions.
- It may not be as comfortable on pavement as other tires.
- The tire may not be suitable for wet conditions.
The Ritchey Alpine JB Road Bike Tire is a good option for riders who want a tire that can handle gravel and other rough terrain. The VFA tread design offers low rolling resistance, which makes it easier to ride on long stretches of gravel. The tire also provides enough grip to navigate rough terrain without slipping. Additionally, the Alpine JB is more durable because it has no knobs to wear down. However, the tire may not be suitable for extreme off-road conditions, and it may not be as comfortable on pavement as other tires. Additionally, the tire may not be suitable for wet conditions. Overall, the Ritchey Alpine JB Road Bike Tire is a good choice for riders who want a tire that can handle gravel and other rough terrain.
Superteam 38mm Carbon Tubeless Wheelset Disc Brake Road Bike Wheels 700c 31mm Width Center Lock Thru-Axle Type Front 12100mm Rear 12142mm
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable wheelset for your gravel bike, the Superteam 38mm Carbon Tubeless Wheelset is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The wheels are lightweight and durable, making them perfect for long rides on rough terrain.
- The tubeless design ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, while also reducing the risk of punctures and flats.
- The wheels are compatible with Shimano 8/9/10/11 speed cassettes, making them a versatile choice for a variety of bikes.
Cons
- The wheels may not be suitable for heavier riders, as the maximum recommended weight is 130kg/286lbs.
- Some users have reported issues with the wheels cracking or breaking after extended use.
- The warranty only covers normal usage, so any damage caused by accidents or misuse may not be covered.
In my experience, the Superteam 38mm Carbon Tubeless Wheelset is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable wheelset for their gravel bike. The wheels are lightweight and durable, and the tubeless design ensures a smooth and comfortable ride. The wheels are also compatible with Shimano 8/9/10/11 speed cassettes, making them a versatile choice for a variety of bikes.
That being said, it’s worth noting that the wheels may not be suitable for heavier riders, as the maximum recommended weight is 130kg/286lbs. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the wheels cracking or breaking after extended use, so it’s important to take proper care of them. Finally, the warranty only covers normal usage, so any damage caused by accidents or misuse may not be covered.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable wheelset for your gravel bike, the Superteam 38mm Carbon Tubeless Wheelset is definitely worth considering. Just make sure to take proper care of them and keep their limitations in mind.
CyclingDeal Wheelset
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly wheelset that can handle rough terrain, the CyclingDeal Wheelset is a solid choice.
Pros
- The wheelset is compatible with Shimano HG system MTB cassette 9 10 11 speed, making it a versatile option.
- The ThickSlick tyres provide excellent puncture protection and are durable enough to handle a variety of terrain.
- The set includes everything you need, including front & rear wheels, tyres, tubes, hubs and quick releases.
Cons
- The wheelset is on the heavier side, weighing in at 3820g/set.
- The wheelset is only available in a 26″ size, which may not work for all riders.
- Some users have reported issues with the wheelset being out of true out of the box.
The CyclingDeal Wheelset is a great option for anyone on a budget who needs a reliable set of wheels for their gravel bike. The ThickSlick tyres provide excellent puncture protection, while the Novatec hubs and stainless steel spokes ensure a smooth ride. However, the wheelset is on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for riders who are looking for a lightweight setup. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the wheelset being out of true out of the box, so it may require some adjustments before use. Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly wheelset that can handle a variety of terrain, the CyclingDeal Wheelset is definitely worth considering.
ICAN Gravel Bike Wheelset
If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight gravel bike wheelset, the ICAN AERO 35 Disc Carbon Gravel Bike Wheelset is a great option.
Pros
- The full carbon fiber t700&t800 Asymmetrical Rimset provides better balance of the spoke’s tension of the wheelset.
- The ICAN D01 straight pull hub, with high-quality Japanese sealed EZO bearings, offers a stable and smooth ride.
- The wider rims accommodate wider, gravel-specific tires and make them burlier to withstand the rigors of off-road abuse and riding.
Cons
- The price is on the higher end of the spectrum for gravel bike wheelsets.
- The wheelset may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
- The wheelset may require some maintenance and adjustments over time.
The ICAN AERO 35 Disc Carbon Gravel Bike Wheelset is a great choice for riders who want a lightweight and reliable wheelset for their gravel bike. The full carbon fiber t700&t800 Asymmetrical Rimset provides better balance of the spoke’s tension of the wheelset, which means that the wheels are more stable and responsive when you’re riding on rough terrain. Additionally, the ICAN D01 straight pull hub, with high-quality Japanese sealed EZO bearings, offers a stable and smooth ride, even when you’re riding at high speeds or over rough terrain.
One of the best things about the ICAN AERO 35 Disc Carbon Gravel Bike Wheelset is that it features wider rims to accommodate wider, gravel-specific tires. This means that you can ride on rough terrain with more confidence, knowing that your tires will be able to handle the bumps and obstacles that you encounter.
However, there are a few downsides to this wheelset. The price is on the higher end of the spectrum for gravel bike wheelsets, which may be a dealbreaker for some riders. Additionally, the wheelset may not be as durable as some other options on the market, so you may need to replace it sooner than you would with a more durable wheelset. Finally, the wheelset may require some maintenance and adjustments over time, which can be a hassle for riders who don’t want to spend a lot of time tinkering with their bike.
Overall, the ICAN AERO 35 Disc Carbon Gravel Bike Wheelset is a great option for riders who want a reliable and lightweight wheelset for their gravel bike. If you’re willing to invest in a high-quality wheelset, this is definitely one to consider.
Schwinn Sporterra Adventure Gravel Bike
The Schwinn Sporterra Adventure Gravel Bike is a decent entry-level bike for those looking to try out gravel biking.
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Versatile 700c wheels
- Microshift 14 speed shifter for efficient gear changes
Cons
- Gear shifting is not always smooth
- Alloy mechanical disc brakes can be difficult to set up
- May require some adjustments out of the box
The Schwinn Sporterra Adventure Gravel Bike is a great option for those looking to try out gravel biking without breaking the bank. Its lightweight aluminum frame and versatile 700c wheels make it easy to maneuver on a variety of terrain. The Microshift 14 speed shifter also allows for efficient gear changes on the go.
However, the gear shifting can be a bit finicky and may require some adjustments to get it just right. Additionally, the alloy mechanical disc brakes can be difficult to set up properly, which may be a frustration for some users. Finally, some users have reported that the bike may require some adjustments out of the box, which could be a drawback for those looking for a hassle-free experience.
Overall, the Schwinn Sporterra Adventure Gravel Bike is a solid entry-level option for those looking to try out gravel biking. While it may have some minor drawbacks, its lightweight frame and versatile wheels make it a great option for those on a budget.
SUPERTEAM Carbon Fiber Road Bike Wheels
These wheels are a great value for the price and offer excellent performance for gravel biking.
Pros
- The 50mm depth clincher rim style with basalt braking surface provides better cruising ability and wind-breaking capabilities.
- The spoke weave is 2:1, improving wheel stability and stiffness. Each spoke is strictly calibrated to prevent yaw issues.
- The hub has a high-performance six-pawl shape with the best strength and supports most of the groupset on the market. It fits for Shimano and Campy 8/9/10/11 speeds.
Cons
- The fluorescent yellow color may not be to everyone’s taste.
- Some customers have reported issues with spoke nipples detaching.
- The brake pads could be of better quality.
These wheels are an excellent choice for those who want to upgrade their gravel bike’s performance. The 50mm depth clincher rim style with basalt braking surface provides better cruising ability and wind-breaking capabilities. The spoke weave is 2:1, improving wheel stability and stiffness. Each spoke is strictly calibrated to prevent yaw issues. The hub has a high-performance six-pawl shape with the best strength and supports most of the groupset on the market. It fits for Shimano and Campy 8/9/10/11 speeds. The wheels come with Shim/Sram 8/9/10/11 speed cassette body. All of Superteam Wheel was passed UCI approved and EN standard under SGS test, and it comes with a 2-year warranty. However, the fluorescent yellow color may not be to everyone’s taste, and some customers have reported issues with spoke nipples detaching. The brake pads could also be of better quality. Overall, these wheels are a great value for the price and offer excellent performance for gravel biking.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best gravel bike wheels, there are several key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Rim Material
The material of the rim can affect the weight, strength, and durability of the wheel. Common materials include aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel. Aluminum is the most popular choice due to its affordability and durability. Carbon fiber is lighter and more rigid, but also more expensive. Steel is the heaviest but is also the most durable.
Rim Width
The rim width can impact the tire’s width and volume, which can affect the bike’s handling and comfort. Wider rims provide better stability and traction, while narrower rims are lighter and more aerodynamic. Consider the type of terrain you’ll be riding on and choose a rim width accordingly.
Spokes
The number and type of spokes can affect the wheel’s strength and weight. More spokes generally mean a stronger wheel, but also a heavier one. Straight-pull spokes are more aerodynamic and easier to maintain, while J-bend spokes are more common and easier to replace.
Hub
The hub is the center of the wheel and can impact the wheel’s performance and durability. Look for hubs with high-quality bearings for smooth spinning and longevity. Choose a hub with a compatible axle size and disc brake mount if needed.
Tubeless Compatibility
Tubeless wheels allow for lower tire pressure and better traction, but require specific tires and sealant. Look for wheels that are tubeless-ready if you plan to use this system.
Consider these factors when choosing the best gravel bike wheels for your needs. Keep in mind that the best option for you will depend on your riding style, budget, and preferences.