Tyre Pressure for Gravel Cycling: Grip, Comfort, and Confidence in Every Ride
Tyre Pressure for Gravel Cycling: Grip, Comfort, and Confidence in Every Ride
Gravel is never just one surface. One minute you're on asphalt, the next on crushed stone, loose sand, or forest paths. To enjoy it fully and safely, one technical setting makes all the difference: your tyre pressure.
Too high? You lose grip, bounce over the terrain, and fatigue faster.
Too low? Your bike feels sluggish and unstable, and you risk pinch flats.
Here’s how to strike the perfect balance — tailored to your weight, terrain, bike setup, and style of riding.
Why Pressure Matters More in Gravel Than in Road Cycling
In road cycling, high pressure = low rolling resistance.
In gravel, that rule breaks down. You need your tyres to adapt — to absorb shocks, grip loose terrain, and keep you comfortable mile after mile.
Correct pressure improves:
- Grip on irregular, slippery, or sandy terrain
- Comfort over rocks and bumps
- Safety, by reducing risk of puncture or rim damage
- Efficiency, especially when transitioning between surfaces
Gravel pressure is not just a setting. It’s a performance tool.
The 4 Factors That Dictate Ideal Tyre Pressure
1. Tyre Width
Wider tyres = lower pressure. Here’s a quick reference:
WidthRecommended Pressure35–40 mm2.5 – 3.5 bar (35–50 psi)40–45 mm2.0 – 3.0 bar (30–43 psi)45–50 mm1.8 – 2.5 bar (26–36 psi)50 mm+1.5 – 2.2 bar (22–32 psi)
Start low and adjust upward — better to add air after a few miles than regret an overinflated, bouncy ride.
2. Rider Weight + Gear
Total Weight (rider + bags)Recommendation< 65 kgLower end of pressure range65–80 kgMid-range pressure> 80 kg or with bikepacking bagsAdd 0.3 to 0.5 bar
3. Terrain Type
TerrainPressure RangeAsphalt / smooth gravelSlightly higherLoose rock, rutsMid-rangeSand, mud, rootsLower for traction and float
4. Tubeless or Inner Tube?
- Tubeless: Go lower with less risk — up to 0.5 bar less than with tubes.
- Inner tubes: Be conservative. Too low, and you risk snakebite punctures.
Going tubeless? It’s worth it — especially for rough or technical terrain.
Field-Tested Pressure Settings – Baroudeur Benchmarks
RegionTerrainRecommended PressureSuggested TyresAlgarve (mixed terrain)Sand + roads2.0–2.3 bar42 mm tubelessLuberon (rocky climbs)Loose gravel2.3–2.6 bar40 mm knobbyEstérel (technical)Dry + steep2.1–2.4 bar38–42 mm aggressive tread
Does Weather Affect Tyre Pressure?
Absolutely.
ConditionsAdjustmentHeatDon’t overinflate — pressure will rise on its ownRain/mudDrop 0.2–0.3 bar for gripHeadwindSlightly lower pressure improves stability and control
Practical Tips from the Baroudeur Team
- Use a precise gauge, even with mini-pumps
- Ride 5–10 km, then reassess — bouncing means overinflated, wallowing means too soft
- Log your settings to find your sweet spot faster next time
- Adjust after big climbs, fast descents, or during gear-heavy days
The Perfect Pressure? It’s Yours to Discover
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula. The right pressure is the one that makes you feel connected to the terrain, in control, and confident. On our gravel trips, we guide you through those adjustments — in real time, on real trails.
Ready to Test It in the Field?
Check out our:
Baroudeur Cycling is where details matter — and pressure is never left to chance.