Best 700 X 40 Gravel Tires for Mixed-Terrain Riding

#1 · Best Overall

1. Maxxis Rambler EXO 2-Pack

• Material: Rubber
• Material Type: Rubber
• Warranty Type: Limited
• Wheel Size: 70 centimeters

Best for: Mixed-route tubeless pair.

Why it ranks #1: The 700x40C pair is tubeless ready, with dual-compound rubber, EXO sidewall protection, and a stated 40% on-road, 60% off-road balance.

Maxxis pairs tightly packed center knobs with ample side knobs on the Rambler, balancing a quick-rolling center with cornering grip. This two-tire, tubeless-ready 700x40C set adds EXO sidewall material, making it a practical match for riders splitting time between pavement and off-road routes.

The dual compound uses two rubber formulations to balance rolling resistance and grip, while the knob layout combines a tightly packed center with larger side knobs. Those features suit varied gravel routes, and the listing describes a 40% on-road, 60% off-road use balance. EXO material is cut- and abrasion-resistant and is added to the sidewalls. Tubeless-ready construction gives riders a tubeless setup option; the two-pack supplies a pair for a matching wheelset.

Skip it if you want a slick centerline for race-focused hardpack riding; the WTB Vulpine S emphasizes that tread style.

This pair suits riders setting up both wheels for mixed gravel, with tubeless readiness and sidewall reinforcement among its useful details. Its stated 40/60 on-road-to-off-road balance is less pavement-focused than a slick-centerline tire.

Listed on Amazon as: Maxxis Rambler | Dual Compound – EXO, SilkShield | Tubeless Tire, 2 Pack

#2 · Fast-Rolling Compound

2. Maxxis Rambler HYPR-X

• Material: Synthetic Rubber
• Material Type: Synthetic Rubber
• Warranty Type: Limited
• Wheel Size: 28 in

Best for: Low-resistance gravel racing.

Why it ranks #2: Its 700 x 40 tubeless tire combines EXO protection with HYPR-X compound, which Maxxis says reduces rolling resistance by 25% and improves cornering traction by 19%.

Maxxis’s HYPR-X compound combines HYPR road and MaxxSpeed mountain compounds, with the listing claiming 25% lower rolling resistance and 19% better cornering traction. The Rambler’s tightly packed center knobs and ample side knobs pair those stated compound aims with a mixed-terrain tread layout.

The HYPR-X blend is specified to reduce rolling resistance by 25% and improve cornering traction by 19%, linking the compound to both straight-line efficiency and control in turns. Tightly packed center knobs and ample side knobs complement those aims across varied gravel riding. EXO adds cut- and abrasion-resistant material to the sidewalls, and the tire is listed as tubeless. The 700 x 40 specification suits buyers seeking this compound and tread combination in the requested size.

Skip it if you need two tires in one listed purchase; the Maxxis Rambler EXO tubeless two-pack is specified as a pair.

Consider this Rambler for a 700×40 gravel rider prioritizing the listed HYPR-X efficiency and cornering claims, plus EXO sidewall material. Its supplied details do not establish a two-tire package, so check the listing quantity before planning both wheels.

Listed on Amazon as: Maxxis Rambler | Hypr-X | Tubeless Gravel Tire

#3 · Hardpack Racer

3. WTB Vulpine S

• Material: Rubber
• Material Type: Rubber
• Warranty Type: Limited
• Wheel Size: 700 in

Best for: Hardpack gravel racing.

Why it ranks #3: The 700 x 40 tubeless folding tire uses a slick centerline and closely spaced short knobs for racing across pavement, hardpack, and gravel.

WTB’s slick centerline is the defining feature of the 700×40 Vulpine S, reducing rolling resistance while short, tightly spaced knobs support predictable cornering on hardpack. Its round profile aims to retain traction through turns, making this a race-oriented choice for pavement, gravel, and firm dirt.

The slick centerline is intended to roll efficiently on pavement and hardpack, while the short, close-set knobs around the round profile provide predictable cornering traction. That pairing fits riders seeking speed without giving up all-purpose grip on firm gravel. The listing identifies this as a folding, tubeless tire with SG puncture protection. At 700 x 40, it matches the requested width class, though the supplied details do not describe the protection layer’s construction or performance measurements.

Skip it if you ride mainly loose gravel and want ample side knobs; the Maxxis Rambler offers that tread layout.

The Vulpine S fits a speed-minded rider covering pavement and firm gravel who wants tubeless folding construction. Its hardpack-focused tread description makes it a less direct match for routes dominated by loose surfaces.

Listed on Amazon as: WTB Vulpine S Gravel Bike Tire (700c) Tubeless Folding – Racing Tire w/Slick Centerline – SG Puncture Protection (Black/Tan)

#4 · Bead-to-Bead Protection

4. Michelin Power Gravel

• Material: Rubber
• Material Type: Rubber
• Warranty Type: manufacturer
• Wheel Size: 70 centimeters

Best for: Protected mixed-terrain riding.

Why it ranks #4: This 700 x 40 tubeless-ready tire adds Bead2Bead Protek reinforcement for sidewall and puncture protection, with small knobs for mixed terrain.

Michelin’s Bead2Bead Protek reinforcement is the defining feature of this tubeless-ready Power Gravel tire, adding stated sidewall protection alongside puncture resistance. Small gravel-specific knobs are intended to keep rolling resistance low while providing grip on both loose and hard-packed surfaces.

The small-knob tread is described as combining low rolling resistance with grip across loose and hard-packed terrain, suiting riders who alternate between surface types. Tubeless-ready construction provides a tubeless setup option, while Bead2Bead Protek reinforcement is specified for puncture resistance and increased sidewall protection. Michelin’s Magi-X compound is also listed as delivering long tread life under tough conditions. Together, those features make this a protection-focused mixed-terrain choice rather than a slick-tread-only tire.

Skip it if you need a stated two-tire set; the Maxxis Rambler EXO tubeless two-pack includes a pair.

This Michelin suits riders looking for a tubeless-ready 700×40 gravel tire with reinforcement and small-knob versatility. The listing does not provide measured performance figures, so buyers focused on quantified comparisons will find limited data.

Listed on Amazon as: Michelin Power Gravel Tires 700c – Tubeless, Bead2Bead Protek, Magi-X,

#5

5. Maxxis Rambler Tan Sidewall

• Material: Rubber
• Material Type: Rubber
• Warranty Type: Limited
• Wheel Size: 28 in

Best for: Tan-wall mixed-terrain Rambler.

Why it ranks #5: The 700x40C tubeless-ready Rambler pairs dual-compound tread with EXO sidewall protection and ample side knobs for mixed-terrain riding.

The tan sidewall gives this 700x40C Maxxis Rambler a distinct finish while its tightly packed center knobs and ample side knobs target mixed-terrain riding. Dual-compound rubber balances rolling resistance with grip, and EXO sidewall material adds cut and abrasion resistance for varied gravel routes.

A tightly packed center-knob pattern supports lower rolling resistance, while the larger side knobs are intended to help with cornering and control. The dual compound balances that rolling behavior with grip across changing surfaces. EXO material adds cut and abrasion resistance to the sidewalls, a relevant feature for riders encountering rough trail edges. The tire is listed as tubeless ready and supplied as a single 700x40C tire, so a complete pair requires two tires.

Skip it if you need two tires in one purchase; the Maxxis Rambler EXO two-pack supplies a pair.

Pick this single Rambler for a rider who wants a tan-sidewall 700x40C tire for mixed surfaces and values tubeless readiness. Account for the single-tire listing when planning a matching pair for both wheels.

Listed on Amazon as: Maxxis Rambler | Dual Compound – EXO | Tan Sidewall Tubeless Gravel Tire

#6

6. Maxxis Rambler EXO

• Material: Rubber
• Material Type: Rubber
• Warranty Type: Limited
• Wheel Size: 28 in

Best for: Single mixed-terrain Rambler.

Why it ranks #6: This single 700x40C EXO Rambler offers dual-compound rubber, tightly packed center knobs, and side knobs for a stated 40% on-road, 60% off-road mix.

Maxxis combines tightly packed center knobs with ample side knobs on this Rambler, pairing rolling efficiency with cornering grip for varied gravel routes. Its dual-compound tread balances resistance and traction, while EXO sidewall material is specified for cut and abrasion resistance on mixed-surface rides.

The tightly packed center knobs are suited to rolling efficiency, while ample side knobs provide a different contact pattern for cornering. Maxxis uses two rubber compounds to balance rolling resistance and grip, making the tread relevant to riders switching between pavement and gravel. EXO material adds cut and abrasion resistance to the sidewalls. The listing identifies a 700x40C tire and describes a 40% on-road, 60% off-road use balance; it is sold as a single tire.

Skip it if you need a two-tire purchase; the Maxxis Rambler EXO tubeless two-pack supplies both tires.

This single Rambler suits a rider replacing one 700x40C tire for mixed pavement and gravel, especially where sidewall resistance matters. Its stated 40/60 road-to-off-road balance favors riders spending more time off pavement.

Listed on Amazon as: Maxxis Rambler | Dual Compound – EXO, SilkShield | Gravel Tire

#7 · Tube-Only Option

7. WTB Nano Wire Bead

• Material: Rubber
• Material Type: Rubber
• Warranty Type: Limited
• Wheel Size: 700 in

Best for: Tubed hardpack bikepacking.

Why it ranks #7: The 700 x 40 wire-bead tire has a high-volume casing and consistent centerline, but it is designed for tubes and is not tubeless compatible.

WTB’s high-volume 40mm casing is intended to smooth jarring gravel while reducing drag, giving the Nano a comfort-and-efficiency focus for rougher rides. A consistent centerline keeps rolling resistance low, and staggered outer knobs add traction on hardpack, dirt, and loose gravel corners.

The nearly uninterrupted centerline supports efficient rolling on hardpack, while staggered outer knobs are intended to grip through chunky climbs and loose gravel corners. Its 40mm high-volume casing can smooth jarring surfaces, a practical benefit on dirt rides and bikepacking routes. The wire bead is explicitly intended for use with a tube and is not tubeless compatible. Durable, puncture-resistant casings are also listed, making this a tube-dependent option rather than a tubeless setup choice.

Skip it if you want a tubeless-ready gravel tire; the Michelin Power Gravel lists tubeless construction and Bead2Bead Protek.

Choose the Nano for a tube-equipped bikepacking or hardpack setup where casing volume and staggered traction matter. Its wire bead is the key boundary: riders seeking a tubeless-compatible tire should look elsewhere.

Listed on Amazon as: WTB Nano Gravel Bike Tire (700 x 40) Wire Bead 30tpi, Hardpack, Dirt & Bikepacking

#8

8. Hycline Gravel Tire Set

• Material: Rubber
• Material Type: Rubber
• Warranty Type: Manufacturer

Best for: Mixed-surface commuting kit.

Why it ranks #8: The 700x40C two-tire kit includes butyl tubes and tire levers, while its semi-slick tread is described for pavement, gravel, and hardpack.

A smooth centerline paired with angled grooves gives the Hycline a useful split personality: it rolls smoothly on pavement while retaining grip on gravel and hardpack. The 700x40C two-tire set also includes butyl tubes and tire levers, so riders get basic replacement components together.

The semi-slick tread supports pavement speed, while the angled grooves are intended to aid agility and the stated grip suits gravel and hardpack. That combination makes the set relevant to commuting as well as weekend rides across mixed surfaces. Two butyl inner tubes and two tire levers are included alongside the pair of tires, giving buyers replacement tubes and mounting tools in the same purchase. The listing identifies the size as 700x40C.

Skip it if you want a listed cut-resistant sidewall; the Maxxis Rambler EXO offers that reinforcement.

Choose this kit for a 700x40C commuter or mixed-surface rider who values included tubes and levers. Its semi-slick tread suits pavement and hardpack, but the supplied details do not specify a dedicated puncture-protection layer.

Listed on Amazon as: Hycline Gravel Bike Tires Set: 2-Pack 700x38C/40C/42C Folding High-Density Wear-Resistant All-Terrain Bicycle Tires with Butyl Rubber Tubes & Tire Levers for Gravel, Hybrid, MTB & Road Bikes

#9

9. Fincci Gravel Tire Pair

• Material: Kevlar, Nylon, Rubber
• Material Type: Kevlar, Nylon, Rubber
• Warranty Type: Manufacturer
• Wheel Size: 28 in

Best for: Flat-conscious commuting pair.

Why it ranks #9: This pair of foldable 700x40c tires includes a 1 mm nylon anti-puncture layer and weighs 560 grams per tire, according to the listing.

A 1mm nylon anti-puncture layer is the key feature of Fincci’s foldable 700x40C pair, adding a stated barrier against sharp objects. The set is listed for gravel, road, commuting, touring, hybrid, and electric bikes, giving riders several potential uses for one tire size.

The 1mm nylon anti-puncture layer is intended to add durability and reduce the risk of flats from sharp objects, a useful feature for riders covering everyday roads and gravel. The foldable Kevlar bead keeps the tire flexible and is described as making mounting easier on standard rims. Each tire weighs 560 grams, and the pair is listed for 700c and 28-inch wheels. Check the existing tire sidewall against the 700x40C, 42-622 specification before choosing.

Skip it if you prioritize a lighter listed tire; the Maxxis Rambler tan-sidewall version is specified at 473 grams.

Consider this pair for commuters and touring riders who want a stated puncture layer and a flexible folding bead. The listed 560-gram weight per tire is worth considering if minimizing tire weight is central to your setup.

Listed on Amazon as: Pair 700x40c Gravel Bike Tires – Foldable 42-622 with 1mm Anti Puncture

#10

10. Kenda Alluvium

• Material: single tread rubber
• Material Type: single tread rubber
• Wheel Size: 70 centimeters

Best for: High-TPI tubeless gravel setup.

Why it ranks #10: The 700c x 40 folding tire is tubeless ready and lists 120 TPI, but the supplied details give less tread and protection information than higher-ranked choices.

Kenda specifies a 120 TPI casing for its folding Alluvium 700x40C, a concrete detail for riders comparing casing construction. The tire is tubeless ready, uses single tread rubber, and carries a listed maximum pressure of 50 PSI, making those setup specifications central to its appeal.

The 120 TPI specification identifies the casing construction for buyers comparing tire details, while the folding format offers a non-wire-bead option for storage or handling. Tubeless-ready construction permits a tubeless setup, and the single tread rubber compound keeps the compound specification straightforward. The listed size is 700c x 40, with a 50 PSI maximum. The supplied information does not describe the tread pattern or a particular terrain balance, so route-specific grip expectations are not established here.

Skip it if you want a defined center-and-side-knob tread for mixed gravel; the Maxxis Rambler specifies both.

The Alluvium fits a buyer comparing a folding, tubeless-ready 700x40C tire by casing and pressure specifications. Its listing provides little tread or terrain guidance, so riders choosing by surface-specific grip may prefer a more detailed option.

Listed on Amazon as: Kenda, Alluvium, Tire, 700x40C, Folding, Tubeless Ready, Single, GCT, 120, Coffee