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Bike Components & Tires

8 Best 700×40 Gravel Tires for Gravel and Commuting (2026)

Loose gravel corners expose a tire with weak side knobs fast. These picks are compared on tread profile, tubeless setup, and puncture protection.

Published Oct 29, 2026 4 min read

Halfway through a gravel ride, the tire you picked starts to matter more than the bike. A slick centerline rolls fast on pavement but can wash out on loose over hardpack, while an aggressive tread drags on the road. The 700×40 size sits in the middle, wide enough for rough surfaces and narrow enough to stay quick on tarmac, but the differences between models show up in the details: bead type, puncture layer, and how the tread transitions from center to shoulder.

I researched the Best 700×40 Gravel Tires by comparing tread patterns, casing construction, and stated weights, then cross-referenced verified buyer feedback on how each tire mounts, wears, and handles mixed surfaces. My overall pick for best 700×40 gravel tires is the 2 Pack 700x38C Bike Tires Set,40-622 Folding. It comes as a complete set with tubes and levers, which simplifies replacement for commuters and touring riders who want a straightforward swap. My top picks are just below.

Best 700×40 Gravel Tires at a Glance

A Note on Ratings. Manufacturer specs aren't always independently verified, so results can vary by climate or how you use the gear. We research every pick's specs, materials, and verified buyer ratings before it makes this list. Still, check your own setup and conditions before trusting new gear on a remote or unfamiliar route.

In-Depth Reviews

9.9 NT Score
Excellent

Dioty 700x38C folding tire and tube set with nylon-cord reinforced rubber, two butyl tubes, and two tire levers. Rated 40-65 PSI for gravel, road, and commuter use.

Key Facts

Tire Size
700x38C (ETRTO 40-622)
Pressure Range
40-65 PSI
Material
Rubber with nylon cord reinforcement
Included
2 Tires, 2 Inner Tubes, 2 Tire Levers

Pros

  • +Folding bead keeps spare tires compact in a commuter bag
  • +Nylon cord reinforcement adds abrasion resistance to the casing
  • +Complete set includes two tires, two tubes, and two levers

Cons

  • −No tread depth or compound spec listed for loose gravel
  • −No claimed puncture protection rating or warranty stated
  • −Sidewall anti-slip tread is minimal for wet off-road use

Detailed Review

Dioty's 700x38C set arrives as a full replacement kit: two folding tires, two butyl inner tubes, and two tire levers. The 40-622 ETRTO size covers 700x36C through 700x40C rims, so it slots into most gravel, road, and commuter frames without clearance guesswork. The 40-65 PSI window gives room to run softer for chip-seal chatter or firmer for pavement efficiency.

The casing uses nylon cord reinforcement over rubber, which is the detail that matters for wear on gritty shoulders and gravel paths. The butyl inner tubes are the thicker style that holds air longer between top-offs, useful for a bike that sits parked between rides. Folding beads mean I'd consider carrying a spare in a pannier or seat bag on longer commutes.

Worth knowing before you buy: the listing gives no tread depth, no compound spec, and no puncture protection rating, so I rate this a reasonable pick for paved and light gravel riding rather than loaded off-road touring.

2 Best for Gravel Riding

WTB Venture Gravel Bike Tire with Tubeless TCS

WTB
9.9 NT Score
Excellent

The WTB Venture is a 700 x 40 gravel tire with tubeless TCS construction, a dual DNA fast rolling compound, and a square MTB style profile for cornering traction.

Key Facts

Item Weight
1.17 lbs
Size
700 x 40
Color
Tan Sidewall
Construction
Tubeless TCS

Pros

  • +Tubeless TCS construction simplifies reliable tubeless setup
  • +Square profile adds side knob pressure for cornering traction
  • +Dual DNA compound balances rolling speed and durability
  • +Tan sidewall option for color matching

Cons

  • −1.17 lbs per tire adds rotating mass on long climbs
  • −No puncture protection rating or warranty term disclosed
  • −Limited to 700 x 40 size, not available in other widths

Detailed Review

The WTB Venture in 700 x 40 is a tubeless-ready gravel tire built around a square MTB style profile and an inverse tread pattern with thousands of working edges. That combination is aimed at dry to damp dirt and gravel, where the side knobs engage as the tire leans over. The Dual DNA fast rolling compound is formulated to keep rolling resistance low while still providing traction and durability.

At 1.17 pounds per tire, it is not a featherweight, but the tubeless TCS construction means you can run lower pressures without pinch flats, which helps on loose over hardpack. I see this working best for gravel and bikepacking routes where cornering grip matters more than shaving grams.

The main trade-off is that the 700 x 40 size is the only option here, so riders wanting a wider or narrower tire will need to look elsewhere. Also, no puncture protection rating or warranty term is stated, so I would not count on it for heavily flinty or thorny routes without a backup plan.

9.9 NT Score
Excellent

WTB Vulpine S gravel tire, 700 x 40, tubeless-ready folding bead, slick centerline with short knobs, SG puncture protection, tan sidewalls.

Key Facts

Item Weight
1.14 lbs
Size
700 x 40
Color
Tan
Bead
Folding, Tubeless-Ready

Pros

  • +Slick centerline reduces rolling resistance on hardpack and pavement
  • +Short knobs provide cornering traction without slowing straight-line speed
  • +SG puncture protection adds sidewall defense for rough gravel
  • +Tubeless-ready folding bead saves weight and allows lower pressure

Cons

  • −Slick centerline trades mud and loose-gravel bite for speed
  • −40 mm width may exceed clearance on some frames
  • −Tan sidewalls show dirt and stains more than black

Detailed Review

The WTB Vulpine S in 700 x 40 pairs a slick centerline with short, tightly-spaced knobs, a design that prioritizes low rolling resistance on pavement and hardpack while still offering cornering bite on gravel. At roughly 1.14 pounds per tire, it sits in a reasonable range for a tubeless-ready gravel tire, and the folding bead helps keep rotating weight down where it matters most.

I see this working best for gravel races and fast daily rides where speed on smooth surfaces is the priority. The SG puncture protection is formulated for sidewall defense and air retention, which is useful on debris-strewn paths. The main trade-off is that the slick centerline gives up mud and loose-gravel bite compared to a more open tread.

Worth knowing before you buy: the 40 mm width may exceed clearance on some frames, so measure before ordering. For my money, this suits riders who want a fast-rolling tire for hardpack and gravel without stepping up to a full slick.

9.9 NT Score
Excellent

A pair of foldable 700x40c gravel tires with a 1mm nylon anti-puncture layer, each weighing 560 grams and fitting 700c and 28-inch wheels.

Key Facts

Item Weight
560 grams per tire
Tire Size
700x40c (ETRTO 42-622)
Material
Nylon and rubber compound with kevlar bead
Included
2 tires

Pros

  • +Folding kevlar bead simplifies storage and transport
  • +1mm nylon layer adds puncture resistance over standard tires
  • +560-gram weight suits mixed tarmac and gravel riding
  • +Two-tire pack covers front and rear replacement

Cons

  • −No tubeless compatibility stated in the listing
  • −No specific tread depth or compound details disclosed
  • −Single 700x40c size limits fit options

Detailed Review

Fincci's 700x40c gravel tire pairs a 1mm nylon anti-puncture layer with a 560-gram per-tire weight, which is a reasonable middle ground for riders splitting time between tarmac and gravel. The folding kevlar bead lets each tire pack down small, so carrying a spare on a multi-day bikepacking route or stashing one in a commuter bag is straightforward.

The 42-622 ETRTO size fits 700c and 28-inch wheels, and the tread is designed to roll quickly on pavement while holding grip on uneven surfaces. I'd consider this a sensible pick for gravel, hybrid, touring, or electric bikes where flat protection matters more than race-day speed. Worth knowing before you buy: the listing does not state tubeless compatibility, so plan on running tubes.

For my money, this suits riders who want a durable all-road tire without moving to a heavier touring casing.

5 Best for Gravel Commuting

WEEROCK 700x40C Gravel Bike Tires with 2 Tubes

WEEROCK
9.8 NT Score
Excellent

The WEEROCK 700x40C gravel tire kit includes two folding-bead tires, two 48mm Presta inner tubes, and two pry bars for installation.

Key Facts

Tire Size
700 x 40C (40-622)
Inner Tube Size
700 x 35/43C, 48mm Presta
Recommended Pressure
40 PSI / 275 kPa / 2.75 BAR
Included
2 Tires, 2 Tubes, 2 Pry Bars

Pros

  • +Folding bead trims weight and simplifies mounting on the road
  • +Small-knob tread balances pavement speed with gravel cornering grip
  • +Complete kit with tubes and pry bars avoids extra purchases
  • +700x40C ETRTO sizing fits most hybrid, gravel, and commuter frames

Cons

  • −40 PSI max pressure limits use on heavier loaded touring setups
  • −No puncture protection belt or tubeless compatibility stated
  • −Small knobs may pack with mud on wet, loose climbs

Detailed Review

The 700x40C (40-622 ETRTO) size is the detail that matters most here: it fits most 700c hybrid, gravel, and commuter frames without clearance guesswork. The folding bead keeps each tire lighter and easier to pack as a spare, which helps on multi-day gravel routes where a spare tire takes up real space.

I see this kit working best for commuters and light touring riders who want one purchase to cover tires, tubes, and levers. The small-knob tread is aimed at pavement, gravel, and light trails, and the listing calls for 40 PSI / 275 kPa / 2.75 BAR to balance ride quality with tire life.

Worth knowing before you buy: no puncture belt or tubeless compatibility is stated, and the 40 PSI ceiling limits use on heavily loaded touring setups. The small knobs may also pack with mud on wet, loose climbs.

9.7 NT Score
Excellent

YunSCM 700x38C folding gravel tires, 2-pack, 80 kg max load, 50 PSI max, nylon cord and rubber compound.

Key Facts

Size
700x38C (28x1.50)
Max Load
80 kg
Max Pressure
50 PSI (350 kPa)
Included
2 tires

Pros

  • +Folding bead packs flat for travel or spare storage
  • +Tread design balances rolling speed with shoulder grip
  • +Compatible with 700x36C through 700x40C rims
  • +Two tires included per pack

Cons

  • −Folded steel wire bead may arrive bent or uneven
  • −No puncture protection layer or tubeless rating stated
  • −Not for extreme off-road, racing, or overloaded use

Detailed Review

The YunSCM 700x38C tires use a folding bead and nylon cord construction, which makes them easier to store or carry as spares than a rigid wire-bead tire. The flat center tread is designed to roll well on asphalt and hardpack, while the shoulder lugs add bite on loose gravel and dirt roads. I see this working best for gravel riders who split time between paved connectors and unpaved sections.

Each tire is rated to a maximum load of 80 kg and 50 PSI, so they suit loaded bikepacking setups or heavier riders who need a stable footprint. The 700x38C size also fits 700x36C through 700x40C rims, which gives some flexibility if you are swapping between wheelsets.

Worth knowing before you buy: the steel wire bead cannot be completely folded, and the listing warns that a bent or uneven bead can cause installation problems. There is also no puncture protection layer or tubeless compatibility stated, so I rate these as a straightforward tube-type tire for mixed-surface riding rather than a race-day option.

9.6 NT Score
Very good

Maxxis Rambler 700x40C tubeless gravel tire with dual compound tread and EXO sidewall protection, weighing 1.04 lbs.

Key Facts

Item Weight
1.04 lbs
Size
700x40C
Material
Dual Compound Rubber
Warranty
1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty

Pros

  • +Dual compound rubber balances speed and grip
  • +EXO sidewall protection against cuts and abrasion
  • +Tubeless ready for lower pressure and fewer flats
  • +Ramped center knobs roll fast on hardpack

Cons

  • −Tan sidewall shows dirt and stains more than black
  • −Heavier than some race-focused gravel tires

Detailed Review

The Maxxis Rambler in 700x40C with EXO sidewall protection and a tan sidewall is a do-it-all gravel tire that leans toward speed on hardpack without giving up cornering bite. The dual compound tread uses two rubber densities, and the ramped center knobs are shaped to roll fast on pavement and smooth dirt, while the side knobs stay open enough to dig in when a corner gets loose.

At just over a pound, the Rambler sits in a reasonable middle ground for gravel. The 120 TPI casing is supple enough to run tubeless at lower pressures for traction over washboard and chunky gravel, and the EXO sidewall adds a layer of cut and abrasion resistance for routes with sharp rocks. I'd consider this for mixed-surface rides where speed on the flats matters but you still want grip on descents.

The trade-off is that tan sidewall, which will show dirt and sealant stains more than a black one. Worth knowing before you buy: the EXO layer adds a little weight compared to a pure race tire, so if every gram counts on a race day, this may not be the lightest option.

9.4 NT Score
Very good

The Maxxis Rambler is a 700x40C tubeless gravel tire with a dual compound tread and SilkShield bead-to-bead protection, weighing 1.05 pounds.

Key Facts

Item Weight
1.05 pounds
Size
700x40C
Protection
SilkShield
Warranty
1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty

Pros

  • +Tubeless-ready bead allows lower pressure for better grip
  • +Dual compound balances rolling resistance and cornering traction
  • +SilkShield protection spans bead to bead
  • +1.05 lb weight is reasonable for a 40 mm gravel tire

Cons

  • −No tubeless sealant included for setup
  • −Only one size option listed
  • −No tread depth or compound hardness specs provided

Detailed Review

The Maxxis Rambler in 700x40C pairs tightly packed center knobs with taller side knobs, a layout that rolls quickly on hardpack but still bites when a gravel road turns loose. At 1.05 pounds, it sits in the middle of the gravel tire weight range, so it won't feel sluggish on long climbs but won't be the lightest option either. The SilkShield layer runs bead to bead, adding sidewall protection that matters on rocky descents where flint and sharp edges are common.

The dual compound tread uses two rubber hardnesses, which I see as a sensible compromise for riders who want cornering grip without giving up straight-line speed. Tubeless setup is supported, and the listing notes tubes can be used too, so it works with either rim type. The main trade-off is that sealant is not included, so you'll need to source that separately for a tubeless build.

I'd consider this a reasonable pick for mixed-surface rides where you want one tire to handle pavement connectors and gravel without swapping wheels. For my money, it suits gravel riders who prioritize a balance of speed and durability over maximum flotation.

FAQs

Can you run 700×40 tires on a 700×38 rim?

Yes, a 700×40 tire fits a rim designed for 700×38 as long as the rim’s internal width is within the tire’s recommended range, typically around 17 to 25mm. The wider tire adds volume for comfort on rough gravel, but check frame clearance at the chainstays and fork, since a 40mm tire can rub on frames rated for 38mm.

Is tubeless worth it for gravel tires?

Tubeless setup reduces pinch flats and lets you run lower pressure for traction on loose surfaces, which matters on long gravel rides far from cell service. It requires tubeless-ready rims and sealant, and setup can be messy. If you prefer simplicity, a standard tube works fine in most of these tires, though you lose the self-sealing benefit.

How do you choose between a slick centerline and a knobby tread?

A slick centerline rolls faster on pavement and hardpack, making it a good fit for mixed routes with long road sections. A knobby tread bites better in loose gravel, mud, and sandy corners. If your rides lean toward chunky gravel and dirt roads, prioritize shoulder knobs and a more aggressive profile over pure rolling speed.

Do wider gravel tires slow you down on pavement?

A wider tire adds rolling resistance and weight, so a 40mm tire feels slower than a 32mm on smooth tarmac. The trade-off is comfort and control on rough surfaces, where the wider tire often maintains speed better because it absorbs chatter. For routes that mix pavement and gravel, 40mm is a common compromise.

Final Thoughts

The right gravel tire comes down to matching the tread and casing to the surfaces you actually ride, not chasing the lightest or most aggressive option. A tire that rolls well on your typical route and holds up to the debris you encounter will serve you better than one that excels in conditions you rarely see.

My overall pick for best 700×40 gravel tires is the 2 Pack 700x38C Bike Tires Set,40-622 Folding. It suits commuters, touring riders, and anyone who wants a complete replacement set with tubes and levers included, and its folding bead makes it easy to carry a spare. The 40-622 size fits a range of 700c frames, and the reinforced rubber construction is built for wear resistance on pavement and light gravel. Riders who need maximum puncture protection for sharp flint or want a tubeless-ready racing tire should look at the WTB or Maxxis options instead. For everyone else, this set removes the guesswork of matching tires to tubes. Check the current price on Amazon.

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Garrett Vance
Written by Garrett Vance Senior Outdoor Gear & Tech Editor

Garrett Vance is the senior outdoor gear and tech editor at Nations Trails. Based in Bellingham, Washington, between the North Cascades and the coast, he covers hiking footwear, backpacks, trekking poles, rain shells and layers, cycling and snow sports gear, and outdoor electronics such as GPS watches and headlamps. He compares products on fit, weight, materials, and battery life so readers can pick gear that suits their own trips.

Marcus Holloway
Reviewed by Marcus Holloway Founder & Editor-in-Chief

Marcus Holloway is the founder and editor-in-chief of Nations Trails. He lives in Asheville, North Carolina, near the Blue Ridge Mountains, and leads the site's coverage of tents, sleeping bags and pads, camp stoves, water filters, portable power for camping, and backcountry safety gear. His guides focus on the details a product listing tends to bury, such as fabric weight, waterproof ratings, sleeping pad R-values, and battery capacity, and he reviews the site's guides before they are published.

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Contents
  1. Best 700×40 Gravel Tires at a Glance
  2. In-Depth Reviews
  3. FAQs
  4. Final Thoughts