Low Rolling Resistance. All-Around Grip
For most of the gravel riding in the Pacific Northwest, traction and volume are the primary concerns when choosing tires. But you should never discount rolling resistance on a long day or when there’s a good percentage of paved road miles on deck. Our latest gravel tire review is the Kenda Alluvium Pro. It’s a tire that walks the line between low rolling resistance and all-terrain traction very well.
Alluvium Pro Gravel Tires – Optimized for Speed
In the words of Kenda, the Alluvium Pro gravel tire features “a tread design optimized for speed.” And I agree. While still definitely an all-around tire, the Alluvium’s tread pattern favors low rolling resistance over knobby grip.
The design is akin to a file tread but has proven to offer better traction than a straight-up file pattern. The tightly packed hexagonal knobs seem to be soft enough for greater independent movement than a more static file design, which gives it a wider range of traction. Add sizable side knobs, and the Alluvium Pro is a solid performer for routine training rides that are 50/50 gravel and pavement while still handling weekend adventure rides and rugged terrain with plenty of gusto. Because of their tight pattern, the sweet spot for the Kenda Alluvium tires is hard-pack dirt and gravel versus dry and loose surfaces.
One reason they perform well on rugged terrain is due to their wide, round profile. The 700×40 Alluvium Pro measures in at a healthy 41mm on my wide — 26mm internal width — rims.
Volume + Tread = Versatility
If balancing rolling efficiency with reliable traction in a gravel tire is what you’re after, the Kenda Alluvium Pro does an admirable job. I’ve logged hundreds of miles on a set in just about every weather condition and gravel variety you can imagine. Mud is not their forte, but when it comes to rolling between tarmac and damp to dry gravel and hard dirt surfaces, they provide a predictable, confident ride.
Kenda’s gravel-specific casing (GCT) has proven robust, and the tread durability is long-wearing. The Alluvium Pro gravel tires offer a good blend of volume, traction and smooth rolling. They’re a solid choice as a do-it-all tire. They’re avail in 700×35, 700×40, 700×45 as well as 650×45.
Check availability and pricing on the Kenda Alluvium Pro Gravel Tires at backcountry.com or at JensenUSA
Read more of our gravel tire reviews or our Tubeless Tire Tips and Tricks article. Or see EVO’s picks for the best gravel Bikes
Using our product links helps support offpistemag.com. While the website is partially funded through affiliate sales, we only review and promote products we test and believe merit being highlighted.
