Panaracer has unveiled its latest GravelKing tire, the ZX, positioning it as their “fastest ever one-tire solution for mixed terrain.” This tire is engineered to eliminate the need for frequent tire changes across various gravel courses. By integrating a slick center with aggressive side lugs, it aims to deliver a 60/40 split between tarmac speed (even on smooth gravel) and technical control. In testing, the 45mm variant proved remarkably easy to mount and offered greater speed than anticipated. It also provided exceptional cornering and descending confidence, thanks to a fast-rolling shoulder tread that grips effectively without noticeable drag. Priced at US$64.99 / £54.99 / €59.99, these tires represent excellent value.
Technical Specifications
- Model: Panaracer GravelKing ZX
- Available widths: 700c, from 35mm to 55mm
- Casing: TuffTex (standard high-performance armored construction), 120tpi
- Compound: Proprietary ZSG (Zero Slip Grip) Gravel
- Bead Technology: BeadLock (hookless compatible)
- Tread Design: Three-Zone architecture
Technical Breakdown: Understanding the Features
The ZX isn’t just a rebadged existing casing; it’s the product of extensive development focused on balancing race-level speed with endurance-level durability. This included a thorough research and development phase with six different mold iterations tested to perfect the tread profile, grip characteristics, and overall ride feel for optimal balance.
According to Jeff Zell, Panaracer’s Global Go-To Guy, “We’re excited to introduce the GRAVELKING ZX as the next evolution in our GRAVELKING range. Designed for today’s mixed-surface riding, it delivers race-ready speed alongside the grip and durability riders need when conditions become unpredictable.”
Key Technologies:
TuffTex Casing
The TuffTex construction is designed to resist damage from sharp gravel while maintaining a supple ride. It provides the necessary protection for challenging gravel sections, such as those found in races like Unbound or the varied terrains of the Michigan Gravel Race Series. The 120tpi carcass ensures that the durable casing remains flexible.
BeadLock Technology
The notorious difficulty in mounting previous GravelKing tires appears to be a thing of the past. BeadLock is a complete redesign of the bead shape, specifically engineered to securely “lock” onto the rim shelf of modern tubeless and hookless wheels. This technology simplifies installation and ensures the bead remains stable even at the lower pressures often used with high-volume tires.
ZSG (Zero Slip Grip) Gravel Compound
Consistent with Panaracer’s long-standing approach, the ZX utilizes a single compound formulation. Unlike multi-compound tires where grip can change as different layers wear, this single-compound design ensures predictable performance and long-term durability. It’s formulated for the demands of gravel riding, offering tackiness in various conditions without compromising rolling efficiency.
Three-Zone Architecture
The defining feature of the ZX is its tread pattern, divided into three zones:
- Zone 1 (Center): A smooth strip that minimizes rolling resistance on pavement and hard-packed gravel.
- Zone 2 (Inner Edge): A transitional tread that engages during braking and initial cornering, providing a predictable feel.
- Zone 3 (Outer Edge): Aggressive side lugs that offer mechanical grip for loose corners and technical descents.
Ride Impressions: Performance on the Course
Test Tires
We tested a pair of the 700c x 45mm standard ZX tires. Key specifications:
- Size: 700c x 45mm (black on black)
- Measured Width: 44.98mm on 24mm internal width rims
- Weight: 557g per tire. This weight is within the normal range for high-performance tubeless tires. A race version expected later is anticipated to be lighter.
Setup
Unboxing and mounting the tires were straightforward. Installation on DT Swiss GRC1400 rims (24mm internal width) was easy with a tire jack and a Crank Brothers Speedier Lever. The first tire seated perfectly with a high-volume floor pump, with the bead locking at around 50 psi. The second tire seated quickly with an air compressor, locking into the bead seat with a satisfying pop. If you’ve struggled with GravelKings in the past, these issues seem resolved.
After mounting and adding sealant, we set the tire pressure. While a calculator suggested 31.5 psi rear and 31 psi front, real-world testing favored a slightly firmer feel. For these 45mm tires (44.98mm measured width), we settled on 32 psi front and 34 psi rear. This provided increased confidence with slightly stiffer sidewalls. The measured width also allowed ample clearance on our test bike, which officially has a 47mm maximum tire clearance for 700C wheels.
Ride Quality and Stability
The ride felt smooth, even over rough gravel. Despite not using tire inserts, the ZX handled significant impacts and potholes without burping or losing air, confirming the security of the BeadLock interface. The “roll-in” felt natural and progressive. Unlike tires with thinner casings that can deform under heavy cornering loads, the ZX remained stable at all lean angles, tracking precisely where directed. Importantly, the shoulder blocks are shaped to transition smoothly from the center to the edge, providing a ride feel akin to a slick road tire.
The Shoulder Block “Mystery”
The performance of the shoulder blocks is a highlight. Although they appear to be oriented “backward” relative to the rotation arrow, this design is crucial for the tire’s mechanical traction. During maneuvers in loose gravel intersections, the blocks gripped firmly without any noticeable drag or resistance. There was no skidding or instability, just confident grip and directional control.
Another benefit of the shoulder blocks, as highlighted by Panaracer’s Three-Zone Architecture, is their performance on descents. Even at higher speeds on loose gravel, traction remained consistent. On a descent reaching 70 km/h, the tires tracked reliably. The suppleness of the casing, combined with the effective side blocks, was critical for maintaining directional stability.
As Andy noted, “Looking back at the Dirty 30 Gravel Grinder, it’s clear these tires would have let me push harder through the corners. These tires just lock in when you tip them over.”
Acceleration and Climbing
Despite the weight of the tires (over 1100g for the pair), the ZX never felt sluggish during accelerations or climbs. Any potential weight penalty from these “standard” tires seemed to be negated by the smooth and efficient rolling of the center tread.
Pricing and Availability
The GravelKing ZX is available now for selected models and widths, with the full range rolling out through spring and summer. Prices are as follows:
| Model | Availability | US MSRP | EU MSRP | UK MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZX Standard (700 x 45C & 50C) | Available April 14 | $64.99 | €59.99 | £54.99 |
| ZX+ / ZX R (700 x 45C & 50C) | May 2026 | $69.99 / $79.99 | €74.99 | £64.99 |
| ZX Standard (700 x 40C & 55C) | July 2026 | $64.99 | €59.99 | £54.99 |
| ZX+ / ZX R (700 x 40C & 55C) | July–Aug 2026 | $69.99 / $79.99 | €74.99 | £64.99 |
| ZX Standard (700 x 35C) | September 2026 | $64.99 | €59.99 | £54.99 |
| ZX+ / ZX R (700 x 35C) | October 2026 | $69.99 / $79.99 | €74.99 | £64.99 |
The Bottom Line
The GravelKing ZX is a confidence-inspiring all-in-one tire solution that effectively bridges the gap between a pure road slick and a heavy-duty gravel tire. Its ability to provide stable cornering on unpredictable surfaces while maintaining high-speed efficiency on pavement and smooth gravel makes it an excellent choice for the diverse demands of modern gravel riding and racing. With its easy setup, secure feel, and supple ride, it’s a standout performer that encourages aggressive riding without any apparent technical compromises.
For more details and to order directly, visit Panaracer.com.