Pirelli Cinturato Gravel S review: Made for mud, not tarmac

The Pirelli Cinturato Gravel S is a gravel tyre designed primarily for muddy and slippery conditions, prioritising traction over speed. Positioned at the aggressive end of Pirelli’s gravel range, it features large, widely spaced centre knobs and pronounced side lugs that provide excellent grip on soft terrain. The tyre’s robust construction, including a reinforced 60 TPI TechWALL casing and the durable Speedgrip compound, aims to enhance puncture resistance and longevity, making it well suited for challenging winter rides. During testing in wet and muddy conditions around Bristol and the Scottish Highlands, the Gravel S demonstrated exceptional performance in mud, allowing riders to maintain momentum where less aggressive tyres would falter. Its tread design effectively sheds mud, preventing clogging and ensuring consistent grip, while the chunky shoulder knobs offer confidence-inspiring cornering stability. However, the tyre’s aggressive design comes at a cost on tarmac, where it feels heavy and sluggish, requiring noticeably more effort during road sections. The Gravel S weighs approximately 570 grams in the 700x45c size, placing it among the heavier gravel tyres, comparable to rivals like the Vittoria Terreno T90. It is tubeless-ready and compatible with hookless rims, and its rugged aesthetic, especially in the gumwall variant, reflects its focus on durability and reliability rather than speed or sleekness. The tyre’s tough build and mud-specialist design make it a compelling choice for riders frequently tackling wet, muddy trails in winter conditions. Pirelli’s claim that the tyre prioritises “control and safety in every condition” is borne out in its performance, with testers reporting increased confidence and the ability to ride more aggressively on slippery surfaces. While not ideal for mixed terrain rides with significant road sections, the Cinturato Gravel S excels in its intended environment, offering a dependable option for riders who need maximum traction in adverse weather. Its durability and reasonable price point further enhance its appeal for winter-focused gravel cycling.