Pirelli unveils MTB-style Cinturato Gravel RC X tyre
Pirelli has expanded its gravel tyre range with the introduction of the Cinturato Gravel RC X tyre. Designed to tackle rugged terrains and endure demanding conditions in iconic gravel races or during bikepacking trips, the "X" in the name stands for "extreme."
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This new offering builds upon the success of Pirelli's gravel race-focused Gravel RC tyre, which was launched last year. The Cinturato Gravel RC X features a similar tread pattern to its predecessor, inspired by the Scorpion XC RC mtb tyre. The tread incorporates a lower central tread to minimise rolling resistance on smooth surfaces, while the dense knobs on the sides should enhance the cornering grip. Pirelli has used its SpeedGRIP compound in the tyre, boasting durability, reduced rolling resistance, and excellent performance on wet surfaces.
Setting itself apart from the base RC model, the Cinturato RC X showcases a casing structure called TechWALL X. This structure comprises a 60tpi nylon casing with an extended overlap on the sidewall, enhancing the tyre's resistance to cuts. Additionally, like other tyres in Pirelli's Gravel range, the new model incorporates high-density square fabric that covers the tyre bead-to-bead, offering additional cut resistance and stability.
The Cinturato Gravel RC X is currently available in three widths, with 35mm and 40mm options available immediately and a 45mm version set for a later release. There are both tan sidewall and black options available and the claimed weight for the 40mm variant is 560g. The black-wall version retails for £68, while the tan-wall version is priced at £70.