r/gravelcycling

Per Silca, “When speed off road is the goal, Protocol RCG-1 is the go to option. The first ever gravel tire that was developed around modern sizes first. RCG-1 is the fastest option available for the biggest races.” RCG stands for Race Casing Gravel.

I’ve been testing prototypes of this tire for months, as indicated by the tire in my photos, but other than the label this particular tire is THE Protocol RCG-1 production version released today. Generally, I would refuse the initial prototype phases and wait for the final ones, but agreed to all of it as they were kinda what I wanted to see exist but didn’t yet.

Claimed weight for these is 535 grams, I think mine were a few over that but close. Light. They aired up easily and are exactly 55 mm wide on a 25 mm internal width rim. Silca suggests their own sealant but I used Orange Seal per usual with an identical amount used in other 700 x 55 tires I have tested for absolute consistency in my own testing.

These have what is called a Pulsar compound for absolute speed and GhostShield protection (vs SealSkin on the RCG3 and RCG4) with a Race casing. They also have a 120 tpi casing, going to show again, tires are more than their individual specs, as plenty of high thread count tires aren’t fast.

The results are quite clear here. Fast. Insane fast.

I tested them back to back each surface with previously tested 700 x 55 RS Pros from Schwalbe, my current control tire set. It’s always nice to have absolute certainty, as well as some subjective impressions on a new tire.

Silca suggests running 1-2 psi higher than other similar gravel tires, which I can back up as I realized it on my own based on ride feel.

All outdoor results are my own via VE testing through GitHub Virtual Elevation Analyzer. Thanks Hannes.

Has anyone here tried either, or ideally both, the Wolf Tooth ALT and DEL pedals?

I know Wolf Tooth says the DEL has the bigger platform, but looking at them in person the difference doesn’t look massive at all. Maybe it matters more because SPD pedals are small anyway to begin with, but I’m trying to work out if it’s actually noticeable on the bike.

I’m a road cyclist, but I’m looking at SPD pedals/shoes for certain rides. I don’t really care about the weight difference. The main thing I’m trying to decide is whether the "larger" plate on the DEL is worth giving up dual-sided entry on the ALT.

For anyone who has used either, or both, did the DEL actually feel noticeable more supportive?

Was looking for a cost effective way to jump up to 48t on the front, and capture data for power! Was able to combine two eBay purchases into one solution.

Powermeter Cranks - $250
Chainring 48/31 - $80

The front mech still needs a little adjustment, and I have a spare 105 front if I need it. I’ve seen that chain line adjustments are part of the deal here… but I’m super excited to capture more data. Training to power is easy indoors, and I’d love to bring some of that to this.

Picked up a flat bar G1 Explorer on clearance. Swapped out the saddle and threw on some 45mm SS Gravelkings.

After about a hundred miles I can safely say this big dawg can punch well above the price class after the right upgrades and a quick QC check.

I have always been a casual rider with more of a leisurely bike, but my spouse started gravel cycling a few years and after volunteering at their last big race, I decided I wanted to spend more time joining group rides and hanging with gravel friends, so I tried riding our Specialized 52 (initially thought it fit). It was unfortunately much bigger than I realized and caused a lot of issues, so I got this Specialized Diverge Sport in the 49 size. Carbon frame. Shimano GRX 600. Have since added a frame protector as well. Excited to ride this more - already very much more comfortable and I have a bike fit coming up to help fine tune some of the alignment. Working on more time in the saddle and prep for what is hopefully my first gravel race at the end of September!

Bought my first bike. Fell in love with gravel bikes, decided to have one. Here are some photos from my trips.

Cube Nuroad Race XL 2026, cappuccino and black

Starting riding in May and pushing a little further each time. 80mi today which included some CRAZY slop that was unexpected. Shout out to Mrs. Judy from a small town called Barwick in Georgia that let me use her hose to clean up mid ride. She was nice enough to hit me with a Gatorade too.

first ride on my new Cube Nuroad EX 2027 :-)

Hey guys, I’ve been thinking about changing my bike.

I currently have a 2024 Topstone Carbon 3 with around 1,000 km on it. I really like it: it’s comfortable, playful, and has been great for bikepacking. But I’d love something a bit faster on the road, with more tyre clearance, internal storage and cleaner cable routing.

I’m looking at the new Topstone, but I’m not sure the upgrade would be big enough to justify selling a bike I genuinely love. For those who have ridden both generations: is there a major difference in ride quality or performance, or would you keep the old one and upgrade it over time instead?

Thanks!

Orbea Terra M30 Team, Zipp 303 XPLR SW, Schwalbe G-One R Pro

Upgraded my 2025 Terra H40 to this and I was just smiling all the time on my first ride. Changing the stock wheels was a must in my opinion.

Year later. Many miles, many smiles.

From gravel to running to grab some pizzas for lunch this bike ROCKS

Oh- and 68% humidity. Screw hills. I hate them like Anakin hates sand.