Meet the New Panaracer Gravelking SS Semi Slick: Ridden & Reviewed!

“Panaracer is proud to announce the latest addition to the Gravelking family, the Gravelking SS and SS+.” – Panaracer

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review

Panaracer introduces the Gravelking SS (Semi Slick), the newest member of the gravel tire family with an all-new tread pattern.

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review

Building on the success of the standard Gravelking and the Gravelking SK – both industry-leading tires in the gravel category – Panaracer has developed the next generation of the gravel tires in the Gravelking SS and SS+.

Video Review: Riding the GK SS, Weights & Mounting Process

Update since the video! 700c x 38mm is available!

Further Information about the Gravelking SS & SS+

Designed as a dryer condition, race day ready and fast-rolling tire, the SS/SS+ was made for those riders who want to go fast while maintaining great control, traction and climbing prowess.

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review
Panaracer Gravelking SS Semi Slick in Black Sidewall

The SS and SS+ feature an all-new tread pattern consisting of a smoother, diamond pattern center with more aggressive side lugs. This tread pattern allows the rider to keep speed going into corners and maintain control throughout any transition a gravel ride could present.

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review
Panaracer Gravelking SS+ Semi Slick in Black Sidewall

“As more and more races and events appeared on the gravel calendar with a wider variety of terrain, it became apparent that we needed a tire that sat firmly between the slick version of the Gravelking and the more robust Gravelking SK,” said Jeff Zell, Panaracer’s Global Go-To Guy.  “We performed extensive testing with our gravel team in events like The Mid South, The Hondo, Georgia Grinduro, and others where the SS tire really shines.”

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review
Rolling along on the Panaracer Gravelking SS

The Gravelking SS incorporates a supple 126 TPI casing with a nylon puncture-resistant belt and Panaracer’s proprietary ZSG (Zero Slip Grip) compound.

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review
Red Clay Roads of Southern Georgia, USA

The Gravelking SS+ uses the same build as the SS but adds a bead-to-bead layer of Panaracer’s ProTite puncture material for even more protection against tread and sidewall cuts for those extra demanding courses or rides with sharp flint rock.

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review
Grippy during cornering

Both SS and SS+ tires will be available in black and brown sidewall options and in the following sizes: 700 x 28, 32, 35, 38, 43c or 27.5 x 1.9 (650b x 48).

panaracer gravelking ss semi slick tire review
Performs well in the Georgia mud, clears quickly

The SS will be available in early June 2020 and the SS+ in early July, 2020.

MSRP is $US 49.99 for the SS, $US 59.99 for the SS+, available from Amazon, below:

Links of Interest:

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20 Comments

  1. Avatar Stephen

    How is fast cornering on bitumen? Any dodginess there?

    Also, totally unrelated, I notice you were wearing Salomon shoes in the tyre mounting segment. I find these a good fit and really wish they’d make cycling shoes, and am wondering what brand(s) of cycling shoes fit you well? Thanks JOM. 😉

    • JOM JOM

      Stephen, I don’t rail corners crit style anymore, but they are grippy making the turns. I quite like my Salomon shoes, even if they are designed for trail running, yet I don’t run. I own about four pairs, most of which are nearing the end of their serviceable life 🙁

    • Avatar D

      Check out newer line of Mavic shoes, they have collaborated with Salomon to make cycling shoes

  2. Avatar John McG

    This is the tire I’ve been waiting for, but in the 38 width. Did you get any word on why no 38 like on their other line?

    • JOM JOM

      John, this just in, 700c x 38mm is available, there was an error in Panaracer’s info. Check them out here – https://bit.ly/2WEFCZU – you can pre-order there.

  3. Avatar Shaun

    Interesting they went from 35 to 43, skipping the 2 most popular sizes, 38 and 40.

  4. Avatar Lukasz Tkacz

    Hey! You tested 35c, what was real width (and on what rim)?

    • JOM JOM

      Did you watch the review? The wheelset was mentioned and linked.

  5. Avatar Rene Ortega

    Came here from your YT vid. I’m doing the BWR in November (assuming it still happens…). With the 40+ miles of dirt combined with the pavement I think these tires will do the trick. Just gotta figure out the width. Great info…thank you!

  6. Avatar bruce

    JOM, thanks very much for the review! If you had to pick between the WTB Byway and the Panaracer SS, both in 650b, which would it be?

    • JOM JOM

      Panaracer SS without doubt. Lighter and I believe, faster.

  7. Vig

    Great review. Have you tried the Continental Terra Speed or Terra Trail?

  8. Avatar Paul

    Did you notice these tyres move around on your carbon rim?
    I have a Gravelking SK+ in 700×43 which waltzes around the rim no matter what, but the Gravelking SK in 700×43 hasn’t moved a millimetre.

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