Panaracer GravelKing SK+ in review

The Panaracer GravelKing SK+ has been around almost for as long as gravel riding itself. And one of the first and most successful gravel tires on the market is still going strong. But can the all-rounder hold its own against the competition in our big gravel tire group test?

With the GravelKing SK+, Panaracer embody the beginnings of gravel riding. With the dense centre tread and pronounced shoulder knobs, the all-round SK+ model promises to be the gravel tire of choice for all terrain, not just gravel. Its look also cuts a fine figure on retro bikes. Could that make it the perfect option for you?
Like the GravelKing+, the SK+ is also a bit more difficult to fit. With sturdy tire levers and a little practice, however, it’s easy enough to do.

Textbook gravel – Panaracer GravelKing SK+

The Panaracer GravelKing SK+ can certainly do gravel and leisurely tours. With its dense tread pattern, the tire feels planted and secure in the corners, and it’s capable of handling almost any type of gravel. However, it doesn’t fare as well on the trails, for which you’ll find significantly better tires in the test field, even in the all-round category. Unfortunately, the same can be said about the Panaracer’s performance on asphalt. Generating 22.6 W rolling resistance, it ranks among the slowest tires on test, less efficient even than some of the knobbiest models. Unfortunately, the GravelKing SK+ is no fun in the wet either, sliding around like few other tires in the test. The Panaracer’s average compliance cannot make up for this.

Conclusion

The Panaracer GravelKing SK+ clearly belongs in the all-round category. If you’re willing to overlook the lack of efficiency, the Panaracer GravelKing SK+ is an iconic and good-looking gravel tire. For ambitious gravel riders, however, there are grippier and faster models on the market, even in the same category. However, if you prioritise puncture protection, you’ve come to the right place. The GravelKing SK+ sets the bar in terms of robustness and durability.

Tops

• best puncture protection on test
• classic look
• excellent, confidence inspiring handling on gravel

Flops

• high rolling resistance
• too little grip for trails

Made in Japan | Tested size 40-622 | Tire width in mm¹ 42,4 | Tire height in mm¹ 36,67 | Tire height + Test rim in mm² 81,99 | Weight 542,2 g | Price 59,95 €
1 measured dimensions with 2,5 Bar, 2 Test rim: ZIPP 303s 622 x 20.3C (Rim height 45,32 mm)

For more information head to: panaracer.com

In our introduction of the best gravel tire on test you can’t just find our most interesting findings and our overall conclusion, but a good view on all tires tested.

All tires on review: Challenge Getaway (Click for review) | Challenge Gravel Grinder (Click for review) | Continental Terra Speed (Click for review) | Continental Terra Trail (Click for review) | Maxxis Rambler (Click for review) | Maxxis Receptor (Click for review) | Panaracer Gravelking (Click for review) | Panaracer Gravelking Slick Plus+ | Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H (Click for review) | Pirelli Cinturato Gravel RC (Click for review) | Schwalbe G-One Allround (Click for review) | Schwalbe G-One R (Click for review) | Schwalbe G-One RS (Click for review) | Schwalbe G-One Ultrabite (Click for review) | Specialized S-Works Pathfinder (Click for review) | Specialized S-Works Tracer (Click for review) | Vittoria Terreno Dry (Click for review) | Vittoria Terreno Mix (Click for review) | WTB Riddler (Click for review) | WTB Byway (Click for review)

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Words & Photos: mschneider