Gravel tire choice gets framed as a single axis — fast versus grippy — but that framing falls apart the moment you ride mixed terrain. The Specialized Tracer TLR tread is similar to the Terra TLR, but with slightly lower, more closely spaced knobs, with a central strip of wider knobs that provides solid power transfer and a more open tread toward the shoulders with increasingly aggressive side knobs, positioning the Tracer TLR as the most versatile gravel tire in Specialized's line-up. It's the middle option in the gravel range — less aggressive than the Terra, more capable than the Pathfinder.

The compound is Specialized's Gripton T5, the fastest version of their Gripton compound available today. The Tracer TLR comes with a 60 TPI casing, and the BlackBelt anti-puncture strip has been removed compared to the old Tracer Pro 2Bliss Ready, which resulted in a significant weight saving — the specified weight of the 40mm Tracer TLR is now 460 grams, while the old 42mm Tracer Pro 2Bliss Ready came in at 525 grams. If you're coming off the previous Tracer Pro, the new tire is meaningfully lighter but trades some puncture protection to get there — worth knowing before you pick a pressure for chunky terrain.

The tire sits in the sweet spot for most gravel riding. Despite its lower-profile tread, the tire proves to be a capable performer on gravel and hardpack, pairs well with just about any gravel bike, and even holds its own on the road — in terms of traction, it's a true all-rounder. Thanks to the shallow tread and round profile, the Tracer TLR sits firmly on the more agile side, allowing you to react quickly and precisely — it's a lively, engaging ride that really comes into its own with a more aggressive riding style. The Tracer TLR is offered in 700x40, 700x45, and 700x50, all with tan sidewalls; the 700x45 is also offered in black.... Read More