Specialized Pathfinder TLR: A Deep Dive into the Gravel Tire Choice of Pro Cyclists
The best professional cyclists don’t always get to choose their equipment, even though it often appears they are riding perfectly dialed setups. In reality, sponsorship decisions and requirements often supersede athlete preferences. This compromise is particularly evident in kit choices, especially for athletes sponsored by large companies with diverse product lines.
Specialized and its factory teams exemplify this dynamic. While fundamentally a bike company, Specialized also produces wheels, shoes, helmets, clothing, and tires. Athletes are drawn to the brand for its bikes and expertise, and in return, often use the full suite of products, even if they might prefer alternatives.
This has significant implications in gravel cycling, where Specialized tires have become increasingly important, with riders like Tadej Pogačar and Demi Vollering becoming key marketing assets for the brand. Five of the top men and women gravel racers, including Keegan Swenson, Sofia Gomez Villafane, and Matt Beers, are required to use them.
The Specialized Pathfinder TLR 50mm tire is a popular choice for these athletes. But is it worth considering if you don’t have a sponsorship obligation? After testing, the answer is a qualified yes, but with caveats.
Quick Hits: Five Things to Know About the Specialized Pathfinder TLR
- The Specialized Pathfinder TLR is an updated version of the Pathfinder Pro, offering more width options, a latest sidewall construction, and improved rolling resistance.
- The tire is one of three gravel tread patterns from Specialized – the others are the Tracer and the Terra – and is available in 35, 40, 45, and 50mm widths.
- The Pathfinder features a wide center strip for rolling speed combined with small side knobs for traction.
- It utilizes Specialized’s Gripton T2/T5 rubber compound and a 60TPI 3-ply TLR casing.
- The 50mm tire weighs 580g and has a MSRP of $64.99.
For more information, check out the tire page from Specialized.
High Upside, Especially for Light Gravel
The Specialized Pathfinder has a legacy in gravel racing, having been a popular choice at events like Unbound in 2021 and 2022, particularly in the 40-42mm width.
While larger-volume tires have gained popularity, there’s no definitive proof they are always faster. Frame limitations also play a role. This has led to a resurgence of 48-50mm gravel tires aiming to combine the weight, aerodynamics, and geometry benefits of traditional gravel tires with the rolling resistance advantages of increased volume. The updated Pathfinder TLR 50mm fits this trend, and is the fastest rolling option of the three Specialized gravel tires.
The Pathfinder feels rapid on various surfaces, especially pavement and hard-packed gravel. It’s one of the quietest gravel tires tested on pavement, which can indicate reduced drag. Specialized claims a 19% speed improvement over its predecessor, a claim that, while unverified, aligns with the impression of a fast, lightweight, and reasonably flat-resistant tire. The casing also appears durable, withstanding tough desert rides and 100 miles of gravel racing in Oklahoma.
Testing at the Mid South Gravel race in Oklahoma, known for its hard-packed red dirt roads, climbs, and descents, confirmed the Pathfinder’s suitability for such terrain. Its semi-slick construction aids in climbing and resists mud.
For racers, the Pathfinder is a viable option, especially on courses with frequent pavement and limited technical sections.
New Gravel Cyclists Beware: The Pathfinder Rewards Experience
Despite its positives, the Pathfinder TLR isn’t for everyone. The tire operates within specific thresholds that some riders may find challenging.
Notably, traction is limited. Even compared to the previous Pathfinder, the 50mm version feels slick. The side tread offers minimal grip, and the tire can slide unexpectedly. Experienced riders comfortable with controlled drifts may appreciate this characteristic, but it’s not ideal for those newer to off-road riding.
The narrow pressure range is another consideration. Pressures above 30 PSI feel harsh and compromise traction, while pressures below 25 PSI can lead to sidewall flex. A suspension fork, like the Cane Creek Invert, can help mitigate this issue, allowing for slightly firmer pressures while maintaining comfort and traction.
Value and Conclusion
The Pathfinder TLR’s most significant advantage may be its price. At $65 USD, it’s one of the most affordable race-worthy gravel tires on the market.
However, the Pathfinder isn’t necessarily the best choice for beginners. The Specialized Terra is a more forgiving option. For experienced gravel cyclists seeking speed, a frugal option, and a willingness to accept some risk, the Pathfinder TLR, as used by Beers, Swenson, and Villafane, is a compelling choice.