Pirelli Cinturato Review: The Fastest-Rolling Wide Tire We've Tested

Robert Wilson · 2026-08-13

Belted. That's the direct translation of "Cinturato" from Italian to English, and with this set of rubber, the belt is clearly visible. A smooth strip of slick black wraps the circumference, offering what is easily the fastest-rolling 55mm-wide bike tire I have ever tested. At only 710g each (RH Team Edition), some of that speed comes via weight savings, but the real story is in how this tire transforms your ride on mixed terrain. ### Pirelli Cinturato Key Specs - **Weight:** 710g (700x55c tested) - **Sizes:** 700x40, 45, 50, and 55c - **Price:** $113.90 per tire - **Availability:** Through Pirelli dealers If you're looking to throttle up your mountain bike on road and gravel rides, this is a sweet way to go. The Cinturato tread is also a solid fit for riders who want to roll fast or race on hard-packed gravel roads where the dirt itself gives as much grip as the tire. It's a niche but growing segment, and Pirelli has clearly aimed this model at riders who prioritize speed without completely sacrificing traction. ### On-Road and Hardpack Performance Straight-line speed is where this tire shines. As an arrow flies, the Cinturato RH Team Edition tires are as fast and grippy as any, provided the earth is compact and dry. The center slick strip reduces rolling resistance noticeably, and I found myself carrying momentum longer on pavement sections between gravel stretches. For a tire this wide, the sensation is almost like riding a slick, yet you still get enough bite to feel confident when the pavement ends. Things change a bit when it's time to turn. For their intended use of hardpack gravel roads, there's ample traction with the shoulder tread. What starts as file tread on the shoulders thickens somewhat, but you would need an extreme lean to feel those side knobs on the dirt given the round profile of these tires. At max corner speed, they will grip, but they won't be far from slip. If you're the type who likes to rail corners aggressively, you'll want to dial back your angle or consider a more aggressive tire for loose conditions. ### Tire Pressure and Setup Tips Apart from racing gravel, I might mount these for bikepacking or long logging-road adventures. For those purposes, pressure will be an important point. I ran 25psi rear and 22 front and had no issues graveling with the Cinturato set. That setup gave me a comfortable balance of speed and compliance on packed surfaces. Add a payload and/or chunkier stones, and I might go up in pressure from there, as these lightweight casings aren't something I want to ding against too many pebbles. A sidewall tear on a remote trail would be a real bummer, so err on the side of caution when loading up. ### Pros and Cons **Pros:** - Decidedly fast rolling and lightweight - Excellent for hardpack and mixed road-gravel routes - Wide footprint adds stability at speed **Cons:** - Cornering grip is limited on loose or dusty surfaces - Lightweight casing feels vulnerable on rocky terrain - Not ideal for wet or muddy conditions ### Final Thoughts If your riding mix leans toward smooth gravel, fire roads, and pavement connectors, the Pirelli Cinturato is a compelling choice. It's not a do-everything tire, but it excels at what it's built for. For the $113.90 asking price, you're getting a premium product that will reward riders who value speed and efficiency over ultimate grip. Just keep your lean angles in check and your pressure dialed, and this tire will make your next adventure feel effortlessly quick.