WTB Vulpine S tyre review

WTB has redesigned the Vulpine tyre, introducing a continuous central tread and claiming it to be the fastest gravel tyre in its range. The Vulpine S rolls smoothly and quietly, and it’s clear which rival it’s been developed to battle. However, the S version struggles to live up to the brilliance of the original Vulpine, which is considered one of the best gravel tyres.

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WTB Vulpine S tyre – Technical details

The Vulpine S is available in two sizes and two carcass colour options, all featuring the same tread pattern and continuous centreline.

Each tyre uses WTB’s SG carcass construction, which incorporates multiple layers and an additional sidewall layer for enhanced puncture resistance. Widths of 40mm and 45mm are offered, with a choice of black or tan sidewalls.

All variants use WTB’s Dual DNA compound, with a firmer rubber in the centre to aid rolling speed, and a softer compound on the edges to boost cornering grip.

WTB Vulpine S Fitted 1.jpg, by Matthew Page

The construction features a 120tpi casing across all sizes and colours. The black version carries a slight weight penalty, with claimed weights for the 45mm model at 560g (tan) and 580g (black). The actual weights of the tested 700 x 45mm black tyres were 558g and 560g — both under the claimed figures.

WTB has also transitioned to entirely plastic-free packaging, using 100% recycled materials. The tyres are simply folded and packed in a cardboard box — a positive move at a time when more brands are aiming to reduce waste, though few have achieved a fully plastic-free approach.

WTB Vulpine S tyre – Performance

Fitting and inflating the Vulpine S was straightforward, as expected, especially given that they were mounted to WTB’s CZR i23 rims. The tyres were also fitted to a set of DT Swiss GRC 1100 wheels, and on both, the tyres were seated easily by hand without the need for tyre levers, and inflation with a standard track pump posed no issues. Once inflated to 25psi, the tyre measured the stated 45mm with the WTB rim, which has an internal width of 23mm, as the name suggests.

The combination of a wider tyre and the 120tpi casing contributes to a reasonably supple ride feel, although the level of feedback doesn’t quite match the best options on the market. This may be down to the SG casing, which adds an extra layer of puncture protection. WTB uses this casing across a range of tyres, and in all the sizes and models I’ve tested, it has proven consistently tough and dependable — even on fast, rocky descents.

WTB Vulpine S Fitted 2.jpg, by Matthew Page

With its pronounced central ridge, it’s clear that the Vulpine S has been developed to rival the Specialized Pathfinder, a tyre that’s become a popular choice for riders and racers alike, particularly in the US.

In terms of grip, however, I found the Vulpine S to be underwhelming — perhaps due in part to the terrain I usually ride and because the original Vulpine set a higher bar. Despite being limited to a 36mm width initially, the original delivered more grip than expected. It has since been updated and is now available in 40mm and 45mm widths.

The Vulpine S feels smooth and rolls quietly on tarmac, but off-road grip, particularly rear traction, can be problematic. I tested the tyres at pressures between 25 and 30psi, and traction issues arose on loose grit, steeper forest roads, dry and wet grass, and muddier terrain. Climbing often led to slipping, especially when out of the saddle. Braking traction was similarly inconsistent, although cornering performance was notably better, making use of the tread on the edge of the tyre. On firmer forest roads and tracks with a loose top layer, I felt confident leaning the bike into corners.

While the tyre gives an impression of speed, it wouldn’t be my first choice for a competitive gravel race — unless the course was especially rough, in which case the added protection could prove advantageous. WTB doesn’t provide rolling resistance data to support its claim that this is their fastest gravel tyre, and based on feeling alone, it didn’t seem as quick as the Schwalbe G-One RS, which I tested in the same 45mm width.

WTB Vulpine S tyre – Verdict

For riders seeking a fast-rolling, smooth tyre, particularly those who spend most of their time on the road or firm tracks, the Vulpine S could be a great option. However, for general British riding conditions, the standard Vulpine remains the better choice. Now available in 40mm and 45mm widths, it delivers surprisingly good traction despite the minimal-looking tread, while still rolling quickly and efficiently.

WTB Vulpine S Fitted Front.jpg, by Matthew Page

At £65 across all sizes and sidewall options, the Vulpine S sits firmly in the premium price bracket and is more expensive than many competitors. For comparison, the popular Specialized Pathfinder is available in several versions, with the top-tier S-Works model priced at £50 and the TLR Fast Gravel version (available in 35, 40, and 45mm) coming in at just £45.

The Vulpine S isn’t a bad tyre, but the main issue is that it offers little, if any, advantage over the standard Vulpine. There’s no noticeable improvement in rolling speed, yet a clear reduction in traction. That said, the SG carcass has proven durable, the ride is smooth, and the addition of a 45mm has come in handy.

If your riding is primarily on Tarmac or very firm, hardpack-style terrain, the Vulpine S may suit your needs. For mixed conditions and typical British gravel, though, the original Vulpine is still the better all-round option.

• wtb.com
• The reader’s guide to off.road.cc’s review scoring system

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