SILCA has launched its new Protocol tyre range, a line-up of gravel and road tyres developed around modern rim widths, lower pressures and high-efficiency casing construction.
The brand said the range takes inspiration from cross-country mountain bike tyre design rather than scaling up traditional road tyre construction for gravel use. The result, according to SILCA, is a collection designed to improve speed, comfort, handling and durability across mixed terrain.
Protocol tyres use what SILCA calls an inverse proportional design, pairing larger air volumes with thinner, high-density 120 TPI casings. The company said the construction allows the tyres to deflect impact forces more effectively at today’s lower inflation pressures, helping to reduce flats while lowering rolling resistance and weight.
The launch is also the first tyre sponsorship for professional gravel rider Dylan Johnson, who has collaborated with SILCA on the new platform.
Johnson said: “Throughout my career, I’ve avoided official tyre sponsorships so I could strictly run whatever tested fastest in the lab and on the dirt. The Protocol line-up is the first time a tyre checks every box for volume, traction and speed, making this partnership with SILCA an easy decision.”
Technology and construction
- Pulsar Compound: SILCA’s SSBR and silica-reinforced rubber compound is designed to reduce internal energy loss while maintaining braking and cornering grip.
- Integrated Bias Casing Geometry: A casing, mould and construction profile intended to stabilise the tyre under load and reduce hysteresis.
- Variable height and asymmetrical tread design: Taller outer knobs engage earlier at gentler lean angles, while asymmetrical tread patterns are designed to optimise braking and acceleration forces.
- Carbon Bead Technology: A non-stretching carbon fibre bead replaces Kevlar, with the aim of improving rim fit and reducing stretch, moisture absorption and tyre wobble over time.
- True-to-size rim compatibility: Each model includes size-specific rim guidance and uses a latex-friendly mould release agent for improved tubeless sealant compatibility.
Joshua Poertner, CEO of SILCA, said: “For years, the industry approached gravel tyres by just slapping thick, heavy rubber onto traditional road tyre carcasses. We approached the Protocol line-up by first looking at lower-pressure dynamics. By optimising casing ply angles, tread profiles and material science together, we’ve created a tyre platform that is faster, lighter and more supple without sacrificing durability.”
The Protocol range comprises three gravel models and one high-volume road tyre.
Protocol tyre collection
Protocol RCG-1
The RCG-1 is intended for fast hardpack and mixed-surface gravel, including Category 1 and 2 gravel events and routes combining tarmac and dirt. It features a low, ramped directional centre tread with elevated side knobs for cornering grip.
Protocol RCG-3
The RCG-3 is positioned as an all-round rough-terrain gravel tyre for demanding Category 3 courses such as Unbound and Big Sugar. It uses tightly spaced centre knobs that increase in size towards the shoulder, plus a low-friction under-tread puncture breaker.
Protocol RCG-4
The RCG-4 is designed for adventure riding, mud and loose trail conditions. It uses aggressive, widely spaced lugs to shed mud and loam, with full bead-to-bead puncture protection for rough roads and singletrack.
Protocol RCR
The Protocol RCR is the road-focused model in the range, developed around increased air volume and reduced redundant material. SILCA said the 29mm version is optimised for modern 25mm internal hookless rims to meet ETRTO standards, while the 38mm model is designed to maximise volume within UCI regulation limits.
Pricing is set at $99 / €119 / £99, with Australian pricing at $159.95 and Canadian pricing at $149.
