Hutchinson Caracal Race Tubeless Gravel Tyre — 700×40c Tubeless Folding Tire
The Hutchinson Caracal Race is a high-performance gravel tire engineered for riders who want the lowest possible rolling resistance and maximum speed on hardpack roads and gravel surfaces. Built with a lightweight SwiftEasy casing and Mach Tread 3.0 compound, this tire delivers fast rolling characteristics without sacrificing essential grip where it matters most. 475 GRAMS!!!
📄 Independent Rolling Resistance Lab Test
Tire Lab Test: Hutchinson Caracal Race TLR (tan) 40 – Bicycle Rolling Resistance
This review finds that the Caracal Race, with its SwiftEasy casing and Mach Tread 3.0 compound, delivers extremely low rolling resistance and is widely regarded as the fastest semi-slick gravel bike tire tested to date — even ahead of many competing gravel tires in its class.
Excerpt from the test:
“Hutchinson has delivered the fastest semi-slick gravel bike tire to date, and we’re impressed by the overall performance of the Caracal Race.” – Bicycle Rolling Resistance
This 700×40mm tubeless-ready folding tire is designed for racers and performance-oriented gravel riders who prioritize efficiency and agility over aggressive tread for deep loose terrain.
Key Functional Details
- Size: 700×40c (ISO 40-622)
- SwiftEasy casing with 127 TPI for flexibility and low rolling resistance
- Mach Tread 3.0 compound for efficient, smooth rolling performance
- Tubeless-ready folding bead for lightweight and easy setup
- Weight: ~475g (actual varies slightly by sidewall and build)
- Color: Black (sidewall dependent on variant)
Compatibility & Technical Notes
- Designed for gravel bikes with 700c wheels and clearance for ~40mm tires
- Tubeless setups require appropriate tape, valves, and sealant
- Suitable for tubeless or tube installations
- Best performance on hardpack, paved gravel, and fast mixed terrain
- Not optimized for deep mud, heavy loose sand, or technical loose rock
Service / Ownership Context
Proper tubeless setup significantly impacts performance and flat resistance—ensure tape seals well and check seating at correct pressures. Rolling resistance advantages are most noticeable at sustained speeds above ~18–20 mph, where power transfer efficiency matters. Inspect tire bead seating and sealant distribution after initial installation.
Fit & Use Signals
- Good fit if you want a fast gravel tire for hardpack and paved gravel
- Good fit for racing, Fondo, and high-speed mixed surface riding
- Good fit if your bike has clearance for ~40mm tires
- Not a fit for very muddy or loose soft surfaces
- Not a fit if you want maximum puncture belts or deep-lug off-road grip