Silca

Protocol RCG-3 Tubeless 700c Gravel Tire

XC race tire thinking, engineered for modern gravel
The SILCA Protocol RCG-3 takes the architecture of a modern XC mountain bike tire and adapts it specifically for fast, demanding gravel. Rather than relying on a thick, heavy casing to provide protection, SILCA combines a high-volume 120 TPI casing with targeted puncture protection, a progressive tread design and modern gravel tire pressures to create a tire that is fast, supple and ready for rough terrain. 

Built for High-Speed Gravel Where Protection Matters
The RCG-3 is designed for the unpredictable conditions found on demanding gravel courses. SILCA's construction adds protection beneath the tread while maintaining the casing flexibility needed for efficient rolling and a lively ride feel.

The result is a tire designed to handle sharp rocks, rough surfaces and changing terrain without turning into the heavy, sluggish tire that traditional protection-focused gravel designs can become.

120 TPI Race Casing
At the heart of the RCG-3 is a high-volume 120 TPI Race Casing. The supple casing allows the tire to conform to uneven surfaces while maintaining the controlled feel needed for high-speed gravel riding.

SILCA tunes the RCG-3 for slightly higher pressures than the RCG-1, helping stabilize the casing and contact patch when the terrain becomes rough and impacts become more frequent.

SealSkin Puncture Protection
The RCG-3 adds SILCA's SealSkin protection layer beneath the tread to provide additional resistance against punctures and impacts.

Rather than simply making the entire casing thicker, SILCA concentrates protection where it is most useful. This allows the RCG-3 to add resilience without giving up the ride quality and rolling efficiency expected from a race-oriented gravel tire.

Progressive Tread Architecture
The RCG-3 uses tightly spaced, elongated center knobs that progressively increase in height and size toward the shoulders.

The center tread keeps the tire moving efficiently, while the increasing knob height creates additional traction as the tire is leaned into a corner. This helps maintain a larger, more stable contact patch on loose surfaces and reduces the tendency for the casing to deform underneath the tread. Designed for Cornering Traction
As the bike moves farther off-center, the RCG-3's taller shoulder tread engages progressively rather than suddenly. This provides a more predictable transition from straight-line rolling to aggressive cornering.

The result is additional grip and stability when the gravel gets loose, rough or unpredictable.

Pulsar Compound
SILCA's Pulsar compound is designed to balance rolling efficiency, grip and durability. Combined with the high-volume casing and tread architecture, it gives the RCG-3 the ability to maintain speed on smoother sections while still providing the traction needed when the surface deteriorates.

Carbon BeadLock
Silca's Carbon BeadLock replaces traditional Kevlar bead material with carbon fiber. Carbon does not absorb moisture or stretch over time, helping the tire maintain its original dimensions and consistent interface with the rim throughout its service life.

Tubeless Performance
The RCG-3 is designed specifically for tubeless gravel use, allowing riders to take advantage of lower pressures, increased air volume and sealant-based puncture protection.

Why We Like It

• XC mountain bike inspired construction optimized for modern gravel
• High-volume 120 TPI Race Casing
• SealSkin puncture protection
• Pulsar compound balances speed, grip and durability
• Progressive tread increases traction toward the shoulders
• Tightly spaced center knobs promote efficient rolling
• Designed for confident cornering on loose and unpredictable surfaces
• Tuned for slightly higher pressures than the RCG-1
• Carbon BeadLock carbon fiber bead resists stretch and moisture absorption
• Designed to maintain consistent tire dimensions over time
• Tubeless Ready
• Available in 700 x 45c, 700 x 50c and 700 x 55c