News + Trends
Czech tyre manufacturer Zleen takes a radical approach
by Patrick Bardelli
Zleen Wolf Pro Tubeless: the bicycle tyre with top value for money
25/9/2025
Translation: machine translated
Pictures: Patrick Bardelli
Do you know the Czech bicycle tyre manufacturer Zleen? No? It's high time that changed. I have tested the brand's premium gravel tyre and can only recommend it.
This summer, I parted with my beloved Schwalbe G-One gravel tyres with a heavy heart and embarked on a new adventure. It felt a bit like the first date after a long-term relationship. Somehow strange and unfamiliar, but with a pinch of tingling anticipation. The Czech brand Zleen was made palatable to me by its Swiss representative: specifically the Wolf Pro tubeless gravel tyre.
Shortly afterwards, I met the brand's Marketing Manager at Eurobike in Frankfurt am Main. A second date, so to speak, where you get to know each other a little better. I've linked my impressions again here:
From the third date onwards, it's all happening
Then came the third date and that inevitably led to action. In my case, it was countless rides on tarmac, forest and gravel paths and the odd easy trail over the last twelve weeks. Sometimes in dry, sometimes in damp or even completely wet weather.
In the meantime, the initial scepticism towards the new tyre has given way to the realisation that it can be quite rewarding to try something new. The Wolf Pro Tubeless impresses me with its various attractions.
There is the 120 TPI Skinwall racing carcass of the Wolf Pro, compared to 60 TPI for the «standard» Wolf. This value indicates the density of the fabric. TPI stands for «Threads per Inch» or threads per inch. In simple terms, it can be said that the more tightly woven the carcass, the higher the quality of the tyre. The finer the carcass, the lower the rolling resistance and the better the riding characteristics.
Three rows of fine centreline tread blocks are designed to further reduce rolling resistance and provide a smooth ride on gravel and paved roads. The medium-high shoulder knobs offer reliable cornering grip. Added to this is a silica race tyre compound. The 40 millimetre wide tyre weighs in at 525 grammes, with a maximum load weight of 125 kilograms.
The most important features summarised
- dense centre rib tread for improved grip and short braking distance
- Optimised silica race rubber compound for lower rolling resistance
- 120 TPI skinwall construction for maximum steering precision and power transmission
- Resistant bead-to-bead puncture protection for increased safety
- lightweight, foldable tyre bead made from modern polyamide fibres for good tubeless performance
Source: Zleen
Officially, the tyre was designed for dry conditions, according to the manufacturer. However, as mentioned above, I have also ridden the Wolf Pro tyre in the rain a few times. Even in slippery conditions, the tyre impresses with low rolling resistance, very smooth running and good grip.
And the best for last: the outstanding value for money. A comparable product from Schwalbe, for example, costs a lot more.
In a nutshell
Wolf Pro Tubeless from Zleen: more than just a summer romance
The Wolf Pro Tubeless from Zleen has come to stay. One summer's romance turned into a permanent relationship. And I don't want to say anything against Schwalbe's products. The tyres from the German manufacturer that I've had on my bike so far have been flawless.
The new tyres from the Czechs simply convince me even more with their top value for money. Especially in combination with the Tire Noodle from Pepis and the Race Gravelbike from Bixs.
Pro
- top value for money
- Racing carcass
- Low rolling resistance
- Very smooth running
- Good grip, even in wet conditions
Header image: Patrick Bardelli
Patrick Bardelli
Senior Editor
Patrick.Bardelli@digitecgalaxus.chFrom radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.
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