On pure ride and value alone, these would rate at least 4.5 stars but I'm taking 1.5 off for the difficulty in installation. Without a doubt, these are the most difficult tires to mount I've ever used. I broke 2 tire levers trying to get them on and all the usual tricks like soapy water failed. I ended up paying my LBS to get it done--since I had to get new levers anyway. Plus, I'm at the age where sometimes you just want to throw money at a problem to make it go away :) Gratifyingly, the mechanic told me he had a rough time with them as well so I don't feel quite so dumb now.
But once on, they're pretty nice--soaks up bumps really well. I can't speak to how well they'll handle real gravel--got them for my regular commuter bike--but so far, the grip and handling seem good. I've just got my fingers crossed I can get by without having to take them off any time soon.
Tire mounted easily, and held maximum air for more than a week while I was out of town. The 40 measures 39 on a 24 ID hooked rim. I added 2 ounces of Stans, and tire has held up perfectly for more than a dozen rides. It may be the Chinese version, but it rolls great and handles powder, hard pack, fine gravel, and very lumpy caliche gravel exceptionally well. This tire won't set any land speed records, but it will get you where you're going without failure. Exceptional value when bought on sale!
