Continental Unisex Contact Speed Tyre

Product Information

The other set of figures you may see is ETRTO sizing like this 28-622. The first number here is tyre width while the second number relates to wheel diameter.

These feature 180tpi casings and skin wall sidewalls, which give a clear indication of their ride persona, straight off. That micro diamond tread pattern is also borrowed from the German marques’ Competition World Tour Tubular. Skin walls are supple and, in this instance, contributes to the aren’t the default for commuting, since they are more prone to damage than gum walls. A reflective sidewall is another small but welcome touch. In light of this and their spec, I wasn't surprised to discover the 42mm offerings weighed 998g apiece – not outlandish by genre standards, but still heavier than the seriously heavy duty 26x2in models presently adorning my Univega. All three required a drop of superglue to plug the holes. A reminder of some vulnerability but comparable with other soft compound tyres I’ve run long term and in similar contexts. Wear has been moderate. Some suggested they’ve had 3,500 from a rear, 5000 up front. 2,500 Spring/Summer miles, wear is localised-along the centre-strip-where I’d expect, given their profile. There’s been no issue with cuts, or similar vulnerability to date and I’ve not been overly vigilant when it comes to brushing casings down, either. Wider tyres can be run at lower pressures than narrower tyres without increasing the risk of punctures. This can make them more comfortable and gives you more grip, useful if you are an all-weather cyclist.

Their big sections deliver a magic carpet ride quality, the sort that smooths out washboard tarmac and unavoidable/unexpected bigger bumps. Pushed along wet 1in7s at 30mph, they’ve never once lost their bite, or missed a beat, even when morale and concentration have been flagging. Manhole covers and similar ironworks call for a bit of caution, especially when the rains break after a prolonged dry spell but negotiated sensibly, I’ve not had any unwelcome surprises. Its tread cap is thin, so don’t expect huge mileage, but this and the supple 180tpi carcass keep weight down and allow the tyre to perform well on a variety of surfaces. Tubeless tyres provide many benefits, decreasing weight, decreasing rolling resistance and increasing resistance to punctures as they can self-seal.

Schwalbe's Marathon Supremes have served me and said tubby tourer phenomenally well for several years, though they have a much higher list price. Summary Price, as you would imagine, is the most popular reason for someone buying one product over another. It is the single most important factor in choosing the majority of products we buy. The same goes for Tyres. You want to leave at least 4mm clearance between your frame and tyres to prevent rub and allow for mud clearance.A thinner tread and a lighter, more supple carcass save weight. A 700×37C tyre is heavier than a smaller diameter 650×37B but, as a guide, expect a weight of well under 500g for either size. Puncture protection We then wanted to get a bit more specific and only look at Continental products that are listed in the Tyres category. I've been happy enough letting rip at 35mph along local 1-in-4s, and pushing them hard into corners. Wet manhole covers/similar ironworks call for a bit of common sense, but railway crossings, cattle grids and so on haven't taxed them – or spooked me. One is the traditional size like 700x28c or 27.5x2.2. The first figure is the tyre diameter(size). The second is tyre width. Note: road bike sizes are in mm, MTB sizes are in inches. As we said in the pricing part of the review, brand is a really important consideration, but especially so when looking to buy Tyres. But as you’re probably already aware, you’re on to a great choice if you do go with Continental, as they’re a fantastic brand, making amazing products.