The WORLD'S FASTEST tyres tested in the Wind-Tunnel
Tyre Overview / Key Considerations
When selecting the most suitable tyres for your next race, it's important to take several key factors into account.
*Credit - Bicycle Rolling Resistance
Continental Aero 111 (29mm Tubeless)
The tread design is entirely new, and it comes with 48 precision-formed, vortex-generating cavities that create controlled turbulence and ensure prolonged airflow attachment to the rim. According to Continental, this reduces aerodynamic drag and improves crosswind stability.
Although this tyre performs well aerodynamically, it excels at lower speeds and high yaw angles, and on the right wheel, harnesses a "sail effect" with increased stability. The sail effect can work to a rider's advantage, providing additional thrust in situations where other tires might stall.
Continental GP5000 S TR TT (28mm Tubeless-Ready)
The GP5000S TR TT is Continental's high-performance tubeless-ready tyre, optimised for time trials, triathlons, and aerodynamic efficiency. Combining the legendary grip and low rolling resistance of the GP5000 series with TT-specific enhancements, it's engineered for speed, stability, and reduced drag.
Vittoria Corsa Pro Speed (28mm Tubeless-Ready)
The Corsa Pro Speed tyre is the result of extensive research and development conducted by Vittoria's team of experts, through three seasons of racing analysis. With a strong commitment to providing racers with the best possible products, Vittoria has designed a tire that maximises speed, grip, and control in time trial and triathlon use.
Featuring an advanced Graphene + Silica compound specifically designed to provide unparalleled efficiency, while returning a very high level of grip on both dry and wet surfaces, Corsa Pro Speed ensures faster times and a smoother ride. By seamlessly tapering the tread into the sidewall, the Corsa PRO Speed construction combines the Graphene + Silica compound, ultra-supple cotton casing, and updated tread pattern, all electrically cured to minimise rolling resistance.
The circumferential grooves distribution on the tread has been optimised compared to Corsa Speed, with a wider centre slick area and closer grooves, which provide suppleness and cornering edges. Corsa PRO Speed Corespun 320 TPI cotton casing - Vittoria’s finest – is extremely lightweight and guarantees ultimate suppleness, speed, and enhanced cornering grip.
Our Thoughts & Use Case Recommendations
We’ve tested, scanned, ridden and analysed a range of tyre brands and models throughout our wheel development. Narrowing the selection and refining our design for the Tempus wheels around the three high-performance models featured. All of these options instil confidence in dry conditions with the compound of continental tyres trumping wet-weather performance. Drawing on our data and testing, we've outlined the following recommendations for specific race applications.
For short-course triathlon and time trials (when conditions are still), the Vittoria Corsa Pro Speed (28mm) will be the fastest option. Its excellent aerodynamic performance coupled with the low CRR values will (in most cases) prove to be the most efficient option. That said, in high winds or on gusty courses, the stability of the Continental Aero 111 (29mm) can be a welcome asset, helping you maintain your position while still benefiting from the enhanced sail effect.
While the new Vittoria Corsa Pro Speed offers improved robustness over its predecessor, however the added puncture protection of the Continental Aero 111 and GP5000s TR makes it a stronger choice for long-course triathlons or Ironman bike legs, reducing the risk of flats. The logic being, the theoretical seconds lost in terms of CRR, could potentially be minutes should a puncture occur and require a plug or repair.
Ending Thoughts
We hope the above information gives you some guidance in regards tyre choice for your time trial or triathalon, highlighting some key points and features. Should you want to discuss further your application, the tyres best suited along with pressures and race protocols, we’re always happy to chat; Please drop us an email at team@scribecycling.com and we can arrange a call.
