THINGS TO CONSIDER...

1 SIZE

We’re fans of fatter rubber, even in summer, but not all tyres are available in larger volume versions and don’t fit in all race bikes. We’ve concentrated on 25mm options but tested fatties where available and included the results in our reviews.

2 CARCASS

Tyre construction is the basis of rolling characteristics and traditionally described in TPI (Threads Per Inch) with higher numbers indicating a finer, suppler carcass. Tubelessready tech and protection layers add complexity.

3 PROTECTION

Pretty much every tyre now comes with some sort of protective layer to stop pointy things ruining your ride. How effective they are, how far they extend around the tyre and how much they affect the ride quality vary dramatically.

4 TUBELESS

Replacing an inner tube that can get trapped and burst between rim and road or skewered with thorns with liquid sealant to plug holes, means you’re improving survivability. Ride feel can also be improved but you need dedicated tubeless-ready tyres and rims for a safe setup.

5 TREAD

This test was titled “summer slicks”, but most of these tyres aren’t actually slicks. It’s impossible to separate the effects of tread (slotted to ‘squeeze away’ rain, or file tread for ‘extra grip’) versus compound in testing, but we know it’s a big psychological deal for some riders.

6 COMPOUND

Rubber recipes are the fastest changing element of tyre design, with everything from graphene particles to self-aligning silicates in the mix. Single, double and triple compound arrangements are all competing to provide the best combination of grip, speed and durability.