CHALLENGE GETAWAY SCHWALBE G ONE R
£83 £70
They say
A gravel-specific handmade 700x40mm tyre built with a fast-rolling centre for straightline control and speed, with more aggressive shoulder knobs for controlled cornering in loose conditions. A doublelayer 260 TPI casing provides durability and stability, plus there’s a puncture prevention strip. Aramid fibre folding beads ensure a precise fit on performance clincher wheels, while an anti-chafing strip along the casing at the bead gives extra protection.
Getting going
The 465g (per tyre) Challenge lived up to its name when it came to fitting. Despite trying several different wheels to check it wasn’t a rim-related issue, I found it impossible to fit until supplied with the brand’s own mounting tool. An extra £15 does seem extravagant, but it does work with all tyres and comes with a good reputation for use with other tyres that are difficult to seat. I used Challenge tyre sealant, but after first inflation the tyres went down overnight, needing a second pressure check before staying up. And they do still need a quick topup between rides.
Hitting the gravel
I’ve been running 28psi on the back, 26psi on the front and riding hardpacked autumn trails with a mix of smooth and looser surfaces. Straightline comfort of this tyre is superb; there’s an appreciable cushion of air with a supple ride feel that absorbs surface chatter. Cornering is another matter, though, as I found the Getaway lacking in confidence on both turns and climbing out of the saddle, which playing with pressures didn’t solve.
They say
A 700x40mm tyre that’s been designed to be versatile across light terrain, gravel and tarmac. Built to deliver a combination of low rolling resistance, climbing traction and smooth riding, with angled side lugs for best cornering grip. The Super Race carcass additionally provides high impact protection for puncture resistance.
Getting going
The 482g (per tyre) G-ONE was tested on a Campagnolo Shamal C21 DB 2WF XDR wheelset, the same wheels used in the Challenge Getaway trial. Fitting is easy and the tyres popped in place by hand. I used the same Challenge sealant, again for a consistent test. The tyres went up first time and maintain pressure well, even over the course of a few rides.
Hitting the gravel
Test rides were conducted on the same terrain with a mix of surfaces and enough sketchy corners to test the limits. The fine tread pattern on this tyre is denser and more closely spaced – it doesn’t really have a defined shoulder, with the result that cornering feels more secure, with a solid grip. There isn’t quite the same ‘air cushion’ effect as the Getaway but the straight-line speed and comfort are still excellent. Combined with more confidence-inspiring cornering, it means the G-ONE hits that sweet spot mix of speed, comfort and handling. Both tyres have turned in a good bombproof performance in terms of puncture resistance. This is the slightly heavier tyre, but not so much as to be noticeable when riding.