ROAD BIKE TIRE COMPARISON: WHICH MODEL TO CHOOSE?

Introduction

Choosing the right road bike tires is essential for improving performance, comfort and safety. A good tire reduces rolling resistance, optimizes grip and reduces the risk of punctures. But with so many different models to choose from, it can be hard to find your way around. That’s why we’ve put together this road bike tire comparison to help you make the best choice.

Why choose the right road bike tires?

Tires play a key role in the transmission of power and the bike’s grip on the road. A quality tire contributes to a smoother, safer ride. What’s more, some models offer greater resistance to punctures, reducing the risk of incidents.

That’s why it’s important to consider several criteria before you buy. Not only does the type of tire influence performance, but the choice of materials and on-board technology also has an impact. To guide you, here’s our detailed road bike tire comparison.

structure of a continental gp5000 road bike tire

Criteria for selecting the best tires

In order to compare the best tires on the market, we have taken several factors into account:

Rolling resistance: a better-performing tire requires less effort to move forward.
Carcass: the number of threads per inch (TPI) is the indicator: the higher it is, the better the tire’s quality.
Grip: essential, especially in bends and on wet roads.
Weight: the lighter the tire, the more responsive the bike.
Durability: a good compromise between performance and longevity.
Budget: top-of-the-range road bike tire models offer advanced technologies, but price differences exist between brands.

By taking these criteria into account, you can choose the model that best suits your needs.

Comparison table of the best tubeless tires for road bikes

Specs/Model	Continental GP5000	Vittoria N.EXT	Pirelli P-Zero Race	Schwalbe Pro One	Michelin Power Cup
Weight (28mm)	239g	217g	236g	273g	240g
Carcass (TPI)	330	100	120	127	360
ETRTO (28mm)	28-622	28-622	28-622	28-622	28-622
Puncture score	49	51	55	48	50
Durability	Good	Good	Good	Medium	Good
Road feel	Good	Medium	Good	Medium	Good
Rolling resistance	Excellent	Medium	Good	Medium	Excellent
Grip on wet roads	67	73	60	63	74
Price (MSRP)	74,95€	59,95€	75€	64,90€	58,95€

Find all the tire models tested on the bicycle rolling resistance website.

Comparative table of the best tubeless road bike tires

Specs/Model	Continental GP5000 S TR	Vittoria Corsa Pro TLR	Pirelli P-Zero Race RS TLR	Schwalbe Pro One TLE	Michelin Power Cup TLR
Weight (28mm)	280g	273g	294g	279g	283g
Carcass (TPI)	220	320	120	127	480
ETRTO (28mm)	28-622	28-622	28-622	28-622	28-622
Puncture score	36	46	43	43	45
Durability	Good	Medium	Good	Medium	Good
Road feel	Good	Excellent	Good	Medium	Excellent
Rolling resistance	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent
Grip on wet roads	70	74	79	69	74
Hookless compatible	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Price (MSRP)	87,95€	94,95€	90,00€	74,90€	77,95€

How to choose the right tire?

First, it’s essential to identify your riding style. A competitive cyclist will not have the same needs as a leisure cyclist. Secondly, your riding conditions must be taken into account. For example, if you often ride in the rain, choose a model with excellent grip.
You also need to consider your budget. Although top-of-the-range tires offer superior performance, some more affordable models are still very good performers. Last but not least, check the compatibility with your wheels(read more on this subject). A poorly-matched tire can impair your bike’s performance.

Conclusion: which road bike tire to choose in 2025?

Depending on your practice and your expectations, there are several options open to you:

Performance and speed: opt for Grand Prix 5000 S TR or Michelin Power Cup TLR.
Best value for money: go for the Michelin Power Cup.
Grip in the rain: Pirelli P-Zero Race RS TLR is an excellent choice.

This road bike tire comparison guides you to the models best suited to your use. For optimum performance, pair them with a quality pair of carbon wheels.

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