Test riding report

Tech Talk
Laboratory + Test Ride
Top-end Tire Showdown
Text & Photos: Editorial Dept.
I
n an effort to combine reliable quantitative figures with
insightful qualitative testing,
Wheel Giant periodical Cycling
Update has teamed up with the
Cycling & Health Tech Industry
R&D Center (CHC) to perform
laboratory testing on five topflight MTB tires and ten competition road bike tires. Professional riders were also employed
to try out the tires, for truly
comprehensive testing that will
help manufacturers perfect product quality and performance.
For comparative analysis,
five representative all-mountain
tires were selected. Test items
included weight, comfort, puncture resistance, and riding performance. In contrast, test items for
the ten selected road tires included geometric measurement, traction, shock absorbance, and riding performance. Testing for both
relied on laboratory equipment
and actual riding by cyclists.
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MTB Tires
Laboratory measurements
Tech Talk
Static testing of MTB tires was performed using the CHC laboratory’s high-precision multi-purpose
material testing machine (A1) and impact testing machine (D4). Test items included tire weight, tire shock
absorbance, lateral resistance, and puncture resistance. Different testing methods were used for each item; the
following testing guidelines were upheld:
1. Tire weight testing
3. Tire shock absorbance testing
The test tire was
placed on an electronic
scale with an accuracy of
+/-1g, measurement was
performed, and the displayed value was recorded.
Using a fixed tire pressure, a wheel was fastened using appropriate clamps, a selected heavy
object was allowed to fall on the tire from a fixed
height, and the maximum acceleration produced
by the impacting body was recorded. The tire pressure was set at 50psi in this experiment, and a flat
plate weighing 25kg was dropped from a height of
100mm to test the tire’s shock absorbance.
2. Tire lateral resistance testing
Using a fixed tire pressure, a wheel was fastened using appropriate clamps, and pressure was
applied to the tire surface through the use of a fixed
inclined surface. The maximum resistance of the tire
on the inclined surface was recorded while moving
the tire a certain distance from the point at which the
inclined surface contacted the tire. The tire pressure
was set at 50psi in this experiment, and pressure was
applied to the tire surface with the inclined surface
at an angle of 30° from the vertical. The inclined
surface was moved 10mm from the point of contact
with the tire, and the maximum resistance generated
by the inclined surface was recorded.
◄ During static testing
of lateral resistance, an
inclined surface with an
angle of 30° from the
vertical was used to apply
pressure to the tire surface.
When the tire was moved
10mm, the maximum
resistance generated by the
inclined surface on the tire
was recorded.
▲Shock absorbance testing involved dropping a flat plate weighing 25kg
from a height of 100mm on tires. The waveforms resulting from the tires'
shock absorbance were then computer-recorded. In order to eliminate the
shock absorbing effect of the bicycle frame and other parts, and thereby
achieve more precise results, further measurements were performed with
no frame.
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Tech Talk
◄A conical impact head with
a weight of 4.5kg and a contact
point 3mm in diameter was
repeatedly dropped on the tires.
The impact process continued
until each inner tube was
punctured, and the height was
then recorded.
4. Tire puncture resistance testing
Using a fixed tire pressure, a wheel was fastened using appropriate clamps, and a conical impact head with a fixed weight was dropped on the
tire from incrementally increasing heights. After
each impact resulting in no damage to the inner
tube, the impact point was changed. Impacts were
continued until the inner tube was punctured, and
the height was then recorded. The tire pressure was
set at 50psi for this experiment, and the conical impact head had a weight of 4.5kg and a contact point
3mm in diameter. The impact height was increased
in increments of 10mm.
Dynamic testing chiefly consisted of obtaining cyclists’ impressions when riding off road on
a forest trail, and also measuring the straight-line
braking distance when cyclists stopped at the same
point from a speed of 30km/h.
Cycling & Health Tech Industry R&D Center(CHC)
The non-profit Cycling & Health Tech Industry R&D Center
was established in June 1992. Its mission is to advance research
and development of bicycle-related technology, including but
not limited to power bicycles, wheelchairs, scooters, and fitness
equipment. CHC utilizes internationally recognized laboratory
equipment and tests by international standards. CHC, a trusted third
party, is the only testing center specializing in bicycle products.
Test riding report
The world-renowned Continental Speed King 2.3
Continental Speed King laboratory report
Item
Adept at long-distance riding on mountain paths, the Continental Speed King features a sparse pattern of widely-spaced
tread blocks, making it an excellent match for muddy terrain. It
is also very comfortable during long-distance riding, and its reinforced tread blocks have a height of 4mm - well-suited to downhill riding. While some vibration was experienced while riding,
this is a fine tire for cyclists seeking a sense of “feel.”
Weight
Shock absorbance
Lateral resistance
Value
590g
13.42G
32kg
Puncture resistance
90mm
Straight-line braking distance
9.7m
Test riding report
Due to their light weight, Continental Speed King tires significantly reduced the effort of uphill riding. Although only two
rows of tread contacted the ground during cornering, the tires
displayed excellent dynamic traction, and the low-density tread
block pattern proved extraction suitable for muddy areas. Mud
had little tendency to stick to the tires, and could be washed off
easily. In summary, the Continental Speed King really shows its
mettle when it’s taken off-road for serious cross country riding.
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▲Although
the Continental Speed
King has a low-density tread pattern, it
provides excellent traction, and is wellsuited to long-distance circuit riding.
▲Continental Speed
King's tread pattern.
Tech Talk
Taiwan Excellence, globally-bound— The Kenda K1070
Kenda K1070 laboratory report
The second-generation signature H-Factor K1070, developed by
Kenda in collaboration with legendary rider Hans Rey, has a tread design consisting of H-shaped elements, and also features a reinforced
shoulder. Hans Rey is a world-class All Mountain and Freeriding
competitor; the K1070 was designed under his supervision as an AllMountain tire. In order to stand up to tough acrobatic maneuvers, the
rubber formulation has a high density and great structural strength.
Although this slightly increases the weight, it also provides riders
with greater safety and durability.
Weight
Item
Value
879g
Shock absorbance
14.59G
Lateral resistance
49kg
Puncture resistance
130mm
Straight-line braking distance
9.7m
Test riding report
The Kenda K1070 is suitable for curves and hard surfaces, and
offers good control. The tread pattern and arrangement shields the rider from bumps and jolts, and the large contact area between tire and
ground ensures a relatively short braking distance. On the other hand,
the tire is relatively heavy, and straight-line acceleration is as quick as
other tires. In general, the design and riding feel of these tires make
them most suitable for Freeride and Downhill tires.
▲Kenda K1070 tires have a
large area of contact with the
ground, which ensures short
braking distance.
▲Kenda K1070 tires were
designed by legendary
rider Hans Rey, and feature
H-shaped tread elements.
Riding into the woods, famed worldwide—The Maxxis Ignitor
Maxxis Ignitor laboratory report
The Maxxis Ignitor tire is specially designed for pro riders. The
tread pattern emphasizes appropriate spacing, which can reduce rolling resistance during straight-line motion. A tread pattern consisting
of pentagonal blocks along the shoulder ensures good cornering in all
kinds of terrain. The tire also offers superb traction on soil of intermediate hardness.
Weight
Test riding report
Item
Value
749g
Shock absorbance
14.94G
Lateral resistance
48kg
Puncture resistance
90mm
Straight-line braking distance
10.2m
◄The Maxxis Ignitor's tread pattern.
Designed especially for pro cyclists, Maxxis’ Ignitor tires feature a high-density tread block pattern offering high sensitivity, while
also providing sufficient lateral traction for precise cornering. The
pentagonal blocks along the shoulder also add to cornering performance. On the down side, these tires don’t possess the mud-shedding
ability to satisfy riders who are fond of tackling muddy trails. In summary, the Ignitor combines the advantages of XC tires and All Mountain tires, and provides superlative performance in many compatible
types of terrain.
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▲The high-density tread blocks on Maxxis
Ignitor tires ensure excellent control.
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Tech Talk
Running rampant on five continents—
The Michelin WildGrip’R
Michelin’s WildGrip’R tires are designed to be
used in various types of terrain. In order to enhance
steering and control, reinforced tread coats the tire
shoulders. In addition, the hollow tread blocks on the
face of the tires increase durability and coefficient of
friction, which serves to protect the tires during braking.
Michelin WildGrip'R laboratory report
Item
Weight
Value
850g
Shock absorbance
14.54 G
Lateral resistance
43kg
Puncture resistance
220mm
Straight-line braking distance
8.1m
Test riding report
The puncture-resistance of Michelin’s
WildGrip ’ R is extremely high, for enhanced rider
safety. The hollow tread block design yields outstanding straight-line braking. When riding downhill in
steep terrain, the Michelin WildGrip’R is such a stand
out performer, it could almost be deemed a downhill
tire.
▲The hollow tread blocks on Michelin's WildGrip'R
tires are a unique feature.
German technology: a wise choice—
Schwalbe’s Rocket Ron
Schwalbe’s Rocket Ron tires guarantee a thrilling experience when chasing the wind on a forest trail.
The body of these lightweight tires features a special
rubber formulation, and the U-shaped tread blocks
provide impressive mud-clearance. While Rocket Ron
tires allow riders to strike an optimal balance between
speed and trail handling, puncture-resistance and durability are not defining characteristics.
▲The reinforced
tread blocks on
the shoulders of
WildGrip'R tires
ensure effective
steering
under
appropriate
conditions.
Schwalbe Rocket Ron laboratory report
Item
Weight
Value
519g
Shock absorbance
15.00 G
Lateral resistance
44kg
Puncture resistance
Straight-line braking distance
120mm
8.7m
Test riding report
The front tires are designed to emphasize steering, while the back wheels emphasize grip. The tires
are suitable for both ordinary roads and muddy trails.
Thanks to the outstanding tread pattern, as many as
three rows of tread blocks can grip the ground when
cornering. As a result, riders feel a great sense of
stability. The tires’ light weight enables quick acceleration, and they are especially suitable for riding on
cross-country courses.
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▲Thanks to outstanding design, Schwalbe's Rocket Ron
tires offer superb stability and cornering performance.
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▲Tread design of
Schwalbe Rocket
Ron tires.
Tech Talk
Laboratory measurements
Road Tires
1. Single tire traction testing
3. Tire shock absorbance testing
To measure tire traction, the test facility used a
fixed braking force of 120N, which is approximately
12.23 kgf. The tires were first mounted on appropriate
wheels (Novatec X-Treme J233 wheels were used in this
test). Then, in accordance with European Union testing
standards, the wheels were mechanically-driven along the
ground at a constant speed of 12.5km/H. The bicycle and
load had a weight of 100kg. The braking force generated
by the brakes was recorded.
This test sought to measure the direct
response of the tires on the road. The tires
were mounted on appropriate wheels (Novatec X-Treme J233 wheels were used in
this test), the wheels were fastened using
appropriate clamps, and balance weights
weighing 35kg and able to move vertically
were mounted directly over the wheel axles.
The wheels were vibrated at a rate of 1G and
a frequency of 10Hz, and the acceleration at
the end of the balance weight was recorded.
When the vibrating balance weight struck the
tires, the greater the acceleration, the better
the “theoretical” road feel. Because this test
simulated a level surface, the resulting data is
for level riding, and does not encompass riding under rocky or bumpy road conditions.
◄The European Union's
traction testing standards
help riders recognize tire
quality.
2. Tire geometry measurements
Tires were weighed on an electronic scale with an
accuracy of +/-1g, and the displayed values were recorded. The tires were then mounted on appropriate wheels
(Novatec X-Treme J233 wheels were used in this test),
and the tires were inflated to a fixed pressure (115psi in
this test). The tires’ widths and heights (distance from
highest point on rim to the tire face) were measured.
◄The tires were weighed
on an electronic scale with
an accuracy of +/-1g before
road trials.
▲The tires were struck by an accelerating weight to measure their
shock absorbance.
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Tech Talk
Test riding report
Continental Grand Prix 4000
Continental Grand Prix 4000 laboratory report
In order to boost handling stability and reduce rolling
resistance, Continental Grand Prix 4000 color tires are made
from newly-developed raw materials, and the rubber has an
anti-tear formulation. As a result, these tires offer greater
lifetime mileage. An anti-puncture protective layer in the
tires is made from VectranTM liquid crystal fibers, which
were developed by the aerospace industry and used in vehicle air bags. According to the test riders, although Continental Grand Prix 4000 tires can only be inflated to 120psi,
they offer smooth, nimble performance on flat roads, and
have characteristics similar to those of tube tires. The tread
on the shoulders facilitates extremely
smooth cornering. The tires ’
few shortcomings included
difficult mounting and a
tendency to slip in wet
weather.
Geometry
Hutchinson Fusion 3
Hutchinson Fusion 3 laboratory report
Hutchinson Fusion 3 tires are designed for all-weather, high-intensity training and competition riding. The tires
are made from three types of compounds: hard rubber enhances abrasion resistance while reducing rolling resistance;
soft rubber protects rider safety during acceleration; and
ultra-soft rubber is used in the
shoulders. According to the test
riders, the Hutchinson Fusion
3’s biggest advantages include
excellent road feel and shock
absorbing qualities, as well
as fine cornering stability and
good control in wet conditions.
The only complaints were loss
of speed when sprinting standing up and a time-consuming
mounting process.
Geometry
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BMU 2011 Spring
Item
Value
22.83mm (w) x 19.90mm (h)
Weight
215g
Traction
158.56N
Shock absorbance
2.87G
Size: 700×23C
Tire pressure: Min: 110 psi, Max: 120 psi
Item
Value
19.8mm × 18.60mm
Weight
194g
Traction
197.84N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.68G
Size: 700×23C
Tire pressure: Min: 115psi, Max: 125psi
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Tech Talk
Innova Pro Smoothie
Innova Pro Smoothie laboratory report
Innova Pro Smoothie tires are intended specifically
for racing bikes, and can be folded for convenient carrying.
This five-grip tire breaks from the three-grip tire technology
of the past, and provides greater quality. The test riders expressed that while the tire is highly abrasion resistant, made
of soft material, and quite suitable for long distance riding,
it gives the bike an unsteady feeling and the rocking coefficient of friction is high. In addition, there is a “quicksand”
feeling when accelerating. For these reasons, Pro Smoothie tires are not recommended for competitive riding.
Geometry
Kenda Kaliente
Kenda Kaliente laboratory report
Item
22.76mm x 20.23mm
Weight
282g
Traction
191.23N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.85G
Size: 700×23C
Tire pressure: Min: 115psi, Max: 125psi
Item
The Kenda Kaliente was originally designed as a competition-grade racing bike tire, but has been downgraded
to training tire following the introduction of the December
Pro tire. The Kaliente boasts a low-rolling resistance rubber
formulation for increased speed. The diamond tread design
on the shoulders boosts cornering stability. According to
the test riders, the Kenda Kaliente
is highly puncture resistant
and can be expected to provide high riding mileage.
Feedback was very good
for riding out of the
saddle, but the tires often gave a bouncy feel.
Value
Geometry
Value
22.35mm x 20.40mm
Weight
208g
Traction
203.52N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.84G
Size: 700×23C
Tire pressure: Min: 100psi, Max: 125psi
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Tech Talk
Maxxis Courchevel M2013C
Maxxis Courchevel M2013C laboratory report
The Courchevel M2013C is an important member
of Maxxis’ road bike tire lineup. The result of constantly
improving rubber sleeve and triple composite technology,
the M2013C offers longer lifetime mileage. According to
the test riders, the Maxxis Courchevel M2013C provides
excellent feedback during cornering and good shock observing qualities. It also performs well when
the rider is rocking the bike while out
of the saddle, and is easy to mount
and remove. However, the tires
displayed uncertain feedback
and a bit of stickiness during
acceleration and pedaling.
Geometry
Michelin Pro3 Race
Michelin Pro3 Race laboratory report
Michelin Pro Race tires were used by the winner of
the 1997 Paris-Roubaix race. The Pro3 Race is a third-generation tire. Applying its Moto GP experience, Michelin has
used a dual composite compound with good grip on both
sides of the center of the tread, which reduces the chance of
puncture. The test riders recommended that these tires not
be inflated to too high a pressure, but noted that the tires do
not feel excessively soft, and considered them quite comfortable on long rides. In addition, the tires were considered
average with regard to acceleration, but better than
average when it comes to cornering stability.
As a result, the tires were deemed suitable
for long distances over varying road conditions.
Geometry
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Item
Value
23.47mm x 21.50mm
Weight
232g
Traction
209.02N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.79G
Size: 700 x 23C
Tire pressure: Min: None, Max: 125psi
Item
Value
21.13mm x 19.00mm
Weight
205g
Traction
209.26N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.60G
Size: 700 x 23C
Tire pressure: Min: 87psi, Max: 116psi
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Tech Talk
Schwalbe Ultremo R.1
Schwalbe Ultremo R.1 laboratory report
The Schwalbe Ultremo R.1 is a first-rate road tire.
The tire surface employs a three-layer nanometer composite gel, which is distributed at different locations. Together
with a fiber bullet-proof fabric developed in conjunction
with an American partner, the material combines softness
with puncture resistance. According to the test riders, the
Schwalbe Ultremo R.1 provides a high level of comfort
and cushions jolts. The thin side walls provide good stability during cornering and on straightaways, and the tires are
very well-suited to long-distance riding. In this case, however, long-distance speed comes at the expense of sprinting
speed.
Geometry
Specialized S-Works Turbo
Specialized S-Works Turbo laboratory report
The dual-density Specialized S-Works Turbo is built
on a 220-count carcass. In the opinion of the test riders, the
tire displays good rolling qualities, high-speed
cornering is reliable, and agility when the cyclist
is riding out of the saddle almost equals that of
a tube tire. The tire also has a shock absorbing
bounce when small stones are encountered.
The tire is easy to mount and remove, and
doesn’t require the use of tire levers. On
the other hand, the riders expressed that the
Specialized S-Works Turbo is prone to slipping under wet conditions, and is not recommended for rainy days. They suggested
that the tire is probably not intended for
wet conditions, and its functionality is
therefore limited.
Geometry
Item
Value
22.80mm x 20.80mm
Weight
181g
Traction
155.30N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.70G
Size: 700 x 23C
Tire pressure: Min: 85psi, Max: 145psi
Item
Value
20.66mm X 19.02mm
Weight
189g
Traction
156.05N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.69G
Size: 700 x 23C
Tire pressure: Min: 115psi, Max: 125psi
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Tech Talk
Tufo Giro Twix
Maxxis Courchevel M2013C laboratory report
The high-pressure Tufo Giro Twix road bike tire impressed riders with its speed in races and pursuits. Intended
for open rim wheels, these tires were developed to allow
riders who prefer open rims to enjoy the sense of speed
provided by high-pressure tubular tires. The tires employ
an active silicon dioxide composite process to reduce wear
during use. According to the test riders, since there is only
a small area of contact with the road, the tires present very
low rolling resistance at high speeds. They are only available in size 21C, but they feel like 23C tires, though they
do seem heavier when accelerating. These tires are most
appropriate for strong riders. Since
mounting is difficult, it is recommended that they be
mounted at a bike
shop, or appropriate equipment be
obtained.
Geometry
Vittoria Corsa Evo OPEN CX
Vittoria Corsa Evo OPEN CX laboratory report
The Vittoria Corsa Evo OPEN CX is a top-of-theline handmade open tire. The tire surface features a parallel
radiating drainage tread. The silicon dioxide formulation
used for the tire’s inner walls reduces resistance and provides good traction even in wet conditions. The test riders
expressed that the rubber in Vittoria Corsa Evo OPEN CX
tires is not very hard, and the side walls are thin, for easy
mounting and removal. Cornering is stable, and the tires
are especially effective at downhill cornering. Not much
strength is required when riding on
flat roads, but improvements
could be made with regard to acceleration.
Geometry
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Item
Value
21.98mm x 18.65mm
Weight
342g
Traction
217.60N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.86G
Size: 700 x 21C
Tire pressure: Min: 115psi, Max: 220psi
Item
Value
22.80mm x 20.80mm
Weight
212g
Traction
157.91N (Newtons)
Shock absorbance
2.84G
Size: 700 x 23C
Tire pressure: Min: 115psi, Max: 145psi
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