gavhowe06 wrote:Hello, I came across this thread whilst searching tubeless road tyres. I normally race on GP4000ii, and had been used 4 seasons for the winter training months. But after the purchase of some new tubeless wheels I thought I would give tubeless a go. First I tried Pro Ones, these seem to puncture often and cut up and get sliced. To a point where an inner tube was the only way to continue using them. However they do not have a puncture resistant band under the rubber, so with an inner tube they puncture even more often, so took them off.
I then researched IRC formula Pro tyres, I decided to go with the x-guard, so this seemed to be an RBCC but with a puncture resistant belt. My thinking being that I could use an inner tube if they got sliced.
They however are the slowest tyres I have ever rode, did a TT on them and was 1min slower at the same power.
So I decided to do a rolling resistance test on my rollers, at the same speed the IRC's required 30watts more than the GP4000. This is the same air pressure same everything other than the tyres.
Now I do think the rollers amplify the value due to the tyre deflecting more, but they are so much slower even on the road.
So now the question is what do I buy instead, would the IRC RBCC or X-light be any faster really, no marketing bullsh*t.
What model were "Team on Form" using in racing or "NIPPO VINI FANTINI"?
My experiences echo yours. I used Conti GP4000S2 (summer) and 4 seasons for training. I also found Schwalbe Pro Ones to cut up and puncture terribly. Total waste of money for me.
I wanted to try Panaracer Race A Evo tubeless, but they aren't available where I live, could have bought online and have them sent from another country, but needed something quickly. So I bought Panaracer Race D Evo (tube), I have found them to be every bit as durable as Conti four seasons and better handling. Also it's easy to see where you have picked up glass in the tread as they are a slick. They also seem to love my DT Swiss rims and ping when they are inflated like a tubeless tires. Loving them.
So I'm going to try Panaracer Race A Evo tubeless and run them with orange sealant in the spring. Panaracer seem often overlooked but are actually some of the best tires around.