Continental Gator Hardshell - 700c

I've used these (25c) for training and racing (including the Tour of the Battenkill) without a single puncture. A bit heavy (can feel it vs. the 23c Gatorskins) on the climbs, but perfect for training and brutal unpave racing.

But you'd hardly know it with the hardshells. They aren't the fastest-feeling tires I've had on my 32 pound commuting biketank, but the number of times I've not had to stop and repair tubes makes it worth it. If you're looking for fast and snappy feeling, look elsewhere, but these are as close to the perfect higher-pressure commuting tire as I've used in the last few years and I'm happy with them. The one flat I have had (staples!) I didn't notice at first because the 25s keep their shape well and are so sturdy. I'd give them an A- as a commuting tire.

26 mile round trip commute over every type of urban surface. Yeah, the feel is a little firm and they might be a little slow- but I'd rather make it home a few seconds slower than be stuck on the side of the road fixing a flat.

I put these on (700x23) in the spring and have probably 3000 miles on them. Only one cut in the rear tire, no punctures. I ride on mainly smooth pavement with the occasional strewn gravel, glass and usual road debris. The feel a bit more stiff than the Conti GP 4000 I ride on for longer training rides and long event rides. They are probably a touch heavier and and may more rolling resistance, but for day to day training a great choice I will stick with. I figure the added weight and rolling resistance are like resistance training.