Tires, Tubes

I can't go skinnier than 50c now that I've ridden my new Terra Hardpack tires. I'm pretty convinced that size outweighs tread design when it comes to riding over varied terrain. On rough, rooty trails this tire really shines when you have the pressure on the lower side. It floats over small rocks and bumps. The grip is substantial, even in the wet stuff. Mounting these tires was also a snap. For reference, I have them on Bontrager Aelous Pro 3V wheels, 25mm internal. It's been a "fit and forget" setup. Will have to revisit the durability and wear characteristics later in the season as these are still fairly new.

I installed this tire on the rear wheel with a Cinturato Gravel M up front. This rear tire rolls really well while still providing good grip on the type of terrain I ride on (e.g. mix of pavement, hardpack, and loose over hard). On loose gravel, I had found my old tire (Bontrager Team GR1) would easily spin out on acceleration from a stop, while on the same gravel this tire digs in and grips. Longer rides including on pavement are still comfortable and low noise, too, so this tire perfectly fits what I need.

I built or repaired an easy 20,000 bikes putting myself through college.

I'd say I've seen it all!

I was hesitant at first to buy expensive tires without a center rib, I don't care to waste any energy!

I was absolutely shocked by how well these roll, Schwalbe really did their homework!

I ride all Winter in Michigan if the snow depth isn't much. Even on ice these performed well!

I ride both country dirt roads and urban streets with broken glass, never have had a puncture!

I ran a set in 2023 for two years, no problems, good performance for the longevity.

I bought a 2023 model in 2024, and not only were they much harder to mount, one of them was harder than the other. To give an idea I needed a tool to get the first side of the tire mounted, a job that is normally for hands. It took a solid half hour and some skin to get the things on.

If they last as long I might forget and get a new pair, otherwise I'm liable to try something that fits better.