If the Continental Grand Prix clincher tyres were once the reliable best mate to every cyclist, then the newest Continental GP 4000 S II tyre's are its younger, hotter sibling.
Boasting an improved compound, a selection of sidewall hues and extra width, the gold standard in all-rounder is the obvious choice for the 2017 Editors Choice awards...
The Continental Grand Prix tyre has long been a flagship tyre, so it's seen multiple facelifts as the brand has aimed to make the almost-best the absolute-best.
It's always been a race ready rubber shield, but puncture protection and resilience haven't been left on the subs bench hence the tyre's popularity.
The latest iteration of the clincher tyre - the Continental GP 4000 S II tyre - sees Continental move with the trend of ever increasing tyre width. Whilst 25c is by far the most popular option at present, Conti has catered for all with the introduction of a 28mm option which will suit those looking to transverse rutted terrain or seeking better grip in the wet.
BlackChili compound now promises lower rolling resistance and improved resilience
Continental has also developed its famous BlackChili compound, which promotes grip, but it now promises lower rolling resistance and improved resilience to master greater milage.
What sets the GP's apart from other race tyres, which also offer impeccable grip, is the incorporation of the Vectran Breaker.
The expertly designed layer within these tyres acts as an intermediate between the sharp outside objects and the inner tube within.
Of course, it's always possible to slice open and puncture any tyre on a first ride, (it's sods law) but the likelihood is much lower on these. We've managed entire summer seasons rolling on these with no punctures - and only a handful of flats when running them even in winter.
Sure, there are tyres that can boast a more supple rubber and lower rolling resistance that could save you 1.5watts - but these offer an almost-perfect ride quality coupled with a significantly reduced likelihood if spending time beside the road fixing punctures.
The price? £49.99 a tyre - but we bet you can find a deal out there somewhere.
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Oliver Bridgewood - no, Doctor Oliver Bridgewood - is a PhD Chemist who discovered a love of cycling. He enjoys racing time trials, hill climbs, road races and criteriums. During his time at Cycling Weekly, he worked predominantly within the tech team, also utilising his science background to produce insightful fitness articles, before moving to an entirely video-focused role heading up the Cycling Weekly YouTube channel, where his feature-length documentary 'Project 49' was his crowning glory.
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