Challenge

Grifo XS Cross Tubular

Is racing at a low PSI important to you? How about resistance to flats and guaranteed speed over bone dry terrain? We thought so. It sounds like an awesome recipe to us, too. But, if you were to sprinkle in some classic tubular aesthetics, you'd have the chocolate lava cake of cyclocross tires. Don't worry, this combination does exist here on Earth, and it's called the Challenge Grifo XS Cross Tubular tire.

Grifo XS owes its success to a host of seemingly singular contributions, but ultimately, it all comes down the tread pattern. Challenge bestowed a pattern, that at first glance, appears low in profile -- and that's because it is. The pattern design doesn't require the extra weight of bulky, tall knobbies. Instead, the flat knob-shape provides ample grip in dry conditions, while minimizing the associated rolling resistance. The highest point of the pattern lies in the middle of the tire, while moving outward, the knobbies gradually take on a svelte shape to provide traction in corners. However, the Grifo's tread pattern is intended to be mounted in either direction. Should you require heavy traction, say in slightly wet conditions, Challenge recommends that you mount the tire with the tread orientation facing backwards. For 'normal' race conditions, mount with the tread rolling forward. Regardless, you'll be rolling fast.

For durability, the Grifo is constructed from a highly puncture-resistant and lightweight Super Poly casing. The Challenge Grifo XS Cross Tubular is only available as a 32 and 33mm tubular tire and in the color Black/brown. Each tire weighs in around 415g and is 260TPI.