Challenge

Strada Tire - Tubular

We've noticed that the 25mm-wide tubular is becoming increasingly popular on professional riders' race-day setups. Compared to the standard 23mm-wide tubulars, these wider tires not only provide solid traction and low rolling-resistance, but they're also more comfortable. Challenge is well aware of these sought-after characteristics, which is why it developed its new Strada Tubular with a supple casing, 25mm profile, and an ultra-gripp'y tread pattern.

Challenge accomplished this versatility using its handmade, highly puncture-resistant, and lightweight Super Poly casing. With 260 threads per inch (TPI), you receive a remarkably supple ride -- and it's a difference that you'll feel the first time out. On top of the casing, Challenge added a belt of corespun polyester. Essentially, this means that the casing fibers are made by twisting staple cotton fibers around a central filament core, creating one yarn from multiple fibers. As a result, the material is between 40 and 50% stronger than typically spun materials, while retaining a similar, if not lower, overall weight. This second layer is what Challenge calls its PPS (Puncture Protection System), and it's specifically made from the tightly woven polyester material in order to preserve the casing's supple feel.

For the tread, Challenge used its proven file-like herringbone pattern. This low-profile pattern perfectly blends speed and grip. The tread was applied using Challenge's proven hand-glued method, which involves mounting and then inflating the casing onto a wheel. Only then does Challenge carefully glue on the tread layer. As a result, the tread isn't put under tension when you inflate the tire on your wheel, and that lack of tension leads to lower rolling-resistance, added grip, and increased comfort.

The Challenge Strada Tubular Tire is available in a 700c x 25mm size and in the color Black/tan. Each tire weighs in around 270 grams. Please note that Challenge gave this tire a latex inner tube to save as much weight and roll as fast as possible. Because latex is more porous than butyl rubber, you'll have to pump up a bit before your rides.