Ultremo R vs vanilla

verloren

I'm looking for some durable, lightweight tires so I don't have to haul my armadillos around a few sportives this summer (was amazed to see that switching out could save me a kg). I'd decided on the Ultremos based in part on their great review in Cycling Plus a few months ago. More recently in the magazine, though, the Ultremo R was described as 'terrifying' in the wet, which doesn't sound like much of a recommendation.

So what's the difference between the two, is the R really a step down, and should I ignore both and go with the DD?

Cheers, Paul

Mettan

IIRC DD's (Double defence) were ~ 240 g ? - not particularly light (could be wrong on the weight though?) - if you want lightweight and durable then I'd go for GP4000s - GP4000s have a reputation for durability whereas most other race-able tyres don't. However, if you just want top-quality lightweight summer tyres then theres tons of choice - Pro Race 3's, Ultremo's (or R's), Diamante Pro 2's, Open Corsa CX 320 TPI's etc..

verloren

Well the Rs are 180g, which is low enough and seem to have a good reputation, but I'll take a look at the GPs, thanks.

nferrar

I used last year's standard Ultremo as my winter tyre and it was great, didn't get a single puncture and although there's quite a few small nicks in the tread they held up well.
I didn't see the review but I can't see how they're terrifying in the wet, they gripped well IME. I had the odd moment on muddy farm lanes but unless you're running CX tyres I can't see any road tyre wouldn't struggle in mud

I've just taken delivery of a pair of the new R version (£50 a pair at Merlin), they're certainly light - not fitted them yet though. The R isn't a step down as such, just lacks the sidewall reinforcement I think. But given how well the others stood up over the winter I'm not convinced it's needed (although if the DD model had also been on offer I probably would have gone for them as I don't mind a bit more weight for a bit of added protection).

bendertherobot

I had the Ultremos for a day. Ripped through the back one totally on something on the road. Straight through the sidewall. Shame as they looked the biz. Gone back to Pro Race 3.

blorg

I have used Ultremos for many many thousands of km and GP4000s (standard, not the S black chilli ones) for maybe a couple of thousand. My vote would be the Ultremos, for weight, grip and definitely puncture-resistance. They also go on to my rims a lot easier than the Contis. Use Gatorskins on my tourer, they are a lot better for grip/road feel compared to Armadillos, but are not so puncture-resistant (don't think anything is as good as Armadillos there, but they are an awful tyre to ride.)