First Ever race - Changing Tyres

mccutchie

Guys,

I'm participating in my first ever race on Sunday. As i'm only entry level the race is over 50km, but as with any race it will be competitive. My rear tyre is ragged, many cuts and I think i'm taking a big risk using it.
I have 2 sets in mind, Michelin Krylion or Michelin Pro Race 3. The fact is I probably will only do this race, everything else I do will be sportives and training rides. I'll be on the bike 3 times per week.

Is there that much of a difference to justify putting on the pro race 3 or should I use the krylion. My current tyres are vittoria rubino pro race 3 which I like but have cut alot on my training routes, especially the rear tyre.

I appreciate your advice.
Martin

Anonymous

It's a bit of a no brainer, race = best tyres. Don't use cut tyres as they are more likely to puncture.

benno68

I don't race but my everyday bike and my weekend bike both have PRO3 Race (23's) on them.

They are very sticky when brand new and can collect grit on the first ride, I'd suggest you go on decent roads for the first ride and keep the pressure up on them at all times.

I have mine at 110/120psi - that said I am a fat bar steward.

FransJacques

If you're cornering a lot the PR3s are for my 82kgs are the best. They really roll over onto the sidewalls more like a tubie than Contis which are shaped more like a lightbulb. (I've not used Schwables but they seem to rate highly).

Stay towards the front if you can for the first bit, try not to grovel at the back. When you look around 1/3 into the race you'll sometimes be surprised to see how depleted the field will be. That's when I take it easy and mooch around the back. (which is why I've never been in a winning break but that's beside the point)

Be vocal to make your place. Talk, don't shout, at the guy beside to if he's crowding you out.

You'll be amazing at how hard you'll have to corner to keep up. It's exhilerating.

But do NOT dig in your pedal, wait until you're more vertical.

Enjoy!

mccutchie

Cheers for the advice guys, looks like the pro race 3 are the way to go, i hope they hold up for a while, secondary roads in ireland not too good

Anonymous

Use the krylions for normal riding/training and just put your p3rs on for specific races and sportives...

Monty Dog

Yup, keep your best tyres for racing duties and train on more durable rubber. Race tyres are made from softer compound rubber for improved grip and have softer, more supple casings for better handling - I expect to get a 'season' out of a race tyre i.e. 1000km whereas a training tyre can easily last 5 times that.

Ciclicasati

PR3's cut up very easily, not saying you get punctures, just they are quite soft. I guess this in turn makes them a very pleasant ride.. Best tyres for riding but not most durable. You will get your best miles out of them but not the most.