Schwalbe Blizzard Sports cheap but are they cheerful?

white91

My Planet X came with these tyres as standard (non folding version). As I am getting better and cycling more miles (~100 per week) I feel like better tyres might be faster?

I know I can only run these at 110 psi, and they are not exactly lightweight. The group of 6 or so riders seem to think tyres and tubes will be very cost effective upgrades.

I don't currently race but I am targeting a possible 50 mile sportive next month, would something along the lines of an Ultremo or PR3 make much difference?

amaferanga

Unless you're quite larger then there's not much point in running your tyres at anything more than 110psi. The non-folding Blizzards will be heavy compared to something like the Michelin Pro3 Race and probably less grippy (especially in the wet), but unless you're racing it doesn't really matter. If it were me I'd keep using the Blizzards until they wear out and then replace them with a Michelin Krylion. The Krylions are fairly light, yet still quite puncture resistant and long-lasting so are an ideal every day tyre IMO.

white91

I am 14.5 stone so a little larger than most cyclists. I think I will wear the Blizzards out while looking for some clear out bargains somewhere.

StanwaySteve62

Bloody lightweight ! 15.5 stone.

white91

Does anyone know how much they weigh? The rear tyre is looking prety worn now, so I am eyeing up some conti ultra sports.

sandyballs

Changed recently from Blizzards to Conti GP4000s, excellent tyres and you can tell the difference. Impulse buy since they were half price.

edindevon

white91 wrote:

Does anyone know how much they weigh? The rear tyre is looking prety worn now, so I am eyeing up some conti ultra sports.

I personally would not recommend Continental Ultra Sports.

I got some and found them really slippy in the wet. I was so unimpressed that after using one pair for a few rides I gave up on them.

I've had a spare pair of these folders (in blue) boxed and unused in my cupboard for a couple of years now. if you really want to try these tyres, I'll sell you to the pair I have for £14 posted. Obviously I can send you pics if needed

Edindevon

passout

I'd say that they are good winter tyres; they are durable. Treat yourself to some pro race 3s in the summer!

yaya

white91 wrote:

My Planet X came with these tyres as standard (non folding version). As I am getting better and cycling more miles (~100 per week) I feel like better tyres might be faster?

I know I can only run these at 110 psi, and they are not exactly lightweight. The group of 6 or so riders seem to think tyres and tubes will be very cost effective upgrades.

I don't currently race but I am targeting a possible 50 mile sportive next month, would something along the lines of an Ultremo or PR3 make much difference?

My experience with the Blizzards was not great...lots of punctures (in the front as well!!!) and not very grippy in the wet

They wore quickly so I was almost glad I could get rid of them...tried a couple of other brands and finally settled on the Krylions...been happy ever since!!!

desweller

I'd recommend against the Ultra Sports; poor puncture protection and highly variable grip levels IME. The GP4000S, on the other hand, have been superb for me. Much more expensive but worth it for the level of confidence they inspire on fast, slippy descents.

white91

Thanks for all your help guys, I might try the folders Edindevon when I get my student loan through if you still have them.

I also fancy trying the Ultremo ZX tyres.