Conti GP4000S Sidewall Problem

carl_p
carl_p Posts: 989
edited February 2012 in Road buying advice
I'm running 23mm on my best bike, 25mm on my winter "hack". The 25s look as new as the day they went on, the 23s however are beginning to crack around the sidewall. Also there are bits of thread hanging loose which when pulled naturally unravel around the whole tyre :lol:.

The 23s have had well under 2000 miles use. A bit of surfing suggests this is not an uncommon problem with the Conti and several people seem to replace them. The actual tread seems okay, well within the wear indicator. What do you reckon keep using them, or replace?

A bit dissappointed to be honest, was expecting better for such a recommended (and expensive tyre).

Cheers.
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Comments

  • Think you might just have duff tyres there - have you had them at the right pressure etc..? I run 23's without any problem and I weigh 17 stone+.
    'I started with nothing and still have most of it left.'
  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    It's a common problem with Conti tyres due to their construction and particularly if the fabric plies haven't been fully sealed into the tyre carcass - I have a pair that are constantly unravelling - I ended up going around them with a pair of scissors to cut off the fraying ends.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • Dont worry about it , i,m on my fourth pair now and they have all done this but a couple of pairs did over 8000 miles with no problems as Monty said its just something Conti,s do.
  • keef66
    keef66 Posts: 13,123
    Yep, just give them an occasional shave and a haircut.
  • carl_p
    carl_p Posts: 989
    Thanks for the replies. Bit more reassured now.

    The cracks are more noticeable when the tyres are deflated. Inflated to 95/100 psi, not so much. I'll see how they go.
    Specialized Venge S Works
    Cannondale Synapse
    Enigma Etape
    Genesis Flyer Single Speed


    Turn the corner, rub my eyes and hope the world will last...
  • rake
    rake Posts: 3,204
    that sounds crap. id change brand