Choosing the Right Winter Tyres for Your Road Bike
As the days get shorter and the roads get wetter, winter riding brings its own set of challenges. One of the biggest issues? Punctures. If you’ve ever been stranded on a cold, damp roadside fixing a flat, you’ll know how important tyre choice is during the winter months.
Why Winter Is Tough on Tyres
Wet roads act like a magnet for grit, flints, and tiny shards of debris. These stick to the surface and eventually work their way through the tyre casing. Even tyres that perform brilliantly in summer can struggle when conditions change. That’s exactly what I found with the wrong choice of winter rubber.
Schwalbe Pro One and Continental GP5000 – Great in Summer, Not So Much in Winter
I’ve used Schwalbe and Continental racing tyres for years and loved them during the warmer months. They roll well and feel fast. But come winter, punctures became an issue. The combination of wet roads and sharp grit was too much for them. If you’re riding in similar conditions, you might find the same problem.
Continental Gatorskin Hardshell – Bulletproof but Brutal
When I built up a new winter bike, I tried Continental Gatorskin Hardshells. A mate gave me a pair for free, and I thought I’d give them a whirl. These tyres are known for their durability and puncture resistance—and I’m sure they are. But there was a catch: they sucked the life out of my rides. Rolling resistance was high, and keeping pace on club rides felt like riding through treacle. If you’re commuting and want reliability above all else, Gatorskins might be a good option. For quicker group rides? Not so much.
Pirelli Cinturato Velo – A Sweet Spot
Currently, I’m running Pirelli Cinturato Velo tyres, and they’ve been great. They strike a balance between puncture protection and performance. Lower rolling resistance, lighter weight, and—touch wood—no punctures so far. They feel lively without sacrificing the toughness you need for winter roads. For me, they’ve hit that sweet spot between speed and durability. They perhaps feel a little slower than my old Continental Grand Prix 4 Seasons but they’ve been replaced by Grand Prix 5000 All Seasons and I’ve not ridden those yet. These Cinturato’s will have to wear out first.
What to Look for in a Winter Tyre
- Puncture Protection: Look for tyres with reinforced casings or added layers like Kevlar.
- Grip: Wet roads demand good traction. A slightly wider tyre can help and be more comfortable too.
- Rolling Resistance: Heavier, more robust tyres often slow you down. Decide what matters most—speed or durability.
- Tubeless vs. Clincher: I’m still not convinced by tubeless for my type of road riding, it’s the cleaning of rims after the sealant has dried that I can’t be doing with. But, you do you.
Final Thoughts
Winter riding doesn’t have to mean constant punctures or sluggish performance. The right tyre can make all the difference. For me, Pirelli Cinturato Velos suit my winter rides, but every rider’s needs are different. If you’re commuting, Gatorskins might be perfect. If you want a balance of speed and protection, Pirelli could be worth a look.
Stay safe, stay warm, and keep rolling this winter.
Thank you for reading our latest blog, Choosing the Right Winter Tyres for Your Road Bike If you have any question please Get In Touch.
Scott
fitmybike.co.uk