Continental Sprinter Gatorskin

Ride Quality:
The Continental Sprinter Gatorskin Tubular tire offers a smooth and secure ride, typical of tubular tires. The triple-layered carcass provides a stable and comfortable experience, particularly on smooth tarmac and broken asphalt. However, on rough roads, the ride may feel somewhat ‘dead,’ a characteristic attributed to the tire’s construction.

Cornering:
The tire exhibits reliable cornering capabilities, delivering secure grip even during fast turns. The recommended pressure of 10 bar strikes a good balance for various road conditions, offering confidence-inspiring traction. The wider 25mm version improves comfort, grip, and traction, especially on uneven surfaces.

Rolling Resistance:
While the ride quality is generally good, the rolling resistance of the Continental Sprinter Gatorskin Tubular tire might not be as low as you might expect. The thick and stiff carcass contributes to a slightly higher rolling resistance, especially on rough roads. The trade-off for puncture/cut resistance comes at the expense of some energy efficiency.

Puncture Resistance:
Puncture and cut resistance are standout features of these tires. With a diamond thread pattern and a robust construction, the tire exhibits excellent durability. After having ridden around 500 miles, I didn’t experience a single flat, even after some hard road use. The tire’s ability to resist punctures and cuts contributes to its reliability for everyday training.

Ease of Installation:
Mounting the Continental Sprinter Gatorskin Tubular tire can be a bit challenging. This has probably to do with the thick carcass and stiffness of the tire, and they require some effort during installation. Folding a spare also demands a sturdy strap to keep the tire compact. Despite these challenges, the tire proves to be a reliable choice for everyday use.

Price:
Priced around $60, the Continental Sprinter Gatorskin Tubular falls towards the lower end of the price range for tubular tires. While not the lightest option at 300g, its durability and puncture resistance make it a cost-effective choice for riders seeking an everyday tire with solid performance.