Pirelli Cinturato Velo
The Pirelli Cinturato Velo TLR emerges as one of the best choices for road bike tires, especially for those looking for a reliable option for year-round use. Its impressive performance in terms of puncture resistance, ride quality, and rolling resistance makes it a top contender. While not the absolute fastest, the Cinturato Velo TLR excels in providing a comfortable and zippy ride, making it suitable for various road conditions. Whether tackling wet and mucky autumn roads or enjoying a brisk summer ride, these tires prove to be versatile and durable. With a competitive price point, they offer a well-rounded package for cyclists prioritizing a combination of performance and longevity.
Pirelli Cinturato Velo Review

Johan van Seijen
November 9, 2022
Ride Quality:
The Pirelli Cinturato Velo TLR tires deliver an impressive ride quality that strikes a balance between speed and comfort. Tested through diverse conditions, from hot summer days to wet and mucky autumn rides, these tires showcased a zippy and fast-rolling performance. Despite a slightly heavier weight of 360g for the 28mm variant, the tires felt surprisingly quick, making them suitable for year-round use. The supple and comfortable feel, even on rough surfaces, makes them an excellent choice for varied road conditions.
Rolling Resistance:
The Cinturato Velo TLR tires maintain good rolling resistance, allowing for a smooth and efficient ride. The SmartNET Silica technology and 60 TPI casing contribute to their speed and responsiveness. While they may not match the speed of dedicated summer tires, their performance in this regard remains commendable, especially considering their focus on durability and puncture resistance.
Puncture Resistance:
Pirelli’s emphasis on puncture protection is evident in the Cinturato Velo TLR tires. The Armour Tech casing, inspired by motorsport tire technology and incorporating Kevlar fibers, provides robust defense against punctures. The Aramid breaker layer under the tread and additional reinforcement contribute to the tire’s durability. Throughout testing, the reviewer reported no punctures, indicating the effectiveness of these tires in resisting road debris and hazards.
Ease of Installation:
Setting up the Cinturato Velo TLR tires, whether with inner tubes or tubeless, proved to be reasonably straightforward. Tubeless installation was reported to be hassle-free, with the tire sealing successfully after a minor issue with sealant leakage. The tires’ compatibility with hookless rims adds versatility to their installation options. The ease of setup, particularly in tubeless mode, contributes to a positive overall user experience.
Price:
Priced around $75 per tire, the Cinturato Velo TLR falls within a competitive range when compared to other high-quality road bike tires. While they may be more expensive than some budget options, the balance of puncture resistance, ride quality, and performance justifies the investment. The price aligns with other reputable tires in the market, offering a reasonable proposition for cyclists seeking a reliable and durable option.
Pirelli Cinturato Velo Specifications
Diameter | Size | ETRTO | Weight (gr) | Tread color | Sidewall color | Compound/Casing | Puncture protection | Tire bead | TPI |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
700C | 700Cx24 | 24-622 | 280 | Black | Black | SmartNET | Armour Tech | tlr | 66 |
700C | 700Cx26 | 26-622 | 300 | Black | Tan | SmartNET | Armour Tech | tlr | 66 |
700C | 700Cx26 | 26-622 | 300 | Black | Black | SmartNET | Armour Tech | tlr | 66 |
700C | 700Cx28 | 28-622 | 340 | Black | Tan | SmartNET | Armour Tech | tlr | 66 |
700C | 700Cx28 | 28-622 | 340 | Black | Black | SmartNET | Armour Tech | tlr | 66 |
700C | 700Cx32 | 32-622 | 360 | Black | Black | SmartNET | Armour Tech | tlr | 66 |
700C | 700Cx35 | 35-622 | 410 | Black | Black | SmartNET | Armour Tech | tlr | 66 |