As clincher rim technology continues to improve, so do the tyres being offered. Recent high-end clincher tyres seem to have bridged the gap between standard clincher tyres and the typically higher performing tubular offerings. This has made it a much more suitable choice for your everyday rider and racer, who wants the convenience of the clincher tyre but cannot compromise on speed and performance.
The new Open Corsa Graphene tyres offer an improved, longer lasting tread with great puncture protection, all whilst not compromising the speed, performance, and look of the tyre.
In the past, I have always been a fan of the previous Vittoria Corsa SC tyres, with their sexy yellow gum wall look. However, we always suffered a fragile relationship due to the light nature of the tyre. They were quite susceptible to punctures and I usually saved them for race day in order to preserve the tread. In contrast, the new Open Corsa Graphene tyres offer an improved, longer lasting tread with great puncture protection, all whilst not compromising the speed, performance, and look of the tyre.
The technology to do this is due to Vittoria’s new G+ Graphene. Graphene is a new material in tyres; it's in the form of a very thin sheet of pure carbon. The Graphene in these tyres is 2 to 8 atoms thin - such a small change, but it produces immense results in strengthening the tyres' puncture protection and increasing longevity. Vittoria also claim 19% less rolling resistance compared to the same product without Graphene.
I chose the 23c version, as my wide 25mm rim width meant the tyres bag out to effectively a 25c profile. If running on a standard rim, I would recommend to go for the 25c option. The wider profile will give a smoother ride and doesn’t seem to change rolling speed.
After around 1500km on these tyres they still look great and have plenty of life left in them. They handle great in dry and wet conditions, and I am still yet to experience a single puncture! Paired with a good quality latex tube, I can’t see what more one could want. I encourage you all to give your bike some love and them a try for yourself.
By Nelson - Pushys sponsored athlete