Challenge

The three models are designed for different uses on road and gravel. The Criterium RS (350 TPI, tubeless ready) is the road racing tyre: fast, available in 25 and 27 mm. The Strada Pro and Strada Race are Challenge’s versatile road tyres, with beige sidewalls available for a vintage look reminiscent of tubular tyres. The Strada Bianca (36 mm) is the tyre for unpaved roads (light gravel and cobbles), inspired by the Strade Bianche and Paris-Roubaix: robust and comfortable on rough surfaces.

Yes, Challenge introduced its first Tubeless Ready tyres in 2019. The Challenge TLR range covers road (Criterium RS TLR, Strada Pro TLR) and gravel models. Fitting is often considered difficult on the first installation: the tight casing sometimes requires a compressor. Once fitted, the seal is adequate with sealant. The main advantage of the Challenge TLR: a feel similar to a tubular tyre thanks to the very flexible casing, even when fitted as a tubeless tyre.

Yes, Challenge is an Italian brand founded in 1990, specialising in high-end tyres and tubulars. Production is carried out by hand in Thailand, following traditional craftsmanship. Challenge first made its name in cyclocross before developing road, gravel and MTB ranges. Challenge tubular tyres (Criterium RS, Elite Pro) are used by WorldTour teams and in cyclocross world championships.

Their lifespan is shorter than that of mass-produced tyres: approximately 2,500–4,000 km depending on the model. The flexibility of the casing and the thinness of the rubber, which are key to their performance, result in faster wear. Challenge tyres are primarily designed for performance and competition, not endurance. For daily training, the more robust models (with thicker rubber) are recommended. However, Challenge tubulars often last longer if stored correctly before fitting (the casing becomes more supple over time).

Yes, Challenge tubular tyres are compatible with all standard tubular rims (19–21 mm rim width). Fitting requires tubular glue or double-sided tubeless tape for optimal hold. Traditional glue (Continental, Vittoria) offers the best feel (the tyre does not move). Tape is more practical but gives a slightly softer feel, like a slow puncture. Puncture-prevention fluid can be used in Challenge tubulars but must be compatible with the latex inner tube (avoid ammonia-based prevention fluids).

Challenge offers several gravel models: Gravel Grinder Race, Getaway and Strada Bianca. The Gravel Grinder Race (33–40 mm) is the brand’s fast gravel tyre, a semi-slick with side knobs. The Getaway (36–42 mm, tubeless ready) is the versatile gravel tyre, fast on compact trails. The Strada Bianca (36 mm) is the most robust option for rough gravel roads and cobblestones. All these models are available with the aesthetically popular beige sidewalls.

The TPI (Threads Per Inch) indicates the density of the casing: the higher it is, the more flexible and lighter the tyre. 60 TPI: thick polyester casing, entry-level, more resistant to cuts. 150–300 TPI: cotton casing, good performance-to-price ratio, cyclosportif segment. 350 TPI: very dense cotton casing, similar to silk, for competition. Silk casings (not specified in TPI) are the most flexible. In practice, the difference in feel between a 300 and a 350 TPI is noticeable on undulating roads.

No, Challenge tyres are primarily competition tyres and are not well suited to winter training. The flexible casing and thin rubber wear out quickly on the salted and abrasive roads of winter. For winter use, increased protection (puncture protection) is necessary. Challenge does not offer a specific winter range. Cyclists who use Challenge tyres outside of competition reserve them for summer rides on good roads or for race days.

Yes, the Challenge cyclocross range is one of the most comprehensive and widely used in competition. The Grifo is the benchmark for dry, hard terrain (grass, dirt). The Limus is the deep-mud tyre with its widely spaced knobs that clear mud effectively. The Baby Limus offers superior versatility with lower knobs. All these models are available as tubulars and, in some versions, as TLR tyres. The brand regularly secures world titles in cyclocross thanks to its partnerships with the best specialists.