Continental

Yes, the GP5000 S TR is one of the few high-end road tyres compatible with both rim-lock and hookless rims. On hookless rims (such as the Zipp 303 or 404 Firecrest), the maximum pressure is 5 bar. On standard tubeless-ready rims with a rim flange, the pressure rises to 6.5–7.5 bar depending on the tyre width. This dual compatibility is an innovative technology developed by Continental after 18 months of testing. On Vision Trimax 30 Disc rims, tubeless compatibility has been confirmed by Matériel Vélo’s after-sales service. On Mavic SLR32 rims, tubeless fitting is possible but may require a bit of care.

The GP5000 is the classic tubetype version (330 TPI, inner tube), the GP5000 S TR is the improved tubeless-ready version (220 TPI, lighter, hookless-compatible), and the GP5000 AS TR is the all-season version with enhanced grip on wet surfaces and superior durability.The GP5000 tubetype remains the benchmark for those who do not wish to switch to tubeless, offering an optimal combination with a latex inner tube. The GP5000 S TR is the best choice for high-performance tubeless riding. The AS TR sacrifices a little performance for increased mileage (one customer reports 8,000 km without a puncture and another cites 10,000 km). The GP5000 TT TR is also available for time trials.

The GP5000 is known to be more difficult to fit than Vittoria or Hutchinson tyres, particularly in the tubeless version. Matériel Vélo’s customer service team states that on Giant rims (30 mm), fitting can be done by hand without any problems, but on Mavic Ksyrium rims the result may vary. For the tubeless GP5000 S TR, one customer recommends pushing the bead down into the rim with each small advance, and using soapy water makes it easier to get it on. Two tyre levers are useful for the final part. Once it has been worked in after a few fits and removals, the GP5000 becomes easier to handle. The tubetype version remains more accessible than the tubeless version.

The GP4 Season is specifically designed for all-season use with a reinforced compound and thicker sidewalls, offering better puncture resistance than the GP5000 in challenging conditions. Customers report very satisfactory performance on wet surfaces. The GP5000 AS TR (all-season) is the latest version, incorporating the technologies of the GP5000 S TR with improved grip in wet conditions. If your priority is puncture resistance and longevity on rough roads, the GP4 Season or the AS TR are the obvious choices. For summer rides where performance is the priority, the GP5000 remains superior.

Black Chili is Continental’s proprietary compound, manufactured in Korbach, Germany, which simultaneously optimises grip, rolling resistance and durability. It is featured across the entire GP5000 range. According to independent tests, the combination of polymers and carbon particles offers one of the best balances on the market between these three parameters. Customers who return to the GP5000 after trying other tyres regularly cite Black Chili as the main reason for their return. The laser-etched pattern on the tyre’s edges improves cornering grip without compromising performance on the central tread.

On Wilier SLR 42 KC Disc rims, fitting a 25 mm tyre is technically possible, but Matériel Vélo’s after-sales service recommends sticking to 28 mm or wider for optimal performance. Modern wide rims are designed for tyres of at least 28 mm: fitting a 25 mm tyre reduces comfort and grip without any significant mechanical gain. Bikes fitted with these rims as standard are generally supplied with 28 mm tyres for this reason. If you prefer 25 mm tyres for weight reasons or out of habit, check that there is sufficient clearance between the frame and the tyre to prevent any rubbing.

The Continental premium range (Grand Prix 5000, 4 Season) is manufactured in Korbach, Lower Saxony (Germany). The brand, founded in 1871 in Hanover, maintains its premium production in Germany as a mark of quality. The entry-level ranges may be produced in other Continental Group factories abroad. The fact that the GP range is manufactured in Germany is often cited as a guarantee of quality in customer reviews. The date of manufacture, identifiable via the four-digit code on the tyre sidewall, allows you to ensure the freshness of the stock ordered.

The Grand Prix (entry-level range, without a number) is positioned as a more affordable alternative to the GP5000, with its value for money praised by customers. Reviews describe it as almost as good as the GP5000 in terms of performance, but slightly less effective in puncture resistance. One customer notes that with the standard Grand Prix tyres, they see little point in going tubeless as they are so puncture-resistant. For daily training or cyclosportives on a moderate budget, it is an excellent choice. The GP5000 remains superior for competition and high-performance goals.

The GP5000 S TR Tour de France 2024 is technically identical to the standard GP5000 S TR, but features a special TDF-marked edition, used by UAE Team Emirates, INEOS Grenadiers, Decathlon AG2R, Movistar and Groupama-FDJ during the 2024 Tour. The Black Chili compound, 220 TPI casing, laser markings and hookless compatibility are present on both versions. Customers have used them with the same results. The appeal is mainly symbolic, for cyclists wishing to ride on the same tyre as the professionals. The actual performance is identical to the standard version.