Schwalbe

Tubeless Easy (TLE) is Schwalbe ’s tubeless system, designed to make fitting easier without a compressor. Schwalbe has redesigned the tyre beads to allow for manual fitting and inflation using a foot pump. This is one of the key features that sets the One Pro apart from the GP 5000 S TR Continental, which is often considered more difficult to fit. Compatibility with hookless rims is guaranteed across the entire recent TLE range, with a maximum pressure generally ranging from 5.5 to 6 bar depending on the tyre width.

Addix is Schwalbe ’s range of high-performance tyres, available in several variants depending on intended use. Addix Race: for competitive road cycling, low rolling resistance, excellent grip. Addix Speed: designed for XC mountain biking, prioritising efficiency and speed. Addix SpeedGrip: a balance of grip and durability for all-mountain mountain biking. Addix Soft: for enduro and downhill, maximum grip. On the road, the Addix Race compound is formulated with a high silica content, giving it an excellent balance of efficiency and grip on wet surfaces.

Yes: the One TLE Pro is regularly cited as one of the easiest tubeless tyres to fit on the market. Testers report fitting a pair in under a quarter of an hour, without a compressor or tyre lever in the vast majority of cases. The GP 5000 S TR is more difficult, often requiring a tyre lever for the final bead. On the other hand, some users feel that the Pro One TLE is slightly more prone to cuts than the GP 5000: the Continental ’s superior puncture resistance is its main advantage in the field.

The lifespan of the Pro One is a frequently cited limitation: approximately 3,000–4,000 km, which is shorter than that of the Continental GP 5000. The high-performance Addix rubber Race wears out faster than the Black Chili rubber Continental. The tread tends to become ‘square’ (centrally worn) after 2,500–3,000 km. A wear indicator (small holes in the tread) signals when it is time to replace the tyre. To maximise its lifespan, rotate the tyres front to rear every 1,500 km.

Yes, Schwalbe is a German brand founded in 1901, with its headquarters in Reichshof (North Rhine-Westphalia). The name ‘ Schwalbe ’ means ‘swallow’ in German. The brand has established itself as a world leader in bicycle tyres across all segments: city (Marathon, Kojak), mountain biking (Magic Mary, Hans Dampf, Racing Ralph) and road cycling (Pro One, One, Durano). Schwalbe is a pioneer in tubeless mountain biking and has transferred this expertise to road cycling with the Pro One TLE since 2015.

Yes, the latest Pro One TLE range is compatible with hookless rims. Schwalbe publishes a compatibility chart for its TLE tyres and the main hookless rims on the market (Zipp, Enve, CADEX, etc.). The maximum pressure on hookless rims is generally 5.5 bar for the Pro One. Please check the table at Schwalbe before purchasing: compatibility varies depending on the tyre generation. Not all Pro One TT (triathlon, ultra-light) tyres are certified as hookless.

Schwalbe ’s G-One range is the brand’s benchmark for gravel cycling. G-One Speed (semi-slick, 35–40 mm): the fastest on compact tracks, ideal for gravel racing. G-One RS (35 mm): even more performance-oriented, semi-slick with subtle side knobs. G-One Bite (40–50 mm): versatile tread pattern for varied terrain, good grip in light mud. G-One Ultrabite (50 mm): designed for technical all-terrain riding, with pronounced knobs for traction. All are available in tubeless versions and use Addix SpeedGrip or Speed compounds, depending on the model.

Preventative fluid is the key to maintaining a tubeless tyre Schwalbe. Schwalbe recommends its Doc Blue preventative fluid for optimum compatibility. Replace the sealant every 2–3 months (or before a race or major event): the sealant dries out and gradually loses its puncture-prevention effectiveness over time. Check the tyre pressure before every ride: tubeless tyres lose an average of 0.5–1 bar per week. If a puncture is not sealed by the sealant: tap the damaged area, spin the wheel quickly and add 30 ml of fresh sealant if necessary.

Yes, the Durano DD (Double Defence) is the go-to training and winter tyre at Schwalbe. Its double puncture protection makes it highly resistant to road debris, sidewall cuts (common in winter on muddy roads) and wear and tear. Its lifespan can exceed 8,000–10,000 km in mixed use, albeit at the cost of slightly lower performance compared to the Pro One. The Durano Plus offers even greater robustness with further reinforced protection, albeit at the cost of a higher weight (around 350–370 g in 700x25). For cyclists who ride all year round, the Durano DD is often the recommended second set of tyres.