BIKERUMOR.com 2009 SEA OTTER CLASSIC COVERAGE: Michelin had a rainbow of colors, but the new tire is the “Ivory” at top left.  These are the Pro3 Race tires, which have a dual compound contact area that’s harder in the center for less rolling resistance and softer on the sides for better cornering grip.  Compared to the previous Pro2 series, the Pro3 offers 20% more grip in the center and 40% more on the shoulders.  All colors are available in 200g 700×23 tires, and the black/gray is also available in a 650 size and a 700×25.
At left (click to enlarge) shown next to the Pro3 Race for comparison, they also have a new Pro3 Grip, which uses a broad section of grippier rubber, offering 20% more adhesion than the Pro3 Race.  It’s intended for wet weather racing and riding.  Weight is 215g for the 700×23 tire, and it’s available in both a blue/black and gray/black color scheme.
Both the Pro3 Race and Grip use Michelin’s high density puncture protection and 127TPI casing.  They will handle 87 to 116psi.ÂÂ
Hit “more” to see their new commuter tires…
For commuters and city riders, Michelin’s PROTEK puncture resistance system keeps you rolling. The cutaways show the massive padding (yellow stuff) in the Pilot City (top) with the PROTEK Max with protection from both punctures and pinch flats, supposedly even if you case the wheel pretty hard.  They’re good training tires, too, since they weigh from 850g to 1135g depending on the size.
The base City tire (bottom) has their regular PROTEK Plus, a 1mm thick reinforcement strip under the tread.
ÂÂ
