When Pirelli returned to bicycle tires in 2017, it was the P Zero Velo TT road bike tire that led the way. Now, it’s upgrading from casual-use “Velo” status to proper “Race” level performance thanks to a new compound and other updates.
Now called the Pirelli P Zero Race TT, it’s 5% lighter and has 15% less rolling resistance thanks to a new, minimalist 120tpi casing.
Designed for racing, they say it’s not only their lightest tire, but also their highest performing clincher, as long as you’re still running tubes. Without having to reinforce the casing with less-permeable materials, they’re able to make it lighter and more supple. Doing without any puncture or cut protection makes it lighter still.
They say it was created for their pro team use combined with their ultralight SmarTUBE inner tubes, and that the US Trek-Segafredo and/or French AG2R teams will be using it in some stages of the Vuelta and/or Tour de France.
The compound is their Silica-enhanced SmartEVO rubber. It’s no longer a full slick; it borrows the tubeless-ready P ZERO Race’s tread pattern for enhanced cornering grip and all weather performance.
They’re being made in Pirelli’s Italian factory now, too. Available in 26mm and 28mm sizes for 700c wheels. Claimed weights are 170g and 190g respectively.
