Challenge Tires are the most highly regarded tyre manufacturer when it comes to their cyclocross offerings. Ridden to many World Cup victories by pro-riders such as Helen Wyman, Tom Pidcock and Thibau Nys, as well as thousands of amateur enthusiasts all over the world in winter cyclocross leagues, they are famed for having a tyre for all conditions. As well as a wide range of tread patterns, they are also famous for the handmade artisan approach in making their tyres which results in a supple ride feeling, improved grip and lower rolling resistance.
With the gravel trend not showing any signs of slowing down, Challenge were perhaps one of the first to start offering tyres in bigger sizes, keeping up with the demands of riders venturing off-road. Given their success in the world of cyclocross, we catch up with Gianluca Modesti from Challenge to discuss their gravel range and how the handmade properties of a tyre can also win races in the world of gravel.
Handmade? What’s the deal?
One of the unique selling points of Challenge Tires is how they continue to push the benefits of using a handmade tyre. An artisan approach to tyre making, Gianluca says that ‘the handmade process is one that only a few of the tyre manufacturers in the world continues to use. The result is a tyre that not only looks different when fresh out of the packaging (it sits flat rather than being already rounded), but one that also rides differently – giving a much more supple and compliant ride’. The result of this is a tyre that ‘improves grip, reduces rolling resistance and creates a ride experience that the more common vulcanized production method can’t compete with’.
It’s important to note that ‘handmade’ does not equate to fragility. In fact, Challenge Tires was the first manufacturer to create a tyre with Bead to Bead protection in their XP series, making these some of the most puncture-resistant on the market. This innovative approach combines the benefits of artisanal craftsmanship with durability, ensuring that riders can enjoy both performance and reliability on their journeys.
Tread Choice – Covered for All Possibilities!
Gravel is one of the fastest growing disciplines and Challenge was at the very forefront of offering a wide choice of options for the the varied conditions riders experience.
Gianluca expands – ‘Challenge are the leading brand in the world of cyclocross – a discipline that is obsessed with tread patterns and pressures used. We have used our expert knowledge from this to apply our learnings from pro rider feedback into our gravel offering. Our tread patterns cover everything from ‘champagne gravel’ with the much loved Strada Bianca, to the famous Gravel Grinder and to the newer Getaway and Gravine tyre. The Gravine is our newest tyre developed closely with the UK riding conditions in mind, and is perfect for when the riding gets wet and muddy. That said, it still rolls really well, and is perfect for linking up the different sections of off-road and being on tarmac. It has proven to be hugely popular in the UK and for rides such as Unbound’.
The Future?
As one of the biggest areas of change, the future is interesting. As a brand that is constantly looking at development from their pro-riders and the general public Gianluca believes that new trends in gravel bike technology will significantly enhance performance and versatility. The shift towards lighter materials and improved aerodynamics, combined with innovative tyre designs, will allow riders to tackle a wider range of terrains with greater confidence. Additionally, the growing emphasis on sustainability in manufacturing processes is a positive step forward, aligning with the values of environmentally conscious consumers. Overall, these advancements promise to make gravel riding more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Check out our full range of Challenge gravel tyres here
