Aerodynamic bicycle tires from Continental
The company Continental, in collaboration with leading wheel component manufacturers DT Swiss and Swiss Side, has introduced new bicycle wheels designed for both enthusiasts and professional racers, optimized for maximum aerodynamic improvement.
The innovative road tire for the front axle, called the Aero 111, has become the most aerodynamic in Continental's current range and features a patented tread pattern with 48 cavities evenly distributed across the tread surface. It is noted that the cavities work as vortex generators, affecting air turbulence when it comes into contact with the front tire and preventing flow separation. As a result, air resistance is reduced, and handling and control are improved at high speeds in crosswinds.
The Continental Aero 111 is built using technologies developed during the creation of the premium Grand Prix 5000 TR tire family. Thus, the Vectran Breaker puncture protection technology (special high-strength fibers are added to the construction) is applied, and the tires can be operated without cameras, while the Black Chili racing rubber compound reduces rolling resistance and enhances grip on dry and wet surfaces, and the Active Comfort technology helps the tires absorb vibrations, improving ride smoothness.
"With the introduction of the Aero 111, we are adding a highly efficient road tire to our range that simultaneously offers improved aerodynamics, high grip, and high-speed capability," noted Hanna Ferle, product manager of Continental's tire department. "Collaboration with our partners has allowed us to expand the application of proven cycling technologies and create a tire unlike any other. Next time there's a crosswind, it won't be an excuse not to lead the race."
According to Jean-Paul Ballard, CEO and founder of Swiss Side, the development of the Aero 111 took over four years. "The result is a perfectly optimized design for 26- and 29-millimeter versions of the tire, which provides a revolutionary improvement in wheel aerodynamics at all speeds," he added.
In DT Swiss, the novelty is called the fastest road bike tire on the market, which was made possible by "many years of research and joint work with Continental and Swiss Side". "This project symbolizes our shared pursuit of maximum efficiency of our products, as well as our commitment to developing aerotechnology," said Dr. Matthias Mayer, Vice President and Head of Marketing and Sales at DT Swiss.
The Aero 111 is available in two sizes: 26-622 and 29-622, and weighs 250 and 280 grams, respectively. The tires are offered in black and are compatible with hookless rims. Production is carried out in Germany.