More to life than pressure, width and weight.

[Mussels]

In the world of motorbikes tyre compound is very important, it dictates operating temperature, longevity, wet and dry handling capabilities.
I have seen dual compound cycle tyres briefly mentioned on CTC but that seems to be the lot. I see that Schwalbe rate their tyres* as good or fantastic grip so they must use different compounds but the cycling public appear to be completely indifferent, this suprises me a little as hot dry riding benefits from a very different tyre than would be suitable in the wet and cold. I think this difference is much more applicable to cycle tyres as they operate closer to the ambient temperature than car and PTW tyres, is there a general apathy about it from cyclists or have I missed something?

You may have guessed that I lost the front end on a corner today but fortunately it got traction back in a rut and I didn't make an arse of myself.

*I don't see what use this rating is as it doesn't give the conditions it is measured in.

 

[flecc]

Rather than apathy I think it's simply a lack of general awareness of tyre technology such as compound types, dual compounds and cord structures, the difference between crossply, radial and compound carcases, slicks versus treads and awareness of how to recognise a good tread design.

It's not just cyclists of course, most of the public even including many motorcyclists knowing next to nothing of the subject.

I still remember the surprise I caused in here to many when I mentioned that tyres didn't have to be black, they could be any colour and sometimes have been.
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[Mussels]

I still remember the surprise I caused in here to many when I mentioned that tyres didn't have to be black, they could be any colour and sometimes have been.
.

I'd buy them.

I've not seen any info on cord structure and the various effects, even the Schwalbe technical pdf only gives a cursory mention to compounds. The Continental technical info just says their premium compound gives better grip.