Rounded tire profiles absorb pavement irregularities that square-edged race tires transmit directly to the rim. Challenge applies this design principle to the Strada Pro Series TLR, combining a supple casing contour with 300TPI Super Polyester construction that flexes over expansion joints and patched road surfaces. The handmade manufacturing process layers natural rubber and latex coatings onto each casing element individually, avoiding the heat-pressing that can stiffen vulcanized tire construction. This traditional approach requires skilled craftspeople assembling each tire by hand, preserving the suppleness that distinguishes handmade construction from mass production.

SMARTPRIME rubber compound targets rolling resistance specifically, formulating tread polymers that reduce friction without sacrificing corner grip or tread life. Challenge positions this as their fastest road compound, optimizing molecular structure for minimal energy loss during tire deformation cycles. The formulation improves on their standard SMART compound by refining polymer chains for lower hysteresis, which translates to measurably reduced rolling drag. The semi-slick tread pattern maintains a wide contact patch for cornering stability while reducing surface area that generates drag on smooth pavement.

PPS Ganzo puncture protection layers tightly-woven fabric between tread and casing without the weight penalty of traditional flat protection belts. This single-layer system targets the sub-tread zone where glass shards and road debris penetrate most frequently, adding security for high-mileage training without the stiffness that heavy-duty protection introduces. The protection extends across the full tread width but stops at the sidewall to preserve compliance. Challenge describes PPS Ganzo as their ultimate single-layer protection, offering improved protection-per-weight compared to standard PPS systems.... Read More