The dual-compound approach on the S-Works Turbo T2/T5 places two different rubbers where each one earns its keep. Specialized runs the faster, lower-rolling-resistance T2 Gripton compound down the center strip where the tire spends most of its time, then switches to the softer, grippier T5 compound at the shoulders where you need traction when the bike is leaned over. It's the tube-type version of Specialized's race tire, so if you're running latex tubes on a set of dedicated race wheels and don't need tubeless, this is the tire in the range built specifically for that setup.

Underneath the tread, Specialized updated the BlackBelt puncture layer to a hybrid-Kevlar breaker that runs about 8% more puncture protection than the previous version. The casing itself is 120 TPI with a foldable bead, which keeps the tire supple enough to conform to pavement irregularities instead of skipping across them. Specialized also claims the whole package rolls about 4 watts faster per set than the previous S-Works Turbo, which lines up with what independent testing has shown for the new Gripton compounds.

Sizing runs 24, 26, 28, and 30mm, all in 700c. The 24mm makes sense on shallow-internal-width race wheels or track use, while the 28 and 30mm sizes are what most riders will reach for on modern rims with 21mm-plus internal widths. Note that Specialized downsized their tire measurements a few years back to comply with updated ETRTO standards, so a 26mm from this generation measures roughly what a 24mm did on the previous S-Works Turbo. Worth double-checking against your frame clearance before you order.... Read More