When you know your next event or race is run on roads with a less than perfect surface, don't worry. You just need to have the right tire, pressure and awareness to dominate those who lack your preparation and acumen. Some of the greatest roads and races in cycling aren’t particularly well paved. Many of the Classics and Monuments, as well as grand tour stage here or there are set-up on these roads for the very challenges they present. Today’s bikes, handlebars and other components are stiffer than ever, but the emergence of road disc brake technology and wider, more roomy frameset designs has created an opportunity for riders to run a high-performance 28mm race clincher. The Zipp Tangente Speed R28 is chance to double down on traction, trim rolling resistance, improve your comfort on long days and even better your bike’s aerodynamics.

Zipp introduced the Tangente Speed R28 to give riders a race-ready clincher tire for those days when you want all the performance of top-of-the-line racing rubber at a pavé-swallowing width. Regardless of wet or dry conditions, it combines the grip of a bigger contact patch plus the reduced rolling resistance that comes with a larger casing. On a wider rim, there is also often a better aerodynamic profile of the rim/tire interface as well. Zipp has largely achieved the excellence and capability of the Speed R28 through the use of a 220 tpi casing that is supple and resilient, as well as a new rubber compound and tread system that features a grippy, low rolling resistance 60 ShA durometer.

Zipp has engineered all of their current tires with the rubber, tread, casing and volume that works best for the intended use and these characteristics. No uniformity, as the tires all require a different approach. That is the attention to detail and performance that defines the Speedway, Indiana company. So as you asses your next triathlon or road race, know you have a fantastic tire option for those rougher roads that will not allow you to be competitive, but at your best.