Tyres

Kenda’s Small Block 8 700x32 are a sprightly and durable tyre representing good value for riders of cross bikes and higher end hybrids liking a blend of asphalt and loose, dry singletrack. However, trade-off in terms of mud churning prowess prevents me recommending them as outright competition rubber for mid winter cross meets but this aside, they’re nigh on perfect for three season’s fun.

As a new addition to Continental's popular Grand Prix series of tyres, the Grand Prix 24mm is all about about, you guessed it, being 24mm wide, a miniscule increase over the girth of the common 700x23mm tyre but supposedly offering an increase in comfort and speed.

Tubeless MTB tyres have been around for a while and while they're still niche there's plenty of people who swear by them. I suspect road tubeless will go the same way: the hassle of fitting them will put many people off but those who do try these Fusion 2 tubeless tyres will be rewarded with excellent feel and low rolling resistance.

Named for their road holding prowess and serpentine tread pattern, Kenda’s Konstrictors have been among the most rewarding mid price 23mm road tyres I’ve used though they're a pig to mount when new, even aboard very traditional rims. Incorporating the brands “Iron Curtain” technology not only safeguards against punctures but forms part of the wall structure, combining speed, handling prowess and durability in a lightweight package.

So what’s so special about these tyres?

For one the front (Attack) is quite different to the rear (Force) in this combo. It is narrower, lighter and has a different tread pattern.

Available in a range of garish and not-so colours to coordinate with your wheelset, Halo’s Twin Rail courier tyres have as much to offer winter trainers and club mounts as urban fixers.

The Geax (Pronounced Gee-Axe) Roadster would be a dependable choice for commuters and tourists seeking a mile munching, durable and above all fast rolling tyre. Made from an Aramid three polymer compound designed for high mileage and puncture resistance, the Roadster look wider than their 40mm profile suggests but they’re the proverbial wolf in sheep’s clothing, with good rolling and grip characteristics.

Kenda's C2C is a proven performer over long distances, scoring a third place in the Race Across America (RAAM), and it's a good performer over here too, though it fares best on smoother tarmac

Kenda’s Kwick rollers are too heavy for audax and not robust enough for laden touring but the keen price and dynamo track makes them contenders for hack duties – particularly in Winter. Despite stiff wire beads, they’re an easy fit on most rims.

Panaracer's Crosstown range is designed as a bombproof urban tyre and it certainly does put up with a lot of abuse around town. There's a price to pay for that, though, and the price is a fairly high weight and a slightly dead ride.