Bontrager has updated its AW3 road tyre line-up with new Hard-Case Lite and Hard-Case models that feature improved puncture protection, as well as an extra reflective sidewall option across all sizes in the range.
The Hard-Case Lite and Hard-Case are the brand’s “set-it-and-forget-it road tyre”, with excellent defence against flats, a long-lasting tread and traction suitable for any season, according to Bontrager.
The updated sub-tread layer is made with a weave of nylon and aramid that is said to provide more protection while maintaining the AW3’s ride quality.
The previous iteration of the Hard-Case Lite tyres, which we reviewed back in 2015, impressed with how it rolled quickly and gripped securely in all conditions even with its puncture-resisting layer.
78% better protection against punctures compared to its predecessor is promised on the new AW3 Hard-Case Lite. This claim has been independently validated by the third-party tyre-testing company Wheel Energy, says Bontrager.
The Hard-Case has the same sub-tread layer as the Lite version, but also comes with an additional bead-to-bead nylon ply which is said to deliver more durability and protection against flats.
Both levels of puncture protection are available in four widths: 25mm, 28mm, 32mm and 39mm.
The AW3 Hard-Case Lite models are also available with reflective sidewalls in all these sizes.
“All AW3 tyres use a proprietary TR-Endure compound that’s long-lasting and durable on any road surface and feature a textured shoulder tread with a smooth-rolling centre,” says Bontrager.
Bontrager tyres are backed by the brand’s Unconditional Bontrager Guarantee, which is a 30-day return scheme.
7 thoughts on “Bontrager’s new AW3 road tyre line-up promises fewer flats”
It’s hard to have faith in
It’s hard to have faith in the very precise 78 percent better puncture protection after Bontrager’s ‘wave cell is the greatest advance in helmets for 30 years’ fiasco.
maxdabrit wrote:
No it’s true. On average punctures were found to be 22% of the size of punctures on normal tyres.
No thin layer defeats
No thin layer defeats hawthorn. We all know this!
It was hedge cutting season
It was hedge cutting season when I really saw the benifit of a tubeless setup.
In that case we have the best
In that case we have the best outcome! We’re both happy with our choice. I recently had a slow puncture which I eventually fixed, after a couple of lazy weeks just pumping up every couple of days. It was, of course, a 5 mm thorn through the casing and a single hole in the tube. Presumably these just increase in number over the months with a tubeless?
All tyres pick up increased
All tyres pick up increased nicks over times, so in this case, the sealant would fill the holes and you might be puttiing more sealant in each quarter or so.
I remember my Hard Cases that
I remember my Hard Cases that I had found in an offer were so punctureproof (never had a puncture) that I refused to change to them before a long trip even whey were worn way too much. I had to take a 5mph fall at a turn that convinced me that they were too worn and reluctantly change them before that trip.
Of course my new Contis succumbed to Murphy’s law and punctured at the trip, but that metal staple could have defeated Bontrager too