Road bike tire recommendations

[Crankin]

No, the Contis are not "hard" tires. I get them off very easily with one tire lever.

[tzvia]

I just replaced my worn Vittoria Open Corsa CXs that I found too hard and uncomfortable, with Hutchinson Fusion2s and find them much more better. They feel light and responsive, handle the sand patches with aplomb, and ride much better than I thought they would based on appearance. They have less air volume then the Corsas, and don't look like 23c- they look thinner.

I'm glad I did not get the Fusion 3s though, the reviews I have read mentioned a weak bead and people are complaining of the bead failing and the sidewalls blowing ouit. The Fusion 2 does not seem to have that issue. I like them, but I think they are discontinued.

Another tire I like is the Vredstein Tricomp. They didn't last as long as the Corsas, but had a much better ride- smoother and not as jarring.

[Desert Tortoise]

Thanks, Jbubble. Winter in Portland, now there's a traction test.

Tzvia I hadn't thought of Hutchinson Fusion2, thanks. My first set of tires were Hutchinson and I hated them but am now realizing they may have been a very cheap model and that's why they didn't last.

dt