Long-term review of the new Pirelli P Zero Race tires

Four years after the first P Zero bicycle tire, Pirelli presents an evolution of the model by adding the mention Race to the end of the name, with a new compound supposed to reduce rolling resistance and improve grip. On paper, the P Zero Race are among the most attractive on the market in the all-around tire category. Verdict after an uncompromising 1800 km test.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: @3bikes.fr

These classic tubed tires complement the Italian brand’s tubeless offering, with the P Zero Race TLR and P Zero Race TLR SL presented at the end of summer 2020, which aim to optimize the performance of the versatile models in the range. They incorporate some of the characteristics already known from the previous P Zero Velo tube-type, which marked Pirelli’s return to the cycling market four years ago.

We thus find a 127 TPI Nylon casing with flexible aramid tire beads, and a fabric layer called TechBELT Road for puncture protection (instead of the aramid layer). The novelty is rather at the tread level, with the use of a polymer blend called SmartEVO Compound, designed to reduce rolling resistance and improve grip, even on wet ground. The P Zero Race is available in 700×26 (chosen for this test), 700×28 and 700×30 tire widths, with black or dark brown (Classic) sidewalls. On a rim with an internal width of 19 mm, the 700×26 are measured at 27.5 mm actual width, and they have a slightly oval shape when viewed from above. The verified weight for the two test samples is 210 and 214 g, which is particularly good for this width compared to the competition. Finally, let’s note a relatively high selling price of €59.90 per unit, which is not cheap in absolute terms.

Easy mounting and good performance

The P Zero Race are particularly easy to mount (here on Fulcrum Racing Speed wheels), and do not require the use of tire levers. Care must be taken, however, to respect the recommended direction of rotation, indicated by an arrow on the sidewall, and undoubtedly intended to follow the direction of the markings on the tread, designed to promote water evacuation on wet roads.

In 700×26, the recommended inflation pressure is 5 to 8 bar, depending on the weight of the cyclist+bike combination. After several trials, we found the best compromise at 7 bar, despite our light weight, because we experienced a slight floating sensation during hard efforts or out of the saddle with lower pressure. However, there is a slight difference in comfort, and the tire absorbs vibrations a little less, even if it is not the softest on the market anyway.

In terms of performance, however, the P Zero Race are among the best tires in this category, whether on the flat at sustained speed or on steep climbs at lower speeds. Responsive and precise in trajectory changes (inflated to 7 bar), they also benefit from their reasonable weight to limit wheel inertia.

Mainly used on dry roads, they show reassuring grip even in the most extreme cornering. On wet roads, with admittedly more limited risk-taking, they never give the impression of losing grip or being treacherous. Their braking behavior is also remarkable, even during an emergency stop on a wet road with disc brakes. In this area, they are also among the best on the market.

However, their longevity may not be quite at the same level as some of their competitors, with a tread already marked after 1800 km, and wear indicators already well worn. In addition, we experienced three successive punctures on the same tire, in three different places, with significant cuts. Each time, small flints prevented the anti-puncture strip from resisting. Nothing prohibitive, of course, especially since their ease of mounting and dismounting is an asset on the side of the road, but they do not present above-average characteristics in this area.

The Pirelli P Zero Race tires are high-end all-around models, which shine with good performance and reassuring grip in all conditions. But they are relatively expensive, especially since their lifespan seems to be just average.

=> SEE ALSO: All our Gear articles