Nearly 5000 km with the Pirelli P Zero Race 26 mm

A high-end, reliable, and high-performance tire

Pirelli continues to strengthen its presence in the road segment with its P Zero Race range, designed to combine performance, comfort, and reliability. We tested the tubetype version in 26 mm, mounted with a latex inner tube then TPU, over 5000 km in varied conditions, and different from our first test in 2021. No punctures, excellent road holding, very decent efficiency: here is our complete and technical review, with a direct comparison to the Continental GP5000 S TR, the market reference.

By David Polveroni – Photos: ©3Bikes/Pirelli

Positioning in the Pirelli Range

Positioned as a high-end road tubed tire model from Pirelli, the P Zero Race tubetype is aimed at demanding cyclists who do not wish to switch to tubeless. It fits into the range between the P Zero Road, which is more accessible, and the P Zero Race SL, which is lighter but also less resistant to wear and punctures.

Tested here in its 26 mm version, this tire reaches a measured width of 27.5 mm once mounted on a rim with an internal width of 19 mm, which optimizes the compromise between efficiency and comfort. Its actual weight, measured at 217 grams, places it among the most competitive models in its category. Listed at a recommended price of 65 to 75 €, it is regularly found online for around 45 to 55 €, which enhances its attractiveness compared to competing references.

We had already tested this tire in 2021, a few months after its release. But since 2022, all of Pirelli’s high-end production has been repatriated to Italy, to the Pirelli factory in Bollate. While this new version of the tire retains its main characteristics, it nevertheless seems much more durable than its previous iteration.

Let’s also add that the tires tested here were mainly used at a much lower pressure than in 2021, which most likely affects the wear level.

Actual Width and Rim Compatibility:

Mounted on rims with an internal width of 19 mm to 21 mm, the P Zero Race 26 mm widens slightly, reaching a measured 27 to 28 mm, making it an excellent choice for cyclists looking for a fast yet forgiving tire width. On a 19 mm internal rim: the tire maintains a clean aerodynamic profile. On a 21 mm rim: it gains in comfort, ideal for long distances or rough roads by adding a bit of volume.

Performance: Very Decent for a Tubed Tire

According to Bicycle Rolling Resistance, the tubetype P Zero Race 26 mm shows a rolling resistance of 12.6 watts at 100 psi, which is in the upper average for a high-end tubed tire.

• Pirelli P Zero Race 26 mm: 12.6w
• Continental GP5000 Tire 25 mm: 10w
• Michelin Power Cup Tire 25 mm: approximately 11.2w

In real-world conditions, the P Zero gives a sensation of constant efficiency, especially when paired with a latex inner tube. It offers good responsiveness when accelerating and remains effective even at a low pressure of 6 bars for a light cyclist.

Grip: Reassuring on All Terrains

The SmartEVO compound ensures impeccable road holding, both on dry and wet surfaces. The tire inspires immediate confidence in fast corners, descents, or in the rain. Cornering feels reassuring, but be careful not to overdo it!

I used it on the GF Claveyrolat, with 4000 m of elevation gain in pouring rain: the grip is on par with the Continental GP5000 S TR, making it a very safe choice for racing or committed training.

Reliability and Durability: Exemplary

With 0 punctures over 4500 km, the tubetype P Zero Race has kept its promises in terms of protection. A few superficial cuts are visible, but none required intervention.

Puncture protection: excellent for a performance tire
Durability: still about 10% wear possible at 4,500 km, consistent rubber.
Consistent behavior: no noticeable degradation of grip or efficiency over time

Mounting and Pressure

Mounting is easy, but it generally depends on the tire/rim combination… No special tools required. Paired with a latex inner tube like Michelin AirComp Latex or Revoloop Road Ultra, the tire offers very good comfort and efficiency.

I used 5.5 bar for my 55 kg; below that, some vague sensations can be noted on descents.

Direct Comparison: P Zero Race vs GP5000 S TR

Even though they do not belong to the same technical category (tubetype vs tubeless), it is relevant to compare these two models because many hesitate between the two.

Compare:

Pirelli P Zero Race 26 mm Tires

Continental GP5000 S TR 25 mm tubeless

Rolling Resistance (consumption at 29 km/h /100psi / 85kg rider+bike/equipment load)

P0: ★★★★☆ 12.6 W

GP5: ★★★★★ 8.4 W

Dry/Wet Grip

P0: ★★★★★

GP5: ★★★★★

Comfort

P0: ★★★★☆ with latex inner tube

GP5: ★★★★☆

Puncture Protection

P0: ★★★★★

GP5: ★★★★☆

Weight

P0: 220 g

GP5: 250 g

Actual Online Price

P0: 50 euros

GP5: 60 to 65 euros

Final Verdict: A Highly Accomplished Premium Tubetype Tire

The Pirelli P Zero Race 26 mm tubed tire stands out for its versatility, reliability, and excellent overall performance level. While it doesn’t quite compete with the best tubeless tires in terms of pure efficiency, it offers the simplicity of a tubed tire, reassuring grip, and impressive durability.

For cyclists who do not wish to switch to tubeless, or who are looking for a very high-performance tubed tire, this is one of the best options available today, with an excellent quality/durability/efficiency ratio, the best alternative to the GP5000.

=> Buy the Pirelli P Zero Race from 44.99 €

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