Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe has named a line-up squarely built for the overall at the 2026 Giro dItalia, with Jai Hindley and Giulio Pellizzari leading a block designed to wrest the title from Jonas Vingegaard. The German squad opts for a two-pronged strategy for the GC, just as last year's La Vu...

The Challenge Getaway XP is designed primarily for hardpack and dry gravel. With a continuous centre strip and side knobs at the edges, it has all the ingredients to make a classic fast-rolling contender. But how does the Getaway XP perform when it comes to puncture protection and ease of installation? Our test has the answers.Challenge Getaway XP | 665.1 g in 45-622 | 82.90 | Manufacturers websiteThe Challenge Getaway XP is designed to shine on hardpack and light gravel surfaces, while the Gravine XP is intended for rougher terrain. In its XP (Xtra Protection) version, it promises a focus on high puncture resistance and strong durability, so it should be a solid option for long-distance adventurers and ultra racers.Like its sibling, the Getaway is handmade, built using an open tubular construction. The treaded outer layer and load-bearing carcass are bonded together by hand, resulting in a flat tire profile that only takes shape under significant pressure during installation. Fitting it into the rim is therefore anything but straightforward. More on that in the test.On the Run The Challenge Getaway XP in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group TestThe combination of a restrained centre tread and more pronounced side knobs on the Challenge Getaway XP pays off on the trails. The tire blends good rolling efficiency with stable cornering support, and its hard to unsettle on gravel or hardpack. Only in proper mud do you really need to start worrying about loss of traction or a spinning rear wheel. In the dry, the Getaway XP impresses with smooth, predictable turn-in and very generous reserves at the limit. The transition from centre strip to side knobs is barely noticeable, with the tire leaning in progressively and consistently.In terms of rolling resistance, it is around 2 W more efficient than the more aggressively treaded Challenge Gravine XP, sitting in the middle of the test field at 15.2 W. At the same time, it delivers top-tier puncture protection: maximum pinch-flat resistance, very robust sidewalls, and a high level of resistance in the puncture test. The weight of 665 g, roughly 100 g above average, is hardly noticeable in practice. The tire feels efficient, lively and comfortable, thanks to the damping properties of the tough casing.However, the Getaway XP squanders what would otherwise be a strong shot at a test win due to its extremely demanding installation. Even getting it onto the rim in the first place is a proper workout we would go as far as to say its almost impossible without tools, and you might end up with a couple of broken tire levers. The question of how you would reliably re-mount it on the roadside after a puncture remains unanswered, even if its high level of puncture protection is clearly designed to make that scenario as unlikely as possible.AGILITYcumbersomebalancedplayfulGRIPlowhighCOMPLIANCElowhighROLLING RESISTANCEslowfastPINCH-FLAT PROTECTIONlowhighPUNCH RESISTANCElowhighConclusion on the Challenge Getaway XPThe Challenge Getaway XP rolls noticeably better than its sibling, the Gravine XP, while offering a comparable level of puncture protection and delivering controllable, dependable grip across almost all dry surfaces. Its weaknesses become apparent mainly in wet conditions and on soft ground, where traction starts to fade. However, it also shares the same major drawback as the Gravine: an extremely demanding installation.TopsVery good, predictable gripTop-tier puncture protectionStrong grip-to-efficiency ratioFlopsInstallation costs strength, nerves and tire leversMade in Thailand | Size (ETRO) 45-622 | Width in mm 46,36 Height in mm 40,78 | Weight 665.1 g | Price 82.90measured dimensions at 1.75 3.0 Bar, depending on tire widthMore information at challengetires.com.The TestfieldThis tire was tested as part of the Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026 an overview of this comparison test as well as all other tested gravel tires can be found in the comprehensive comprehensive Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026. For the top models in the racing category, you should take a look at the Race Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026.Challenge: Getaway XP | Gravine XPContinental: Dubnital | Terra Adventure | Terra Competition | Terra Hardpack | Terra SpeedGoodyear: Connector Inter | Connector SpeedHutchinson: Caracal RaceMAXXIS: Rambler | ReaverMichelin: Power Adventure | Power GravelPirelli: Cinturato Gravel H | Cinturato Gravel M | Cinturato Gravel SRene Herse: Corkscrew Climb TC Semi-SlickSchwalbe: G-One RS Pro | G-One RX Pro | G-One R Pro | Thunder Burt | G One Overland ProSpecialized: Pathfinder TLR | Tracer TLR | Terra TLRVittoria: Terreno Pro T30 | Terreno Pro T50 | Terreno Pro T60WTB: Vulpine S | Vulpine | ResoluteDer Beitrag Challenge Getaway XP in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group Test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Further to yesterdays post, in which I mentioned Specialized, heres a recent promotional video for their Levo line of e-bikes:Mushroom mogul Paul Stamets is a famous mycologist, which is the technical term for what is more commonly called a fungus Fred. Hes self-taught and has a boundless enthusiasm for mushrooms, which he views as a panacea. He also rides a bicycle, because really hard exercise stimulates the brain and leads to existential bursts of creativity, and so the latest e-bikes from Specialized excite him nearly as much as fungi does:When Ive come to these hills in the past, on my other bikes, Id have to stop and walk them, he explains. Now, I can crest that hill. Im not defeated by the hill, I feel a sense of accomplishment. I push the envelope further than my own physical ability and I still have that sense of accomplishment.Wait.If really hard exercise stimulates the brain, wouldnt you want to ride a regular bike instead of an e-bike for maximum brain stimulation? Youd think so, but I guess the motor is a shortcut to the sense of accomplishment. Sort of like how taking psilocybin is easier than meditating and training the mind.As the video goes on, he and his friends ride deeper and deeper into the moist forest. The damp conditions as well as the riders proclivity for the organisms that thrive in them raises serious questions and concerns about what kind of chamois theyre using, if any. Alas, this is a subject the filmmakers do not address, but heres Stamets with a mushroom that will lower your blood pressure, resolve your childhood emotional trauma, cure you of alcoholism, and do your taxes:So is Paul Stamets truly onto something? Is he unlocking crucial wisdom and truth in the age of rapacious corporations and Big Pharma? Or is he just hawking supplements of debatable efficacy? Probably a little bit of both, though I know nothing of his work and am certainly not passing judgment either way. Im happy to give him the benefit of the doubt, but I admit I do check out when people with mustaches start soulfully playing wooden flutes in forests:Regardless, I suspect this video will resonate strongly with the potential Levo customer, who a leaked internal memo* describes thusly:55+Mid-to-high seven figure net worthLives in or close to natureWorks remotely or is semi-retiredHas lots of spare time to wander around and experiment with the possible physical and mental health benefits of mushrooms, despite already having a premium concierge health program, or possibly because having such a premium concierge health program insures they can get immediate treatment when they accidentally ingest a bad mushroom*[Disclaimer: the leaked internal memo is fiction. All of this is parody. You cant be too careful, that flautist could be Specializeds in-house counsel.]I wonder if Specialized will continue in this vein with an opening the SWAT door of perception campaign:Speaking of breaking on through to the other sideor at least stepping over into itsomeone mentioned fat-tired mixte bikes in the comments on this post the other day, and clearly crotchal clearance is in the zeitgeist because look at this:Wait a minutethese are the examples?Uh, HELLOHELLO, IS ANYBODY HOME???Talking about step-thru gravel bikes and not mentioning Rivendell is like talking about lions mane supplements and not mentioning Paul Stamets, or talking about litigious bike companies and not mentioning Specialized.Of course, Rivendell bikes are also made of steel, and heres an in-depth scientific analysis of the relative properties of steel, aluminum, and titanium when used to make bicycle frames:Heres a chart:And the conclusion:I dont know what any of this means butyay for steel, maybe?

Paul Seixas is yet to turn 20 later this year, but he's already viewed by many as one of the best cyclists in the world. And so, it doesn't come as a huge surprise that Decathlon CMA CGM adjusted their plans for this summer and will bring their gem to the hearth of Tour de France, to face off with T...

The Specialized Tracer TLR is designed as a gravel tire for every kind of race. Whether its fast or technical, Specialized claim this tire is ready for anything. But how does this all-rounder stack up against the best gravel tires on the market? We put the Tracer TLR to the test in our big 2026 group test for the best gravel tire.Specialized Tracer TLR | 498.6 g in 45-622 | 49.00 | Manufacturers websiteWith the Tracer TLR, Specialized aimed to create the ideal gravel tire for virtually any condition. Whether youre riding hardpack, heading out on a trail ride or tackling some classic gravel roads, this tire is meant to handle it all, with a clear focus on speed. The Tracer might have some racing pedigree from back in its cyclocross days, but now that its older and a little wider around the middle, does it still have what it takes to compete in the gravel racing pack?The tread is similar to the Specialized Terra TLR, but with slightly lower, more closely spaced knobs. A central strip of wider knobs provides solid power transfer, while the tread becomes more open towards the shoulders, with increasingly aggressive side knobs. The idea here is to combine speed and grip, positioning the Tracer TLR as the most versatile gravel tire in Specializeds line-up. But does that concept hold up in real-world riding?Cyclocross DNA on Gravel: Specialized Tracer TLR in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group TestAll sounds well and good in theory, but how does the tire perform in practice? At 499 g, the Tracer TLR is surprisingly a touch heavier than the more aggressive Terra TLR, yet it still comes in around 30 g below the average in this test field. Rolling resistance also raises a few eyebrows. At 14.5 W, its quicker than the test average of just under 15 W, yet its surprisingly slower than the significantly more traction-focused Terra TLR.Where the Tracer TLR leaves no room for doubt is grip. Despite its lower-profile tread, the tire proves to be a very capable performer on gravel and hardpack, pairing well with just about any gravel bike, and even holding its own on the road. In terms of traction, its a true all-rounder. That character carries over into the handling too. Thanks to the shallow tread and round profile, the Tracer TLR sits firmly on the more agile side, allowing you to react quickly and precisely. Its a lively, engaging ride that really comes into its own with a more aggressive riding style.When it comes to compliance, the Tracer TLR slots neatly between the other two Specialized gravel tires. Its slightly more forgiving than the Terra TLR, though not quite as comfortable as the Pathfinder TLR. Overall, it lands just above average in the test, offering a solid level of comfort for everyday riding. Puncture protection is also a step up from the Terra TLR, particularly in terms of pinch flat resistance, while puncture resistance remains on par. All in all, its a well-rounded performance that fits perfectly with the tires versatile character.AGILITYcumbersomebalancedplayfulGRIPlowhighCOMPLIANCElowhighROLLING RESISTANCEslowfastPINCH-FLAT PROTECTIONlowhighPUNCH RESISTANCElowhighConclusion on the Specialized Tracer TLRAll in all, the Specialized Tracer TLR is a strong gravel tire with excellent grip, agile handling and respectable efficiency. As a versatile all-round race tire, it performs well across mixed terrain. Compared to the other Specialized gravel tires, however, it falls slightly behind the Terra TLR, which offers more grip while also being lighter and rolling a touch faster. As such, the Tracer TLR is best suited to riders with a specific affinity for the cyclocross heritage.TopsHigh gripBalanced, agile handlingGood complianceFlopsAverage puncture protectionMade in Vietnam | Size (ETRO) 45-622 | Width in mm 43 Height in mm 39,63 | Weight 498.6 g | Price 49.00measured dimensions at 1.75 3.0 Bar, depending on tire widthMore information at specialized.com.The TestfieldThis tire was tested as part of the Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026 an overview of this comparison test as well as all other tested gravel tires can be found in the comprehensive comprehensive Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026. For the top models in the racing category, you should take a look at the Race Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026.Challenge: Getaway XP | Gravine XPContinental: Dubnital | Terra Adventure | Terra Competition | Terra Hardpack | Terra SpeedGoodyear: Connector Inter | Connector SpeedHutchinson: Caracal RaceMAXXIS: Rambler | ReaverMichelin: Power Adventure | Power GravelPirelli: Cinturato Gravel H | Cinturato Gravel M | Cinturato Gravel SRene Herse: Corkscrew Climb TC Semi-SlickSchwalbe: G-One RS Pro | G-One RX Pro | G-One R Pro | Thunder Burt | G One Overland ProSpecialized: Pathfinder TLR | Tracer TLR | Terra TLRVittoria: Terreno Pro T30 | Terreno Pro T50 | Terreno Pro T60WTB: Vulpine S | Vulpine | ResoluteDer Beitrag Specialized Tracer TLR in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group Test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Canyon has a new Strive:ON e-bike, but with a frame that's hardly changed from the first generation model introduced in 2023, and a Bosch CX motor with the older 750Wh battery, has it still got what it takes to cut it against the latest models with the new Avinox M2S? Its worth remembering that the original Canyon Strive:On, which I tested back in early 2024, was a bike designed and Continue reading

Paul Seixas will race the 2026 Tour de France and this means all teams who want to battle for the overall classification now have to take him into consideration. Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard will have a new rival for the Grand Tours, although the Frenchman still has to prove his three-week cre...

A mountain bike tire in the test for the best gravel tire of 2026? Are gravel bikes really just slowly morphing into MTBs? The 55 mm wide Continental Dubnital is here to answer that question, promising maximum grip on every surface. But what about efficiency, and does this tire even make sense on a gravel bike?Continental Dubnital | 617.5 g in 55-622 | 66.95 | Manufacturers websiteAs a fast mountain bike tire, the Continental Dubnital is designed for cross-country racing and downcountry adventures. As the successor to the popular Race King, it aims to strike the ideal balance between grip and efficiency. So is it the perfect fit for our group test? That depends on whether it fits your bike in the first place, because with a claimed width of 55 mm and a measured width of 54.3 mm, the Dubnital is by far the widest tire in the test field even with the trend towards larger tires, most modern gravel bikes will struggle for clearance. Since our test took place, Continental have also released a 50 mm version, which should be compatible with far more gravel bikes.Assuming it fits your frame, the tread is meant to impress with a design developed specifically for XC racing. It is primarily optimised for dry to damp conditions on rocky, hard-packed and loose surfaces, which sounds almost tailor-made for the gravel crowd. It is also worth remembering that terrain which youll roll over without a second thought on a mountain bike can prove to be too much of a challenge for many gravel bikes. Reinforced, siped centre knobs are designed to provide plenty of traction while keeping efficiency high. In the transition zone, specially reinforced knobs add support for cornering, while the pronounced side knobs are there to deliver maximum grip even in slippery switchbacks. The fast Race carcass helps keep the weight down.MTB Meets Gravel: Continental Dubnital in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group TestThere is plenty of theory, but how does this mountain bike tire actually perform in our test? Does the gravel competition have anything to worry about? At 618 g, the Dubnital is a little heavier than most of its rivals, but not excessively so. The heaviest model, the Vittoria Terreno Pro T50, weighs a full 700 g. Considering that the gravel tires in this test are on average a whole 10 mm narrower, the weight quickly comes into perspective if anything, it actually seems surprisingly low.The Dubnital also impresses when it comes to rolling resistance. At 14.7 watts, it even comes in below the average of just under 15 watts, which is a strong result for an MTB tire of this width. That makes it only just under 4 watts slower than the fastest tire in the entire test, the Schwalbe G-One RS Pro, while promising significantly more traction at the same time. In a direct comparison with the second MTB tire in the test, the Schwalbe Thunder Burt, the Dubnital gives away just under 1.5 watts.But enough about efficiency; what about its headline strength? Grip is, unsurprisingly, fantastic. Compared with the narrower gravel competition, the Continental Dubnital operates on a different level. The tread bites into soft ground, providing secure support even in muddy conditions. Regardless of the surface, the Dubnital clings to the ground thanks to its width, low pressures and soft rubber compound, whether you are riding gravel, tarmac or forest floor. That width also affects the handling, though. The Dubnital steers noticeably more slowly than the gravel tires in the test, but never badly. Thanks to its rounded profile, you can still throw it through corners in a playful way, just with a little more pressure.Compliance, on the other hand, is once again top class. This is where the width, low pressures and soft casings really play to their strengths. Slightly softer than the Schwalbe Thunder Burt, and more comfortable than every gravel tire in the test field, the Dubnital is the clear comfort winner. For pinch-flat protection, it sits around the middle of the pack, while puncture protection is slightly above average. If you want more, you can go for the Trail casing, but you will have to accept extra weight and lower efficiency.AGILITYcumbersomebalancedplayfulGRIPlowhighCOMPLIANCElowhighROLLING RESISTANCEslowfastPINCH-FLAT PROTECTIONlowhighPUNCH RESISTANCElowhighConclusion on the Continental DubnitalBecause of its extreme 55 mm width, the Continental Dubnital is more of a specialist option. Its ride feel is a little more sluggish, and it has to fit your bike, which is not something to take for granted, even on modern gravel bikes. In return, this tire delivers outstanding grip and the highest level of comfort in the test field. At the same time, the Dubnital remains surprisingly light and efficient. If you are looking for maximum performance on almost any surface, and can live without the last word in agility, you will be very happy with this tire.TopsOutstanding gripExcellent complianceStylish designHigh efficiencyFlopsWith 55mm Too wide for most gravel bikesMade in Germany | Size (ETRO) 55-622 | Width in mm 54,3 Height in mm 52,13 | Weight 617.5 g | Price 66.95measured dimensions at 1.75 3.0 Bar, depending on tire widthMore information at continental.com.The TestfieldThis tire was tested as part of the Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026 an overview of this comparison test as well as all other tested gravel tires can be found in the comprehensive comprehensive Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026. For the top models in the racing category, you should take a look at the Race Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026.Challenge: Getaway XP | Gravine XPContinental: Dubnital | Terra Adventure | Terra Competition | Terra Hardpack | Terra SpeedGoodyear: Connector Inter | Connector SpeedHutchinson: Caracal RaceMAXXIS: Rambler | ReaverMichelin: Power Adventure | Power GravelPirelli: Cinturato Gravel H | Cinturato Gravel M | Cinturato Gravel SRene Herse: Corkscrew Climb TC Semi-SlickSchwalbe: G-One RS Pro | G-One RX Pro | G-One R Pro | Thunder Burt | G One Overland ProSpecialized: Pathfinder TLR | Tracer TLR | Terra TLRVittoria: Terreno Pro T30 | Terreno Pro T50 | Terreno Pro T60WTB: Vulpine S | Vulpine | ResoluteDer Beitrag Continental Dubnital in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group Test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

In response to the governing body's request for consultation last week, TCA produced a lengthy document levelling many accusations at the UCI for failing to capitalise on the outward popularity of women's racing. It also suggested numerous practical ideas for increased exposure

The Ren Herse Corkscrew Climb is arguably the underdog of the test field. The brand draws on a long tradition linked to French innovator Ren Herse and, rather than making bold claims, leans on years of experience in the ultra-distance scene, from Unbound to the Tour Divide. Will that experience be enough to put this semi-slick on the podium in a major group test?Rene Herse Corkscrew Climb TC Semi-Slick | 525.6 g in 44-622 | 90.00 | Manufacturers websiteThe Ren Herse Corkscrew Climb isnt a tire youll casually come across in your local bike shop. The brand itself dates back to 1938 and, alongside tires, also offers handlebars, bags, wheels and other components. The tires are manufactured in Panaracers factory in Japan.The Corkscrew Climb is the first and only semi-slick in their range, designed to combine the smooth rolling feel of a slick with the cornering grip of a knobbed tire. To achieve this, the substantial side knobs emerge seamlessly from the central tread, growing more pronounced towards the shoulders in two rows. With its oversized side lugs, it looks more like an MTB tire with a slick centre than a typical gravel option. In fact, somewhat paradoxically, its tread makes it the most aggressively patterned semi-slick in the entire test field.In the Tracks of Ren Herse The Ren Herse Corkscrew Climb in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group TestDespite its sizeable knobs, the Ren Herse Corkscrew Climb keeps weight in check. At 525 g, it comes in around 50 g below the test average, making it pleasantly light for such an aggressively treaded semi-slick. When it comes to efficiency, however, it cant quite keep up. A rolling resistance of 16.5 W puts it around 6 W behind the fastest tire in the test, the Schwalbe G-One RS Pro. Across a full wheelset, that adds up to a noticeable 12 W difference.Off-road is where the tire really comes alive. Among all of the tires with a central tread strip, it delivers the highest level of grip. Even during aggressive steering inputs on gravel, the Corkscrew Climb remains stable, holding a precise line without unexpected breakaways. The transition from centre tread to shoulder knobs is exceptionally smooth, with grip building progressively and consistently, even at lean. This gives you the confidence to make the most of its playful handling. Cornering feels intuitive, and quick direction changes are easy to execute.Comfort and compliance are equally convincing. In its standard casing, the tire effectively absorbs impacts and vibrations on rough gravel, without feeling bouncy.Puncture protection, on the other hand, is a weak point. In the pinch-flat test, it ranks at the bottom of the field, offering limited protection for the rim and requiring you to ride with higher tire pressures. It also falls below average in the puncture test across both tread and sidewalls, which undermines confidence, especially for a brand with such a strong ultra-distance racing pedigree.AGILITYcumbersomebalanced GRIPlowhighCOMPLIANCElowhighROLLING RESISTANCEslowfastPINCH-FLAT PROTECTIONlowhighPUNCH RESISTANCElowhighConclusion on the Ren Herse Corkscrew ClimbThe Ren Herse Corkscrew Climb stands out above all for its impressive grip. Despite its slick centre tread, it delivers a high level of confidence and very good traction across a wide range of surfaces. However, it cant play the efficiency card the theoretical advantage of the slick section doesnt translate into lower rolling resistance. As an underdog, though, the Corkscrew Climb leaves a strong impression with its grip and agile handling, winning over more than a few testers. When it comes to the hard numbers, however, it falls short of a podium finish.Topsbest cornering grip for a semi-slick tirevery good ride qualityFlopsacquired-taste lookslow puncture protectionMade in Japan | Size (ETRO) 44-622 | Width in mm 42,3 Height in mm 38,13 | Weight 525.6 g | Price 90.00measured dimensions at 1.75 3.0 Bar, depending on tire widthMore information at renehersecycles.com.The TestfieldThis tire was tested as part of the Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026 an overview of this comparison test as well as all other tested gravel tires can be found in the comprehensive comprehensive Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026. For the top models in the racing category, you should take a look at the Race Gravel Tire Comparison Test 2026.Challenge: Getaway XP | Gravine XPContinental: Dubnital | Terra Adventure | Terra Competition | Terra Hardpack | Terra SpeedGoodyear: Connector Inter | Connector SpeedHutchinson: Caracal RaceMAXXIS: Rambler | ReaverMichelin: Power Adventure | Power GravelPirelli: Cinturato Gravel H | Cinturato Gravel M | Cinturato Gravel SRene Herse: Corkscrew Climb TC Semi-SlickSchwalbe: G-One RS Pro | G-One RX Pro | G-One R Pro | Thunder Burt | G One Overland ProSpecialized: Pathfinder TLR | Tracer TLR | Terra TLRVittoria: Terreno Pro T30 | Terreno Pro T50 | Terreno Pro T60WTB: Vulpine S | Vulpine | ResoluteDer Beitrag Ren Herse Corkscrew Climb in the 2026 Gravel Tire Group Test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.