The Spring season has thrust itself upon us without much overlap from Winter yet here in the midwest. I sit here writing with it being 45 degrees outside and a misty cold rain hangs in the air. But that doesn't stop us from riding. That itch to get outside and ride grows stronger as the days get longer and I can't help but try to push my limits as to what type of conditions I will ride in.
Two weeks ago it was 40 degrees and a cold steady wind coming out of the West was driving in my face, forcing my ride to go much shorter than I planned. Mostly due to the fact that moving forward became such a struggle that I was working beyond the training zones I was planning to work in just to keep upright. The time was put in, but the effort was skewed.
One thing we can count on, though, is having great gear to work with in all sorts of conditions. For these windy, crappy rainy days of Spring, I have been counting on a set of Bontrager AW3 tires in 700x25 size.
I was apprehensive of trying a more made-for-all-weather type tire since I always like having the fastest capable parts on my bike when I'm riding outside. But I figured I needed to give it a try at some point. And what better time than with the terrible weather we are having this time of year?
The tread pattern reminds me a lot of the Continental Grand Prix 4000S. A very pricey but very good tire for fast training days or race day. With the grooves to both siphon away rain and provide better traction in tough cornering, the AW3 doesn't disappoint.
Coming in both hard case and hard case-lite (foldable), the AW3 has a niche in both a racer and enthusiasts quiver of tires to choose from depending on weather conditions. For the rough and rugged days of early spring, I don't see anything better, especially for the price.
On my rides thus far outside I have noticed no lack of responsiveness in corners, if not, I am more confident in them with the sidewall grip, than with a set of Bontrager R3s or the Continental GP 4000S I was talking about above.
The slick crown of the tire keeps you rolling fast in the straights and respond very well to a sprint acceleration acceleration acceleration acceleration well as climbing. There is no lag or slip that can sometimes be found in a harder-shelled tire. Overall I would put these tires right at the top of my list for an amazing all-around tire that not only is great for training purposes, but for those worried about punctures and traction on race day, this is another excellent option.
Head out to your local shop and give them a try. The AW (All-Weather) line comes in different price points and widths to fit for your high-end racer or your fitness bike weekend warrior. From AW1-AW3 and from $30-$70, there is a tire in this lineup for you.
-Dave
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