SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING

Ride Quality

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In common with the Vittoria, Maxxis and several other bigger section semi-slicks, the ride quality is firmly in magic carpet territory; literally gliding over lumpy, washboard tarmac and pock-marked town centre streets. Rolling resistance though more pronounced than the Voyager hyper, is considerably lower than girth suggests-surprisingly perky, in fact. 

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A lot of my riding is fast paced 20-25mile “blasts” but these qualities make a surprising impact, noticeably lessening fatigue on day rides.

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Cornering prowess cannot compete with super supple race rubber when flicking through the twisties but the GT have left me feeling surprisingly confident on wet, greasy descents. Even at the maximum 85psi, I’ve been surprised by how well they’ve bitten into the tarmac, when air temperatures dropped well below zero and a white, slippery carpet was literally forming before my eyes.

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Admittedly, the fixed test rig allows me to regulate speed by holding off against the cranks, rather than touching a lever and risking a face plant. Bleeding 10-15 psi bought some additional grip and confidence, without obviously impairing efficiency.

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Sprinting away at the lights, roundabouts, or on longer climbs, their pace is satisfyingly brisk and doing the pot-hole slalom has been surprisingly fun too. Raised ironworks are tricky customers in the wet, regardless but with a spoonful of common sense; no pregnant pauses or similarly anxious moments.

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Dry forest trails and canal towpaths are passable (which may appeal to those with mtb based workhorses) although the wider section Maxxis Roamer   deliver a more compliant ride. Personally, I’d go for the Marathon GT365 if you like to mix things up a bit.