When I first got into road cycling, tyres were just… tyres. I didn’t realise how much they could affect comfort, speed, and even how confident I felt in corners. But after wasting time (and money) on the wrong setups, I learned the hard way that tyre choice matters more than most people think.
So in this post, we’re breaking down the different types of road tyres using one of the most popular ranges out there: the Continental GP5000 series. Whether you’re racing, riding year-round, or just trying to avoid punctures, here’s what you need to know.
Start with the Basics: Not All GP5000s Are the Same
Continental’s GP5000 range includes four main tyres:
- GP5000 S TR
- GP5000 TT TR
- GP5000 AS TR
- GP5000 (standard tube-type version)
They all look similar at first glance, but each one is built for a different kind of rider and terrain.
GP5000 S TR – The Race Day Workhorse
If you do fast group rides, race crits, or want something lightweight and quick, the S TR is probably your best bet. It’s tubeless-ready, rolls fast, and still gives you decent puncture protection. It strikes a nice balance between speed and practicality.
Best for: Riders who want a fast tyre that can still handle day-to-day use.
GP5000 TT TR – Pure Speed
This one’s built for minimal weight and rolling resistance. It’s the lightest tyre in the GP5000 range, made specifically for time trials, triathlons, or smooth, fast circuits. The reduced material saves grams and adds speed, but you give up durability and puncture protection.
It was also developed with input from Swiss Side, the aero experts behind Continental’s Aero 111 project—a partnership aimed at creating the fastest complete system of tyre, rim, and airflow. While the TT TR isn’t designed to be aero by itself, it’s built to complement aero setups when every watt counts.
Best for: Race day only. Not recommended for training or rough roads.
GP5000 AS TR – Reinforced & Winter-Ready
The AS stands for All Season. It’s heavier than the S TR or TT TR, but way tougher. You get added puncture resistance and better grip in the wet. This one’s ideal for winter training, bad roads, or riders who just don’t want to deal with flats.
Best for: Year-round commuters, winter riders, and those who value reliability over speed.
GP5000 (Tube-Type) – The Classic All-Rounder
This is the only tyre in the lineup that isn’t tubeless-ready. It’s a tube-type clincher, which means it needs an inner tube to run. If you’re not ready to go tubeless, this is still a great option. It delivers strong performance, solid grip, and decent rolling resistance—at a slightly lower price point.
*Note: These are not hookless compatible tyres. If you have a hookless rim, then you should avoid using these tyres.
Best for: Riders who want simplicity and performance with a traditional setup.
Which One Should You Choose?
It depends on what you ride, where you ride, and what you care about most:
- Prioritise speed? Go for the S TR or TT TR.
- Hate punctures? The AS TR is your friend.
- Still running tubes? The standard GP5000 is a reliable option.
Whatever you pick, don’t fall into the trap of assuming all tyres are the same. Your setup can completely change how your bike feels — and it’s worth getting it right.
