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Michelin Pro Race 3 (2008)

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Price: $59.00

Manufacturer: Michelin

Website: http://www.michelinbicycletire.com

"Pretty Sticky, Pretty Fast!"

by Brian Butts
I flatted at a local race recently and was given a neutral support wheel with the new Pro Race 3 tire. From the very first corner, I was hooked.

2008 was the debut of Michelin’s new Pro 3 Race clincher road racing tire. The Pro Race 3 has a new dual-compound tread derived from the company’s Moto GP division. According to Michelin, the new central tread delivers 20% more straight-line grip than the Pro 2 Race, while the new shoulder rubber offers a 40% improvement.

Michelin says the Moto GP compounds are also more readily deformable than before to help maintain grip on coarser pavement and reduce rolling resistance.

The Pro 3 Race casing has a new High Density Puncture Protector (HDPP) nylon belt. This was apparently the cause of a production delay because the external company which makes all, or part, of the Puncture resistant compound was having financial trouble, causing Michelin to push the tires release date until another producer could be found.

The total claimed weight is a highly competitive 200g for the 700×23c size.

Michelin plans to roll out two other models the Pro 3 Light and the Pro 3 Grip later this fall.

You can really feel the difference in compounds between The Pro 3 and other tires. The soft, grippy feel translates to the corners for a smooth, stable ride. If you lean far enough you might require knee pads.

I have ridden on the Pro Race and the Pro 2's before and while the compound does lend itself to slices, cuts, and road debris being stuck in the tire, these are best left to racing. With the amount of money you will spend on them ($52-$59) you'll only wnat to wear them during races. I have read you can get them on the internet for much cheaper, $39 at pbk. If your looking for training tires you should look elsewhere but a better racing clincher you will not find.

Strengths: great dual compound that sticks to corners

Weaknesses: Price tag


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