Road Cycling - Pick Me A Training Tire!

Tons of info on this site about different tire brands & quality. I'm wondering though if you had to pick a 3 season (generally fair weather riding) training tire, what would you choose? Is a $50 tire (i.e. conti gp's, michelin pro race, etc.) going to ride that much better that it's worth the extra cash? Personally I'd be willing to give up a little rolling resistance and cornering for durability and puncture protection, but then I'm not racing. That being said I'd rather not be rolling around on inefficient clunkers (I'm only 140lbs.) Give me your picks and why! :)

Conti UltraGatorskins. Either in wire or kevlar bead.

I also like the Gatorskins. You get pretty fair traction and they are almost flatproof. If you are looking for something with a little more traction and equal flat protection there are the Conti GP 4 Seasons. I think the differance in price is only a couple of dollars.

What about the conti ultra 2000's... is the enough durability or a little to high end for training?

I've never used Ultra 2000's but I do not think they have a kevlar belt like the Gator Skins or the 4 Seasons. If you are looking for flat protection I would look at the other two Conti tires or Vittorio Rubinos.

I don't think the silicone rubber in tires like the Mich Pro Race, Conti GP 3000 do well on wet pavement... the old, I dunno, carbon(?), rubber seems to do better in those circumstances. That would include Vittoria Open Corsa's or Rubino Pros, and most of the lower end Contis, unless they've changed them... I haven't checked lately. Either of the Vitts might fit the bill as a good, all purpose 3 season tire. The Open Corsa's allow a higher tire pressure, and have a better ride, IMO, but cost more (naturally).

Currently, I'm riding some Tufo S33 clincher tubulars. The tread is the old carbon rubber. They have a max PSI of ~160lbs, and have a fast, sweet ride, and have a confidence-building grip through corners. But are a little heavier than most quality clinchers. I understand tubbies are virtually immune to pinch flats, and on a century this week-end, I hit a good sized stone in the road while riding at speed, and didn't take any damage. I haven't got enough time/miles on them to say much more.

i just bought 2 michelin carbons on many recommendations

the Michelin Carbon's were the other strong choice I had in mind, thanks for mentioning it. Now if only you could fast forward your use 8 months down the road, I'd have my choice! ;)

Ok, that's it I'm going with the Axial Carbon's... they should do everything I want them to, and should provide great mileage. Thanks for the contributions everyone.

I've been happy with Vredestein Ricorsos. I haven't had them for long (only about 300-400 miles) but they're showing no wear to speak of. They're "puncture resistant" but not kevlar (I don't think). I've also read a few good reviews online. What sold me, though, was the price ($12) and that I could get high pressure (rated 125psi)...

Here's the link: http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=121&subcategory=1085&brand=&sku=9591&storetype=&estoreid=

Might look at Bontragers new "Hard Case" tires. (for a training tire)

another vote here for axial carbons. 1500miles on them and no sign of wear.

discovered two goat head thorns on one ride and it never punctured the tube. Of course, I pulled it out once i heard the annoying synchronous sound those make (chunk, chunk, chunk, ...).

Specialized Armadillo Turbo Lites. Great, long wearing training tire with a kevlar belt. No cachet in the name, but I have over 2500 miles on without a flat and they look good for at least another 2500. Hardly any noticeable wear. This is my second set and the first were just as good. I still use them on my trainer. And at less than $50 for a pair is a good deal compared to the high-zoot names.