Davidlean

Hmmm. I can't seem to get the search engine to work.

Anyway, I am looking for new tires. I don't race, but I would like the "best value tires," that might be considered training tires.
Characteristics I am looking for: reasonable price, puncture-resistant, supple (or comfortable--I know that tire pressure plays a big part), low-rolling resistance, lightweight, durable, and good grip (when wet). Basically, I want dream tires. I am thinking possibly 700x25 in size. What tires would you recommend, or come closest in your experience?

CastIron

Conti Gatorskins are about as close as I've had. They're skewed towards durability in your given spectrum.

Davidlean

Oh, if it matters I weigh 146 lbs. and I like to go up hills and ride club length distances.

bitterken

Michelin Krylions.

lenexatokcmo

If you want cheap . . . I have a bike that came with Michelin Dynamics (which can aparently be had for $12-13). I planned on replacing them with gators as soon as they wore a bit or had a good flat - but a couple thousand miles later they are still holding up and not a single flat. If weight/bling are not a factor, it sure seems like you can get you $12 worth out of them.

billallbritten

I've been pleased (actually astonished) with a set of Michelin Pro3 Races. About 1500 miles on club rides, fitness riding on good roads as well as chip and seal. No cuts, amazingly. Some flatting of crown of rear tread but that's to be expected. I'll switch out the rear with a new one before 2000 miles, but I do that anyway. Comparison with Tricomps and Vittoria Pro Techs - Michelins win.

No big problem in installation on Campy vento rims, either.

Bill

trelhak

I've found the Vittoria Rubino Pro meets your needs pretty well. They're not a dedicated race tire, but they don't have race tires' lack of puncture resistance or their short lifespan. I've never had a problem with them, I love 'em.

rodrigaj

Continental Grand Prix 4000 or Michelin Krylions. Thread wear indicators on the Conti's are a nice feature.

dstrong 

I really like my Vredestein Fortezzas. Just the plain jane version...not the tri-comps. They come in 25mm widths and can be had at BikeTiresDirect for $34.95 here.

urbanknight

I'm very happy with my Continental Ultra 2000s which seem to get good mileage, corner well, and cost much less than the Gatorskins. I don't run over debris that much, but I'm also not the best at avoiding it, and I don't get many flats. I have heard stories from people with Gatorskins that they have gone over 2 years without a single flat, and I can't claim that on mine, but I saved $40 on the cost of a set of tires.

MIN 

That's a solid tire. Seconded.

I also use a cheap Zaffiro from Vittoria for winter training. I've never flatted either tire.

jrobe

I switched to Conti GP4000's a couple years ago and haven't had a flat in the last 8000 miles (knock on wood). I get 3000-4000 miles on a pair and then stick them on my trainer bike and get another 1000+ miles on them on the trainer. I love these tires and even use them for a little racing. They aren't cheap but they have saved me a lot of money just based on the durability.

humboldt'sroads

+1. Almost always on sale @ Performance for $29. I'm not sure if they come in a 25, but I love my 23's. I've also used and liked the Rubino Slick's. As someone said above, the Michelin dynamic tire really isn't bad for $12, though I didn't feel completely confident in them cornering in hairpin descents, but they work great for a commuter tire. I would not recommend them for wet conditions. The Rubino's for $29 are my preferred tire for the price.