My compromise when riding a bike that could only fit 23s was to use a race tire on the front and a stouter one on the rear. You get the front end comfort, grip and speed of a race tire with the wear life and durability of a training tire on the back. It's a compromise, but a good one IMO. I still use this setup for most road riding. Lately a Pro3 race int he front and Krylion carbon rear.