Originally Posted by
irclean
If you're interested in reducing rolling resistance then you should consider getting a slick tire with no tread - maybe just some channels to sipe away water. To me, a "commuter" tire provides stickiness on both wet and dry pavement and also provides puncture resistance. The latter often comes at the expense of weight, but there are some lighter tires that also provide puncture protection like the
Panaracer RibMo which is available for 700c rims in widths ranging from 23 - 35mm. I use the
Michelin Pilot City on my commuter and, while not light or narrow by any stretch of the imagination, it is tough, sticky, and durable, and makes a great commuter tire, IMHO. Good luck with your search!
I agree with everything except the necessity for siping tread. For "road" tires (under 32mm) you'd have to be doing around Mach-4 to hydroplane.
The contact patch is so small, and the leading edge of the patch is rounded instead of flat (like a car tire), so siping isn't necessary.
The RibMo is a great tire along with the T-Serv, as is the Soma Everwear, Schwalbe Marathonm and Marathon Plus for a super flat-resistance.
My choice of the Pasela TG was a balance between flat resistance, supple tire feel, and weight since it's on my long distance bike. My utility bike has some super heavy 2.2" street tires, and my old commuter had Marathon Plus tires. When the weight isn't a concern, only flat resistance is, then I choose the heavier more durable tire every time.