Scientific/empirical data aside, the best way to test a tire is on your bike and on a regularly ridden route of yours.

My Trek 460 had Vredestein Ricorso 700x23's on it when I decided they needed to go after 5yrs of riding. So I bought a set of Bontrager "B" series 700x25's and felt the difference in the first few cranks of the pedals. It was that obvious. They are a slower, heavier and wider tire than what I had. These are also the tires that are now full of holes, flat topped and still give me a dependable ride. But...they are getting tossed. I want that more responsive feel that this bike is designed to give. The Bontragers definately dampened that feel.

I'm going back to a "responsive" tire, the Michelin Krylion's 700x23.