I had Bontrager race lite hardcase 25's. I found them to be a tough tire. Did not have a problem with them .The reason bike shops may push Conti's is they may have a higher profit margin on them. But i can't justify spending $65.00 for a tire . . I found a tire called RIBMO ( Ride Bikes More) and went to 25's and 28's on the road bikes to fight the chipseal and 35's on the touring
http://www.amazon.com/Panaracer-Bicy...keywords=ribmo
I will use the Race lites on the trainer ( I have a extra wheel ) and use the 28's on the road