Originally Posted by
noimagination
I like the Forte Metro ST tire from Performance bike. It's cheap, durable, and on my Cannondale T700 I don't notice any differences in weight or ride compared to similar tires (Avocet cross k, for example).
I am currently running the Forte Metro ST tires in 700x35 and they are grippy, and supple-ish. I like them a lot. I bought them on sale for $12 each (50% off). I use Mr. Tuffy Tire liners and have had no punctures since purchase late last summer.
They ride similarly to the Kenda Kwests, but are smoother and grippier. The Kenda Small-Block 8's that came with the bike were more supple, but the micro-knobs made for less grip on the road. I had also previously tried Continental Touring II's which were firmer and harsher, but the grippiest tires I have ever run, and also the toughest, but ironically the front or rear was sliced open on a ride home last year.
While I would prefer a more supple ride, the Forte Metro ST tires are now my favorites, especially when you factor in the low price, which when you add the fact that I go through a pair of tires every 9-12 months on my main bike, makes them my favorite tire in years for commuting.