Originally Posted by TJHOO
Actually, just talked to Biketiresdirect. Gentleman there said the black may have more carbon, and possibly be ever so slightly more durable.
Do any pros ride colored tires?
1. Yes, carbon black rubber does last longer, but not all black tires are carbon rubber.
2. Carbon rubber reportedly doesn't grip as well as the silica blend used in some other tires, so carbon may not be best for racing situations. Some manufacturers claim that they use carbon rubber for the center of the tire, but a softer compound on the sides for cornering.
3. Pros mostly use tubular tires, so what they use doesn't have much bearing on what amateurs use.
4. Pros have mechanics to inspect and replace their tires as needed (and also free tires from their sponsors), so they don't really care about durability.