Frustrating commute this morning. The conditions were fine and I felt good (despite having been up since 3 am), with decent energy. However, I had just mounted my new Conti Top Touring tires this weekend and this was my first ride. Even though they were the same size as my Sport Contacts (700 x 28), they were remarkably heavy and cushy by comparison. It felt like I was riding on flats, in fact, I kept looking down to make sure that I wasn't losing air. I was pedalling through sand, it was like I was always overgeared. In addition, the bike handled like a tank, slow turn-in, wandering, hard to keep a line, and, I felt significant gyroscopic force as I leaned into a turn. I just hope the: increased tread, all weather usability, durability, and enhanced puncture protection make up for the slowness and poor handling. I bought them to get through the Winter, if they do that well I'll be happy.