Gatorskin vs Duraskin
#2
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Joined: Apr 2017
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From: Ottawa,ON,Canada
Bikes: Schwinn Miranda 1990, Giant TCX 2 2012
#3
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Joined: Oct 2009
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From: Mt Shasta, CA, USA
Bikes: Too many. Giant Trance X 29, Surly Midnight Special get the most time.
Duraskin is Continental's term for their robust puncture protection layer—it's used on the Gatorskins. A lot of recreational road riders have sworn by Gatorskins for ages, but I think there are tires with similar puncture protection and much more supple and fast casing, with better rubber. The Continental Grand Prix 4 Seasons, for example, has the same puncture protection layer as the Gatorskins, and similar tested puncture protection, but is much faster, lighter, with better grip.
#4
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Joined: Apr 2005
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From: Northern California
Duraskin is Continental's term for their robust puncture protection layer—it's used on the Gatorskins. A lot of recreational road riders have sworn by Gatorskins for ages, but I think there are tires with similar puncture protection and much more supple and fast casing, with better rubber. The Continental Grand Prix 4 Seasons, for example, has the same puncture protection layer as the Gatorskins, and similar tested puncture protection, but is much faster, lighter, with better grip.
#5
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From: TN
#6
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Joined: Oct 2009
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From: Mt Shasta, CA, USA
Bikes: Too many. Giant Trance X 29, Surly Midnight Special get the most time.
I've used both Continental Gatorskin and 4-Seasons. There isn't any weight difference, if you compare the folding version of both in the same sizes (unless you are including the weight of your wallet). 4-Seasons has better grip in rainy conditions, but I am really dubious about "much faster" on drier roads.
Anecdotally, I've just been unimpressed with the feel of Gatorskins. I just think there are better tires.
#7
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Joined: Sep 2013
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From: Lancashire, UK
Bikes: 1992 Dave Yates Diabolo MTB, Steel winter roadie upgraded to full 11 speed 105 and Hunt wheels. 2016 Giant Defy Advanced two with Hunt wheels.
I had Conti 4 Seasons on my winter bike and always liked them although I had a few punctures. I replaced them with the new Michelin Power Endurance and was blown away. I've had less punctures and the rolling resistance is much lower and the grip is awesome in the wet.
#8
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Joined: Jun 2007
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From: TN
I used Gatorskins and 4 Seasons both for years. Couldn't tell a lot of difference. Switched to 4000sII and liked them much better. Found the GP GT in 25, seems to ride as nicely as the 4000 but perhaps more durable as in fewer cuts. I like the Panaracer GravelKing for 28 and larger. Would like to try the new Michelins.
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