So, on my glass and pothole infested 21 RT commute I upgraded my cheapo Forte Kevlar tires (which which actually worked fairly well but wore down very quickly) to so Chen Shin Flatfighters about 3 weeks ago. Yesterday morning I ran over something (sounded metallic) that tore a 3/4" gash down the sidewall which, of course, flatted me in 3 seconds flat.

Now I figure that I'll go a bit more high end with some Schwalbe Marathons and hoped you folks would have a recommendation. I'm basically considering 2 models: The HS 368 and the Marathon Plus.

Who amongst you has ridden these and what's your opinion? The 368 is supposed to roll faster but the Plus has better protection and durability. Is the speed difference pretty drastic? I'd prefer the Plus but not if it feels like I'm dragging a brake all day.

Here's how Schwalbe rates them...

Marathon HS 368


Marathon Plus HS 348


Another option is Continental Ultra Gatorskin but those are slower, right?

Any opinion appreciated!

Actually Schwalbe says that the HS368 is 500 grams, the Plus is 580 grams, and Conti Ultra Gator Skin is 300 grams? (all 700x25). I guess my question really comes down to this: Which offers the best combo of speed + protection + mileage?