Continental today launches the Terra Competition, the fastest gravel tyre in the Terra range. Developed for riders who combine lots of asphalt with light gravel, the tyre focuses on reducing aerodynamic drag for the first time within the Terra range.
The result, according to Continental: up to 17% less rolling resistance and 16% weight saving compared to previous models. The lightest variant, the 35-622 in Race version, weighs 345 g.
Image: continental
Tread and compound
The tread design combines a continuous centre tread for low drag on straights with side studs for cornering grip on loose surfaces. The tyre uses the BlackChili-compound and has a textile breaker under the tread as additional puncture protection. Continental positions the tyre for rough asphalt and light gravel in dry to wet conditions.
Race vs Trail: two carcasses
The Terra Competition is available in two versions:
- Race casing with Rapid Compound, focusing on maximum speed on flat roads and climbs
- Trail casing with Grip Compound, with single-layer protection for better soil adaptation and extra puncture resistance in off-road use
If you mainly ride asphalt and hard gravel, the Race version makes sense. Those who seek rougher trails more often and want less risk of punctures will choose the Trail.
Specifications and price
All variants are tubeless-ready and suitable for hookless rims. Continental does not mention specific pressure limits or recommended rim widths in the release.
- 700×35 mm - 345 grams
- 700×40 mm - 420 g
- 700×45 mm - 470 g
The recommended retail price is €68,95 per tyre.
Spot in the Terra range
The Terra Competition fills out the fast end of the Terra range. Whereas the previously launched Terra Adventure focuses on durability and grip on rougher terrain, the Competition is all about pace and efficiency on predominantly paved surfaces.
Continental does not specify against which reference tyre the 17% rolling resistance reduction was measured. Independent tests will have to show how the Terra Competition compares with competitors in the fast gravel segment.
