Road Bike Tyres need more advancements, proved in the Paris-Roubaix 2025 race
In the world of cycling, the gruelling Paris-Roubaix race continues to push the boundaries of technology, and this year was no exception. The latest advancements in tyre technology, such as the Gravaa tyre pressure system and the practice of gluing tubeless tyres to rims, were noticeable trends at this year's event.
The Gravaa tyre pressure system represents a precision approach to tyre pressure management, allowing riders to optimize tyre inflation for maximum grip, comfort, and rolling efficiency on rough terrain like Paris-Roubaix. This system dynamically adjusts or closely monitors tyre pressure, helping achieve an optimal balance between speed and puncture resistance.
Another significant development was the practice of gluing tubeless tyres to rims. This method addresses the issue of tyre slip or burping (loss of air at the tyre-rim interface under hard use). By securely bonding the tubeless tyre to the rim, teams ensure the tyre remains firmly seated even under extreme vibrations caused by cobblestones, enhancing safety and ride consistency.
Despite these advancements, Paris-Roubaix still presents challenges that lead to mechanical issues. Teams like Intermarché and Visma Lease-a-bike glued their tubeless tyres to their rims due to the risk of losing air pressure on the cobbles. The Gravaa tyre pressure system was also employed by Visma Lease-a-bike, providing riders with real-time tyre pressure adjustments, adding a new layer of strategy to the race.
This year's Paris-Roubaix saw Tadej Pogačar competing in the men's race, while Pauline Ferrand-Prévot made history with a debut victory in the women's race. The brutal cobbles of Paris-Roubaix pose challenges to the very machines ridden by the competitors, but the ongoing innovation in tyre and wheel setup continues to meet these extreme demands.
The developments at Paris-Roubaix have a positive impact on consumer bikes, making them more reliable and comfortable. Wider internal rim widths are expected to become more widespread due to the use of wider tyres, offering both comfort and aerodynamic benefits. Many frames and wheels are now being designed with wider tyre clearance in mind, reflecting the growing trend towards wider tyres in bike design.
In conclusion, the key advancements at Paris-Roubaix 2025 were the Gravaa tyre pressure system and the practice of gluing tubeless tyres to rims. These technologies reflect ongoing innovation in tyre and wheel setup, designed to optimize performance and safety on the punishing cobbles of Paris-Roubaix. As the race continues to push the boundaries of technology, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future.
The Gravaa tyre pressure system, a cutting-edge technology, offers cyclists an advanced method for tyre pressure management, allowing them to maximize grip, comfort, and rolling efficiency on challenging terrains like those in sports events such as the Paris-Roubaix race. On the other hand, the practice of gluing tubeless tyres to rims, a significant development in sports technology, addresses the issue of tyre slip or burping, thereby enhancing safety and ride consistency in such demanding events.
