Challenge Criterium RS Handmade Tubeless Ready Road Tyre - 700c - 30mm

The Criterium RS is designed for ultimate performance, offering an ideal balance of speed, grip, a...

Best current price£59.95from Merlin Cycles

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Merlin CyclesChallenge Black/White Criterium Rs Handmade Tubeless Ready Road Tyre - 700C - / / 700C / 30Mm / Folding / Clincher
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£59.95
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www.sprocketandgear.co.ukChallenge White Criterium Rs Handmade Tubeless H-Tlr Road Tyre 350Tpi
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£85.99
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Product Information

Full details

The Challenge Criterium RS is a high-performance road tyre engineered for competitive cyclists and enthusiasts seeking a perfect equilibrium between raw speed, cornering grip, and durability. By utilizing a 350tpi Corespun Cotton casing and Tubeless Ready technology, it offers an exceptionally smooth ride quality and lower weight compared to standard clinchers, though riders should note that the handmade construction requires careful installation to ensure a proper tubeless seal.

All features

Model Part NumberCH-00156
BrandChallenge

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Is this tyre compatible with inner tubes?

Yes, while it is optimized for tubeless use, it can be used with a standard inner tube if preferred.

What is the recommended sealant?

We recommend using an ammonia-free tubeless sealant to preserve the integrity of the cotton casing.

How do I maintain the cotton sidewalls?

Keep the tyre clean of mud and debris. If the sidewalls appear dirty, wipe them with a damp cloth; do not use abrasive brushes.

Can I use this tyre for gravel riding?

The Criterium RS is specifically designed for road performance and is not intended for gravel or off-road use.

What is the benefit of 350tpi?

A higher threads-per-inch (tpi) count indicates a more supple casing, which translates to a smoother ride and better deformation over road surface imperfections.

Troubleshooting

Difficulty seating the bead

Ensure the tyre bead is pushed into the center channel of the rim and use a tyre lever or a tubeless bead-seating tool if necessary; check that rim tape is not interfering with the bead path.

Sealant leaking from sidewalls

This is common with new cotton casing tyres; shake the wheel to distribute sealant and inflate to maximum pressure for a few hours to help the sealant coat the interior fabric.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Extremely low rolling resistance for competitive speed
  • Superior shock absorption from the cotton casing
  • Lightweight construction improves acceleration
  • Advanced puncture protection layer
  • Excellent grip in high-speed corners

Cons

  • Requires proper tubeless setup technique
  • Cotton casings require more maintenance than vulcanized rubber
  • Premium pricing reflects handmade quality

Setup, Compatibility & Care

This tyre is designed for 700c tubeless-compatible rims. When installing, use a high-quality rim tape and tubeless-specific sealant to ensure an airtight bond. It is recommended to inflate the tyre slowly during the initial setup to ensure the Zylon-HL bead seats evenly across the rim hook. To prolong the life of the cotton casing, keep the tyres away from prolonged exposure to harsh UV light and ensure they are cleaned regularly with water. Avoid using harsh chemical degreasers that may degrade the cotton fibres or the compound.

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