After 400 miles, these tires had minimal surface cuts, a rare feat for race-oriented tires.

After 400 miles, these tires had minimal surface cuts, a rare feat for race-oriented tires.​

Editor's Note: This article is courtesy of the team at Art's Cyclery and was written by Kyle Engen. The original post can be found here.

Lowdown: Michelin Power Competition Tire

Offering great all-around performance at a reasonable price, the Power Competitions roll fast, offer great grip, and surpass the competition, notably the Continental GP 4000 S II.

Size: 700x23c or 700x25cBead: Folding
Weight: 200g (23c), 215g (25c)TPI: 180
Protection: Aramid Protek beltColor: Black
Compound: Michelin RacePrice: $65
Tread: Smooth, treadless
Stat Box


Pluses

Minuses
  • Great all-around tire with excellent performance in every category, especially durability
  • Could be more supple

Review: Michelin Power Competition Tire

Michelin's Power Competition Tires are positioned as the company's fastest road tire. Producing an extra 10 watts when compared to Michelin's previous Pro4, according to Michelin. The Power Competition benefits from rubber compound advancements made possible through Michelin's Moto GP program. Would the tire's real-world performance back up these lofty claims? We hit the road to find out.

These tires are an excellent choice for road races or uphill time trials, especially due to the 215-gram weight for a 700x25c.

These tires are an excellent choice for road races or uphill time trials, especially due to the 215-gram weight for a 700x25c.​

Performance

We were initially dubious as to Michelin's claim of a 25% decrease in rolling resistance. But it didn't take long to become a believer, as the Power Competition burned down gradual descents without extra effort. Manufacturers often claim statistical improvements, and with no way to accurately test, we have to take their word for it. In this case, we have no problem believing Michelin's numbers, as the Power Competitions roll extremely well. These tires would be excellent for road races or uphill time trials since the 25mm tires weigh in at an impressive 215 grams.

The main complaint with the old Pro4s was their unreliable grip in corners. They felt like they could lose traction at any time and skate across the road. That is not the case with the Power Competition, which exhibit excellent grip and control in corners. We were even able to PR some steep, twisty local descents. Michelin's new Race Compound, which is rooted in their MotoGP tires, is the reason. The 25mm wide Power Competitions feel very stable and predictable while cornering, possibly due to the more rounded profile when compared to the old Pro4s.

The Power Comp's biggest area for improvement is the casing, which felt a touch on the stiff side for a race tire. They are by no means uncomfortable, but when compared to other race tires, they feel a little rigid and not as supple over bumps. But that is a sacrifice most will be willing to make in the name of durability. Since truly durable race tires are hard to find.

The Power Competition's biggest area for improvement is the casing, which felt a touch on the stiff side for a race tire.

The Power Competition's biggest area for improvement is the casing, which felt a touch on the stiff side for a race tire.​

Durability

The Power Competitions held up similarly to, if not better than, the old Pro4s, which lasted an entire summer's worth of hard riding and racing. After 400 miles, these tires had minimal surface cuts, which is rare for race tires. Remember though, these are race tires and they will wear faster than a training tire.

During testing we suffered just one flat, a sidewall cut that would have got the best of any race tire, so don't count that one against them. The cut resistance of these tires is impressive, especially when comparing them to a Schwalbe One. After 400 miles you expect to see a back tire plagued with cuts, but not this time.

Value

The Power Competition offers great performance for the money. Other tires in the same category sell for $10 more and generally suffer more from flats and cuts. When you factor in the number of rides you'll be getting out of these super durable racing tires, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better bang for your buck.

Other tires in the same category sell for $10 more and generally suffer more from flats and cuts

Other tires in the same category sell for $10 more and generally suffer more from flats and cuts​

Bottom Line

Michelin's improvement claims pass the "road test" across the board. The Power Competitions offer better grip, improved puncture protection, and more speed while keeping the price competitive. The tires themselves remind us more of the Schwalbe One than the Michelin Pro4, and have even surpassed Continental's GP 4000 S II tires in quality. If you are looking for a durable, fast-rolling race tire that won't break the bank, try the Power Competitions.

For more information please visit bike.michelinman.com and www.artscyclery.com.