Paris-Roubaix: Putting tires to the test

Riding smoothly on asphalt before transitioning to the uneven cobblestones of the Paris-Roubaix race is a stark reminder of cycling's unpredictability. This shift in terrain demands more energy to maintain speed and introduces a significant risk of cuts and punctures.

In the grueling Paris-Roubaix event, where cyclists face over six hours of relentless pedaling across numerous cobblestone sections, the resilience of tires against cuts and punctures becomes critical. Energy efficiency is crucial, but the ultimate challenge lies in ensuring tire durability in the face of the unpredictable rough terrain.

A technical challenge for tire manufacturers

The quest for the ideal bike tire in events like Paris-Roubaix extends beyond simple efficiency. 
Adjusting tire pressure and tread patterns for optimal performance against the harsh cobblestones, while ensuring the bike remains lightweight yet sturdy, is a delicate balancing act. It's not just about efficiency; it's about preventing a racing performance from being compromised by tire failure.

Teijin Aramid and bicycle tires

Teijin Aramid, with its Twaron® and Technora® fibers, stands at the cutting edge of tire reinforcement technology, collaborating with industry leaders like Pirelli, Continental, Dravima, and Panaracer. Our materials are pivotal in creating foldable tires that don't sacrifice weight for durability: They feature lightweight beads that uphold tire structure without adding unnecessary bulk. Twaron and Technora, in particular, plays a critical role in developing anti-puncture layers (APLs), offering cyclists peace of mind against the threats of cuts and debris.

Our presence in bicycle engineering extends beyond tire technology. In partnership with bicycle design innovators, such as 14 Carbon, we support teams who are pushing the envelope in bike design.
 

The constant push for better performance

The heart of cycling classics may remain unchanged, but the motivation to build better bikes never ends. Materials play a fundamental role in the designs needed to secure success. Our technology helps cyclists have the most reliable equipment to face any challenge the road presents.