A fast rolling tire designed for cross country competition and all-around performance. The Twister Pro is lighter than semi-slicks and offers improved traction particularly in wet conditions. Included in the "Endless Edge" family, the Twister Pro tread design features five-sided lugs precisely- positioned for a effortless handling, predictable steering and responsive breaking under a full range of conditions. Also available as Twister Pro Dual and Twister Pro Tection.
TwisterPro 47-559 (26 x 1.9) 510 grams-wire 450 grams-foldable
TwisterPro Dual 47-559 (26 x 1.9) 510 grams-wire 450 grams-foldable
TwisterProTection 47-559 (26 x 1.9) 520 grams-wire 460 grams-foldable
Submitted by
Lewis
a Cross Country Rider
from Ashford, Kent, UK Date Reviewed: February 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good for speed when new
Weaknesses:
Punctures! Wear, Durability, Strengh
Bike Setup:
2006 Carrera Fury 18' Hardtail
Bottom Line:
I Have to say i've used these for 7 Months and am very surprised at the wear... both the front and back tyres are completely bald. I use my bike for commuting mainly to school and to the other side of town and a few 40-60+ Mile rides, usually rack up about 80 miles a week. Have done 2100 Miles on these tyres and they seriously need replacing, i do very little off road on them, i just stick to the pathways, cycle lanes and roads. Punctures are endless! ( as i seem to find with most continental tyres!) Before i fitted slime tape on the front and paneracer kevlar tape on the rear i could be gettin upwards of 3-2 puntures a week! A large piece of glass i ran over managed to slash the front tyre and a thorn did the same on the rear one. Only Positive's i can say is they have good grip during the summer months when the road and tyres are warm and when new you can get moderae speed on out of them (nto great...they are still knobblies). I'm going to be changing to either Specialized Hemisphere's or Michelin TransWorld City's. In the mean time i'm going to get as much life as i can out of these dead things.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Evgeniy
a Weekend Warrior
from Moscow, Russia Date Reviewed: April 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Bitzevskiy park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Sokol'niki
Strengths:
Speedy, noisless and great control on any surfaces and ground conditions - dry, rain or forest mud or wet sand. You can run like hell with it, especially after some OEM tires.
Weaknesses:
Do not much puncture resistance.
Similar Products Used:
Something heavy from Cheng Shin Tire (OEM).
Bike Setup:
Kona Lana'i 2002, totally upgraded.
Bottom Line:
This is first choice for people who want some lightweight fancy speedy tires in concret jungle/forest or fields situation. I don't know how it works on rocky surfaces. I try to use Panaracer Flat Away ribbon with that Twisters to prevent flats.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate Byrom
a Racer
from California Date Reviewed: March 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$36.00
Strengths:
Great traction in all conditions. I race in allot of sand and mud and never lose traction. They also work great in hard packed dirt and.
Weaknesses:
Since they are nylon you shouldnt use them just trail riding. I use them only for racing then taked them off when done.
Bike Setup:
giant anthem 1
Bottom Line:
the best tires in the world!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Corstian Devos
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia Date Reviewed: March 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Any trail is a good trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Re-My Sports, Streetsville, ON, Canada
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance. Good cornering, even in wet and loose conditions in varied terrain. Wears well in normal conditions. As a steering tire I have not met its performance match. Then again, once I found it I stopped looking!!
Weaknesses:
For lightness all tires give up thickness. Thorns and the occasional metal bit will sometimes cause a puncture. However, if those are your normal riding conditions you aren't going to mount this tire. As a big guy (6' 3" 230-240 Lbs) I have never mounted this as a drive tire because the lack of tread depth would have me spinning out on too many climbs.
Similar Products Used:
Many. Too tired to list.
Bike Setup:
Giant AC-1 frame. Old original Judy front fork off my old Warp DS-1 (I broke 4 but the fork has survived) with heavy duty springs. (I weigh 230-240 lbs) XT all around the drive train. Sachs 40 chain. Original aluminum Avid Rollamajig. Hayes mechanical MX-2 disc brakes with Avid 5.0 Speed Dial levers. 6" front rotor (warranty is my friend) and 8" rear rotor. Avid Flak Jacket cable system. Oury DH grips which work nice for my big hands. Fizik (Giro) Atlas seat. SH 858 pedals (they work for me). Blackspire Big Ring Protector. Twister Pro on the front and WTB Tyranno Raptor paddled for traction on the back. Bike built for punishment not beauty!!!
Bottom Line:
I have run this tire for 5 years and hundreds of miles now as my main front tire. In all conditions it has performed remarkably well. From clay in the rain (Kelso Conservation Area, Milton, ON, Canada) to sand (Santa Mesa, CA, USA) to rock (Winter Park, CO, USA) to combinations (Pennypack Park, Philadelphia, PA) this tire has kept me rolling light and turning sharp. I chose it for low rolling resistance and the "endless tread" design and I have not been disappointed. I have never run this as a back tire and cannot comment on its traction or performance as a drive tire. However, as a steering tire in all conditions it works for me and I am buying a new one!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mcnuff
a Weekend Warrior
from Beijing, China Date Reviewed: February 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bike Brothers
Strengths:
Light weight
Weaknesses:
Price, cornering grip on wet at loose terrain, puncture protection
Similar Products Used:
Many...
Bike Setup:
Trek 6500
Bottom Line:
I joined two fun races with these tyres. - A fun race at the 2008 Beijing Olympics track at Laoshan/Beijing. Short & narrow track which actually looks more like a cyclocross track (certainly not a mountain bike track!). Finished the race (one of the exceptions as more than half the pack had flats..) but 30 secs after finishing both tyres were completely flat! I counted in total 32 puncture holes (both wheels). For a 12 KM fun race that is not a very good report for these tyres (nor for the upcoming olympic track!). Perhaps tubeless will be the way to go...as I do not see the Chinese Olympic officials cleaning all the thorns from the track). Besides the flats, the tyres were running pretty well and fast rolling on this hard soil.
- A marathon race of 100km on loose terrain on which these tyres simply showed to be a disaster in terms of traction and cornering grip. The rubber knobs also peeled off far too fast.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Racer
from Midwest Date Reviewed: May 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Claustraphobic Singletrack
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Super light! Low rolling resistanse.
Weaknesses:
The grip on these tires sucks. I find them only usable on hardpack and slightly sticky. These tires fail on any loose soil or sand. SAND is terrible!!!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Continental Atlanta and Double Fighter, Hutchinson Mosquito, Michelin Wildgripper, Ritchey Mudmax (damn good), WTB Primal Raptor (AWESOME!!!)
Bike Setup:
Neptune al frame, XT/Sun pro wheels, Manitou SX-e fork, Dura-Ace single speed drivetrain, Thompson, Kore. SRAM 7.0 drivetrain (when using gears) and XTR crankset.
Bottom Line:
I don't like them. I don't ride them. I don't recommend them. These are blazing fast but fail with any loose dirt or mud. I wish my WTB and Ritchey tire matchup was as light as these. *sigh*
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martijn
a Cross Country Rider
from H.I.Ambacht Date Reviewed: January 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Portes Du Soleil
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
www.starbike.com
Strengths:
Light, grippy, low rolling restistance
Weaknesses:
Not the most puncture proof, not to durable when used on the road
Similar Products Used:
Conti Explorer Supersonic, Ritchey Z-max HDK, Specialized Groundcontrol/master, Schwalbe Black Shark SX (the best ever)
Bike Setup:
Cube Airwing Blackline and Storck Adrenalin Race full suspentions; both full of XTR, Chris King, Syntace. Thomson, Race Face and Tune. (and lots of other super stuff)
Bottom Line:
I use the SuperSonic version and I love it to death! Looking at my riding style (hard and rough) and the millage a do on the road I still can't complain about how long they last me. When you want durable tires for allround use look somewhere else.
I use them front and rear from late spring till late summer and replace the front with a Explorer SuperSonic when autumn comes or things get realy muddy and wet. Even in mud they give me enough tration at the rear and you can drift the rearwheel when you want to. They shine on hardpack and are good enough for experianced riders on wet roots and rocks. They are not the best tires on sharp rocks because of the thin cassing but when you ride smooth it's not a very big problem.
For me they are one f the best lightweight tires on the market today!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, Canada Date Reviewed: August 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Rolls nicely, grips well.
Weaknesses:
Manageable in sand and wet conditions probably not the best.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockster Sport (OEM stock tire)
Bike Setup:
Fully modified Specialized Rockhopper
Bottom Line:
Great tires. I've been riding them now for a year and they've handled everything from hardpack to loose dirt and gravel to the rock fields of Slatyfork.
No complaints about flats (I'm fairly light-weight though), even after riding over tons of rocks on a hardtail. I ride 40-45 PSI on the trails.
I would definitely buy these tires again - after I try what else is out there, since these are only my second pair.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pawe³
a Cross Country Rider
from Lodz, Poland Date Reviewed: April 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
XC trails in Europe's biggest forest complex within citi limits - £agiewniki
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$11.00
Purchased At:
my mechanic's at Kiliñskiego 5
Strengths:
Really low rolling resistance. Amazingly good grip for a super-inflated semislick, even on steep uphills and during really low cornering.
Weaknesses:
A bit too heavy (Twisters Pro with wire). "Tricky" behavior on sand or in mud.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos XC 1.95
Bike Setup:
Author Vision frame with LX/XT components and a six-year-old Mozo Pro :-)
Bottom Line:
The cheapest version of the Twister may not be quite as useful and appealing to XC racers as the supersonics but it will be a great choice for someone who doesn't want to spend all his savings and have a great tire for everyday, long-distance use - one that won't drain his energy even when he's spending his sixth hour on the saddle. And besides... they look good and they handle well... taking into consideration that they are semislicks.
I made a good and conscious choice.
P.S. THey don't wear as fast as some people may tell you. ...but the weight...
Ah, maybe I'll have the supersonics next time :-D
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Lohnes
a Cross Country Rider
from Alaska Date Reviewed: March 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
mail order
Strengths:
light weight, grippy, low rolling resistance, narrow width
Weaknesses:
higher than normal wear
Similar Products Used:
All Conti models and several Ritchey Z-Max versions
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel, full XTR...
Bottom Line:
The Twister Pro Supersonic model is what I have been using year-round as my commuting and trail tire and I have been very, very happy with the performance. Even in the winter, just lowering the pressure a hair yields a significant increase in traction, with out too much rolling resistance. In fact, this tires responds well to tire pressure adjustments...no doubt due to the thin cases. I really like the narrow width, as most tires are getting wider and my style appeals to the narrow versions. In the summertime, this tire seems capable of handling everything I encounter...except the very slick and slimy rocks and roots, in which case it slides...a lot. They are SWEET on single track and fire-roads. In sand they are so, so, but this is not a sandy condition tire either, so my expectations are not high in this area.
I have not had problems with excessive s flats, nor do I have any complaints about the sidewall wearing out. I suspect that mismatched tires to terrain and riding style may be affecting other riders who have this issue with this tire. I have not tried the Protection version...but I expect no difference other than more weight.
Over all this is a great tire who can use them as they are intended...for me they have been great. No complaints.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seth
a Cross Country Rider
from West Haven, Ct, US Date Reviewed: October 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anything fast and tight
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Lbs
Strengths:
Fast tire w/ low roll resist. Grips better than it would appear to at first glance. The yellow/orange strip is almost a perfect match with my supercal's fork.
Weaknesses:
HORRIBLE wear rate. After about a month, the yellow strip which runs down the center of the tire has been worn through in some places(possibly partly b/c of my dumb-arss friends doing skids), but bad nonetheless. Very suseptible to puncture flats, esp. thorns.
Similar Products Used:
WTB race raptor, veloceraptor
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Supercaliber
Bottom Line:
I really like the tire, and the low roll resist is a plus. Problems with the wear and punctures have been a nuisence, and b/c of the non-fold bead, tire is very difficult to change. Excellent tire, nonetheless. Would purchase again, but consider using different tires if riding any road. Get'em cheap on ebay; for this availability I will increase my retail price rating of 4 chilis to 5 if bought for cheap. Wear is a problem; only 4 overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stump
a Racer
from Watertown, MA Date Reviewed: September 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$37.00
Purchased At:
notubes.com
Strengths:
Light, fast rolling, great grip considering the low profile knobs, looks fast/cool......
Weaknesses:
none.....although it will wear fast if you use as a regular tire........but why would you, it's a RACE tire.
Similar Products Used:
wtb, specialized, klimax lite, verts, survivals, etc, etc, etc.....I've used a ton of tires over the years
Bike Setup:
truth....tires are mounted to 317s using Stan's notube system.
Bottom Line:
This tire rocks! KEEP IN MIND IT'S MEANT FOR RACING!
I used this tire for several XC racers and this years 24/Holiday Farm......for all intent and purposes it worked very well. It's most at home on hardpack and tacky dirt. It will drop down into the mud before it digs it's way out (isn't that what a good mud tire should do?).
The only time I felt it lacking was in a race that was held on a drizzly, humid day (roots/rocks were real "sweaty")....I had a lot of spin outs on this day, but still managed to stay upright.
Combine this tire with an explorer up front and you'll have a great race tire combo. Always, always, always buy Conti tires in the "protection" version.....they just work better: more durable, especially with the notubes.
I agree with other reviewers this tire will wear quickly, but what RACE tire doesn't (keep it off the pavement...knobbies belong on dirt). Use it for it's intended use and you'll be racing on it for a few years.
This tire is all about speed and racing.......if you use it as a regular tire, enjoy it but DON'T complain if it wears quickly.
I don't think it's just me, maybe it is.......does it seem to y'all out there that way too many reviewers knock a product b/c it doesn't do something it wasn't intended to do in the first place?
Either way, assume tire......it's fast, grippy and wears very well for it's intended use, RACING!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darren
a Cross Country Rider
from Southampton, UK Date Reviewed: September 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Plym Valley, Dartmoor
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Wiggle
Strengths:
Very light weight, unfeasibly good grip, low rolling resistance. Corners well on loose gravel despite appearances.
Weaknesses:
Appalling wear rate, very susceptible to thorn induced slow punctures (even with a thick inner tube). Not the best tyre for deep gravel/shingle/mud, but it works better under these conditions than it has a right to considereing the sparse, low knobs.
Similar Products Used:
Continental Vertical Pro/Survival; Panaracer Trailblaster/Fire Mud; Bontrager Jones
Bike Setup:
Marin Attack Trail full sus, test tyre on rear wheel only.
Bottom Line:
The Supersonic flavour is tested here. The ultra-soft rubber compound and thin walls make for a super-fast grippy tyre that hugs every detail of the terrain, but also means that it's trashed after 2 months of weekend XC riding (about 30 hours of off-road use). Very prone to thorn punctures, and the canvas starts showing through long before the knobs start to wear down. A great tyre if you can use it for a couple of races before binning it, but not for recreational use. 5 Chillis for as-new performance, 1 chilli for value and durability.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin
a Racer
from Chicago Date Reviewed: August 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$38.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Nice 1.8 profile, mud shedding (for those 10 ft mud sections anyway), low rolling resistance when used on the rear and explorer upfront, the protection version weighs 450grams and still resists sidewall cuts and works with Stan's. Climbs in all but the loosest gravel and soil. Grips roots and rocks and cornering and brake traction excellent. Hauls ass in dry hardpack with better grip then a semi-slick.
Weaknesses:
Get ready to replace it if you ride alot becuase of the soft compound. Real steep climbs that require out of saddle attacks with really loose soil will spin out and you will end up dismounting and running your bike up the climb.
Similar Products Used:
everything but find Contis in general to be the best tires for performance and reliability for mixed trail conditions.
Bike Setup:
xtr disc hubs with 3.1 ust rims and stan's latex.
Bottom Line:
Its a great tire but I don't think it's that much better than and escape or explorer in the rear for rolling resistance and speed, even for racing. I would use it for courses and trails that are dry and hardpack with no loose gravel, otherwise I'll keep the explorer. It'll hook up with rocks and roots in dry. I used it in Utah and during fast downhill sections and the bike never really got away from me but the escape would have been better. The trade off for a small nobbed skinny tire that grips is wear. If you are running latex buy the protection version for reliability! It does what it's supposed to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christoph Zimmer
a Cross Country Rider
from Duesseldorf, Germany Date Reviewed: June 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Willingen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
weight - the Supersonic version is about 350g !!! pressure - no problems at 4 bar unubelievable acceleration
Weaknesses:
- flats all the time (caused by pieces of glass or thorns) - no trackting on wet tracks - after 3 months the tire is gone
The serious problem of this fine racing tire is the series of flats on a track. this is the reason why i changed to UST tubeless. with a lightweight wheelset the acceleration of this tire is incredible. you will eat yourfriends your dust. but after 3 months of serious riding the fun is over and the tire is gone. the rubber is so soft (probably the only way to get any tracktion with this dimension) that every braking is wasted money. all in all a fine product if you have a need for speed... very expensive!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Racer
from Madison Date Reviewed: May 6, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$39.00
Purchased At:
on-line
Strengths:
Review is for the Twister Supersonics - I figured I needed all the help I could get for my poor climbing.
These weighed in at under 350g per - super light!
Weaknesses:
Loose conditions - sand, soft gravel. Not fot sharp rocks, etc. Light weight = thinner...
Similar Products Used:
Pythons, Tioga red phoenix, grippers, panracers.....
Bike Setup:
03 Fuel, F80 RLT shock, Race X-Lite rims
Bottom Line:
Nice. I'm running on tubeless rims with Stan's no tube - awesome set up for most riding here in the midwest. Super light and so far, very fast (BTW - the Bontrager Race X-lite wheels absolutely blows doors on the Mavics - lighter and NOOO flex compared to the '02 Crossmax. ??? on the '03 SL's)
These tires hook-up extremely well in hard pack and semi-hardpack (after a rain...). Just raced on these on a NORBA course - Alpine Valley, WI - they handled everything nicely.
Super predictable on fast single track, giddy-up on the hills - just remember to sit on steep, loose hills...predictable on the off-camber roots too - you know they'll slip if you don't hit the angle just right!
Definitely keeping these for the season; with the exception of muddy clay, these babies rock!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan GlowBoy
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: April 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anywhere in the desert
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Bike Gallery
Strengths:
Rolls fast. Very grippy for such a light tread. Grips well in a variety of conditions where you might run a semislick, including wet or dry pavement, moderate gravel and rocks, hardpack dirt and even moderate mud.
Weaknesses:
Like all Contis, much smaller than claimed.
Similar Products Used:
WTB All Terrainasaurus, Conti Town & Country, Kenda Kross Supreme, Ritchey Mount Cross
Bike Setup:
'01 Bianchi Volpe 'cross bike
Bottom Line:
OK, this review is for the 700x32 'cross version of the tire, but this tire isn't listed on RoadBikeReview ... and in any case, it's applicable because the tread pattern and design are the same as the 26" versions. Also, this review is for the wire bead non-pro version. Anyway, this is one of the best semislicks out there. It works decently in everything. I ran it as a rear tire in an extremely muddy cross race last summer and it grabbed the mud very well. I also commuted on it all winter (here, that means rain) and it always gripped well on the slickest pavement. I've also taken it offroad a bit, and it did decently on hardpack on gravel - as well as you could expect from a semislick. The center knobs are very short so it rolls fast on hard stuff, and they get wider towards the edge so you still have some grip in the loose stuff. Good design, works great. I'm thinking of getting the 700x37 for a little more cush. I'd get the 26" if I rode my mountain bike in hard fast conditions, but that's what the 'crosser is for. If you want a fast rolling semislick for hard conditions that still has some off-road grip, this is a good choice. The wire bead version adds a bit of weight but saves a ton of cash, and otherwise the performance is the same. 5 overall, 5 for value (wire bead). At $40, the Kevlar-beaded Pro version would only get a 3 for value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grand Pooh Bear
a Weekend Warrior
from Rhode Island Date Reviewed: March 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Arcadia
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Narragansett Bikes
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance. Good grip for such low profile knobs.
Weaknesses:
Somewhat rapid wear.
Similar Products Used:
Conti Pro 1 and 2's, Conti Cross Country (1.95's) Michelin Wildgripper, Ritchey Omega and Megabite
Bike Setup:
STP frame with a motley collection of 90's exotic parts.
Bottom Line:
The tires work quite well. I was originally skeptical of semi-slick tires for trail riding. A few rides put most of my fears to rest. I have noticed more slippage than I would like in situations requiring much traction. However, I get more than I ever would have imagined and they corner nicely as far as I'm concerned. Being a total weight weenie, they have provided a good compromise. Nice and light with good traction. I must say, though, that I would switch back to Comp Pro 1 and 2's in a heartbeat if Conti ever decided to produce them again. Hands down, those old Comps have been best MTB tire I have ever used, despite their lead-like weight. I don't think they ever slipped on anything. Why did Conti ever discontinue such a good thing?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don Pyle
a Racer
from Oslo, Norway Date Reviewed: February 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light weight, low rolling resistance, does not puncture like others
These are the best tires I have experienced, both from the performance and protection against punctures perspectives. I highly recommend them to anyone who rides half on asphalt and half on hardpack.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martijn
a Cross Country Rider
from H.I.Ambacht Date Reviewed: February 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
www.bike2build.nl
Strengths:
Insane grip even when wet, fast and light
Weaknesses:
Not verry puncture-proof, but using it with Conti Latex tubes it's not much of a problem now.
Similar Products Used:
Conti Explorer Supersonic and Conti Grand-Prix MTB slick's
Bike Setup:
Cube Airwing Blackline, all XTR shifting, HS33 brakes, King/CX-Ray spokes/X618 ceramic rims, Thomson seat and post, Sid Shox and Conti Twister/Explorer Supersinic tires with Latex tubes.
Bottom Line:
Great tire, insane grip and even when wet huge grip! Even great in mud, and great mud clearence. Super light (365gr for a Twister Supersonic) and easy to put on your rims. Not verry puncture proof but OK for off the road use, on the road they tend to wear rather quick. The have verry low rolling resitance you you go verry fast verry easy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
deorext
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: October 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Starr Pass, AZ trail (Bellota Ranch)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Very fast on pavement (with air pressure at 60 psi), knobs do not seem to be wearing at all. Hooks up great on the dry surfaces here in AZ, even some loose climbs (seated). Great on the descents with the Team Control, never broke loose and gives a very forgiving ride on my hardtail. Very light.
Weaknesses:
I don't think I would use this on the front, unless there was not much sand. For pure road use, I would prefer a higher pressure (like the 80 psi on my Specialized tires), however I understand the theories out there in tire design and casing designs. I will stick with the Team Control for front use.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Mach SS, Specialzed Dirt Baldy, Corratec (remember those?) Slicks, WTB Racing Raptor set
Bike Setup:
Trek 970, Girvin Crosslink Elite fork, WTB SST-X2 saddle, LX/XT parts, LX cantis, Salsa brake booster, Continental Twister kevlar bead rear tire (not Twister Pro), Specialized Team Control Team Edition front tire, Continental tubes with Innovations kevlar sealant
Bottom Line:
I own the standard kevlar bead Twister, not the Twister Pro. It may be that Conti uses a harder compound on the standard tire than the pro's, since I have yet to see wear on my tire. The compound is so hard that I have been scraped by the tire and drawn blood. Anyway, this tire has been the best I've ever owned for all terrain use. Rolls fast, grips well in turns and in most dry conditions. I have pondered using the tire in front for smoother corses and running a Specialized Dirt Baldy in the back, but never seen the need to. Perhaps it does not peform well in wet conditions, but it has not rained enough here lately in Southern AZ to test that out. I ride in some pretty nasty areas for getting flats (arroyos, along rairoad grades, narrow rocky trails, etc.) and aside from getting a rather large thorn in my tire once, I have never had a problem with flats (thanks in a large part to the Innovations Sealant). Reccomendation: try it as a rear tire in dry conditions. The Conti Twister will not dissapoint!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Swamp Monster
a Cross Country Rider
from Perth / Western Australia. Date Reviewed: September 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Eastern Hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Bikeforce
Strengths:
Very light,Minimal rolling resistance,Good traction for a tire with such a low knob height.Generous casing volume for a 1.9
Weaknesses:
Expensive in this country.Much better as a rear tire than the front,Wears out a little quicker than it should.
This review is for the Conti Twister Pro (SUPERSONICS) which isn't in the review list. I've weighed these tires on my electronic scales and they are 385 grams per tire,incredibly light.I havn't had too many problems with pinch flatting due to the 45/50 psi pressure I run, but this is an issue at lower pressures depending on your body weight.They'll grip a lot better than you think .Best used in the rear with a Conti Explorer on the front for general riding but used both front and rear for racing purposes. This would have to be about the best allround racing tire available.The biggest downer being wear rate due to it having very little knob height to begin with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don Pyle
a Cross Country Rider
from Oslo Norway Date Reviewed: September 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Safle, Sweden
Strengths:
Light, no flats!
Weaknesses:
None observed
Similar Products Used:
Diverse low weight semi-slicks
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F1000SL
Bottom Line:
After trying a series of Michelin, Ritchey and a couple of others, I tried this as a last resort. I don't mind fixing a flat tire once in a while, but I was experiencing at least one on each ride! I have ridden on these Connies from April to September 2002 without a single puncture. I don't know why, but I am eternally grateful.
P.S. they have good traction too, which is important here in Norway where the climate can be a bit wet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William Hilow
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: September 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Plenty of em,
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$13.00
Purchased At:
Marin Swap meet on June 22nd
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, Look great!
Weaknesses:
6 months of use and the rear one is bald! Do not lock the wheels.
Similar Products Used:
Plenty
Bike Setup:
Rainer SE. Race Face Cranks. Pretty much all stock.
Bottom Line:
Uh, These things are going bald and fast! Absolutely scary at any speed in a corner. They feel disconnected at the apex like you have hit the limits of adhesion. You can feel the rim cleary loading to the outside of the turn. Like being in a car speeding into a turn only to realize that you are seriously unsteering into the on-coming lane and being too chicken to sinply crank the wheel. Tried adjusting the tire pressure. Better handling at lower 40-35 psi.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Indianapolis IN Date Reviewed: August 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Gnaw Bone
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Indy Bicycle Garage
Strengths:
suprisingly very well on climbs
Weaknesses:
Contrary to some of these other reviews I think the tire sucks in the mud. I just rode in the mud Sunday. It does not shed mud very well. I did ot buy it for that reason I just happen to get caught in a bad storm. Usually very dry in Indiana this time of year. Unlike some dumb a&%***** I know what the product is intended for.
Similar Products Used:
Lots of them Panaracer, Continental, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR/XC
Bottom Line:
Great Tire for dry hardpack conditions will not let you down. I really dont believe in a great all cond tire I have yet to find it at least. If it is a little wet no big deal just slop. I would recommend it to anyone and would probably buy again. I weight 195 and can run 38PSI in the back
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jippy
a Cross Country Rider
from Kinnear's Mills Date Reviewed: July 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Malorie's Trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$16.00
Strengths:
Light, super fast and predictable with a low rolling resistance and an incredible grip on hard stuff. Shed dirt very well too without mess. The best tire arround for that job. Unbeatable quality for such a low price. fit front and rear as you flip rotation direction.
Weaknesses:
Can handle sand,mud and loose terrain well but at the cost of a significantly reduced speed. Climbing in these conditions can be problematic too if you don't put enough weight on the rear wheel.
Bike Setup:
CCM Cliffrunner II (4/5), Manitou SXR 00 fork(5/5), Cane Creek AD-12 rear shock(5/5), Shimano mixed Deore and LX drivetrain(4/5), Avid SD 7 brakes(5/5), Koski stem(5/5), Race Face Low Riser handlebars(5/5), Rigida AS-26 36H rims(5/5), FSA Orbit XL II headset (5/5)
Bottom Line:
A must have for the high speed XC maniacs. Use them for hard terrain wet or dry. You won't find any better for rock, hardpack and grass. They work well in woodland too. They shed dirt and handle wet roots nicely.
Get other tires (rear at least)for loose terrain like sand, river bed, rolling pebbles or if you have to climb hard. GEAX blade 185-200 or Conti Survival Pro works great...
Take the Protection version for tougher sidewalls. The rigid version is a bit heavier but still light at 560g and incridibly low priced.
This tire will make you fly ahead of the race in the ideal conditions. I can only recommend it strongly!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Francis Carney
a Cross Country Rider
from NE, Ohio Date Reviewed: July 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Vultures Knob....Mohican....Buckeye (?)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$39.00
Purchased At:
Century Cycle
Strengths:
Lightweight, all round performance.
Weaknesses:
See below.
Similar Products Used:
Is there anything to compare?
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Tanasi, XTR, Easton CF Bars & Post, Raceface HS, BB & CS, Frog Speedplay pedals, Rolf Propell wheelset, Magura Raceline D brakes, Selle Italia Flite Saddle
Bottom Line:
Phenomenal tire, BUT beware of pinch flats for riders 180+ when using the regular TwisterPro! If you weigh more than this then take it from me, choose the Twister ProTection instead (and live with the +10 grams of additional weight). I have both the TwisterPro & Twister ProTection and there is a BIG difference. The reinforced sidewall of the ProTection not only provides additional puncture resistance it also dramatically reduces the incidence of pinch flats.
Let me tell you, this tire hooks up in all manner of conditions and "rolls/glides" like a well-honed skaters blade on ice. You can use these as pair, front & back but again, if you’re a heavyweight pay attention to the recommended PSI for the ass-ward wheel and don’t be afraid to run a little lower on the front, especially if it’s slippery and you’re capable of handling the front-end, deftly.
Also, I unequivocally agree with Greg from Franklin, WI.... these tires perform in conditions (wet & slick) beyond specifications. Ohio (like Wisconsin) when damp, can dish out some pretty nasty riding and out of sheer laziness (didn’t want to swap out no f’n tires) I've discovered the excellent wet-weather and mud-shedding characteristics of this tire.
As a result, my Conti Traction Pro's are now relegated to snow & ice duty only.
Factor in good form and bike handling and any terrain (expect perhaps inch deep gravel) is fair game for these beauties.
Bottom line.... these rubbers are light, (very light), fast (very fast), durable (buy the ProTection version), versatile and race-worthy….honestly I don’t think you can go wrong!! (buy the ProTection version).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jez Heaton
a Cross Country Rider
from Auckley, England Date Reviewed: June 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything smooth & twisty!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Halfords
Strengths:
Amazing speed on the road to my fave trails compared with my old 2.1 Velociraptors. V Good grip on hardpack and dusty muck, given the small knobs.
Weaknesses:
Front washed out a bit on greasy tarmac (what tyre wouldn't though?)
Similar Products Used:
raptors/smoke-dart/duster pros/
Bike Setup:
Diamond Back topanga/indy XCs/nowt spesh
Bottom Line:
I think these are superb for the type of rider I am - nothing too extreme, just regular dirt trails. I was pissed off wrecking Raptors riding roads to get to the dirt - these are perfect for a mix of road and dirt.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Willy Grits
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: June 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
GG Park after dark,
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$13.00
Purchased At:
Marin Swap meet on June 22nd
Strengths:
Twister Pro 1.9 Black Casing with Gray-ish tread area. Seems like a great tire. I think mine are kevlar? How can you tell the difference? I only paid $25 for the set. Went home installed them on my Giant Rainer SE which was shod with WTB DNA Nano's. which where fine for about the first summer. My initial ride was from my home in the Richmond d. to Crissy field. Must less rolling resistance than a full on knob. The change from the 2.0 to these was great!!!! Lots of city riding dodging cars and these tires are quick and responsive. 2mph faster than my best time going down lincoln st. to the GG Bridge overpass. 50mph. Hairy? Heck Yes! These are swappo specials, Who knows what your getting. They may be counterfeit, who knows how long they were sitting around??
Weaknesses:
Don't know, find out tomorrow when we do the old Firehouse road in Marin.
Bike Setup:
Stock Rainer SE, Picked up a set of Race Face Cranks at the meet too. Thats it!
Bottom Line:
Seem like a nice tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joseph barnwell
a Racer
from jacksonville, al, us Date Reviewed: March 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
ironlegs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$9.00
Purchased At:
performance bicycle
Strengths:
very good cornering and tracksion in all conditions. great climbing ability and awsome cornering in slick condition.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
wtb velocirapters
Bike Setup:
98 caloi comp w/easten bar, rithcy stem, thompson post. lx,xt group w/ ritchy pro willset and xt hubs. twister pro rear explorer pro front.
Bottom Line:
a great tire for areasonable price. and i love it. if you are a cross country racer you should buy this tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Franklin, WI Date Reviewed: September 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Crystal Ridge
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Wares
Strengths:
Traction! Climbing and Cornering. Low rolling resistance. Light Weight. Price for the wire bead version. Sheds mud and provides more traction on a wet trail than it looks like it should.
Weaknesses:
Makes the front end push a bit when cornering if the trail is slick.
Similar Products Used:
Semi Slicks and Knobbed tires by IRC and WTB
Bike Setup:
'00 Lg. GF Sugar 2 with custom "Donner Blue"paint job. Thomson seat post, Icon stem, Club Roost Riser Bar. Sram 9.0SL drive train. Bontrager race lite cranks. Avid V brakes. The rest stock. Under 26# for a large.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to a previous posting. These tires perform better than they look like they should. They can be used both front and rear on most trails here in Wisconsin. When more steering traction is need (wet or loose conditions) put the Explorer on the front. For you bigger guys, 180lbs+, if you can give up some rotational weight, use a thicker tube so you don't have to run super high pressure to avoid pinch flates. It seems to be working well for me since I am in this category and run 40#F/45#R. Bottom line is they work well and are great tires where hardpack is the majority of the trail. 5 for performance as a semi slick and 5 for value in the wire bead version. 2 Questions to throw out there... Does anyone know why the folding versions are noted as having less rolling resistance than the wire beads on their packaging? How do the Escapes work as a rear tire in wet/loose conditions? Cheers!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Clements
a Racer
from Tassie Date Reviewed: September 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any without dogs and old ladies~
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1.00
Purchased At:
Deadly Treadly's
Strengths:
These tires are light, grippy, FAST, and, well they look fairly swanky as well.
Weaknesses:
A small thorn pierced the side wall, but any tire would do that! Needs a 2.0, for a little more air volume. Tread pattern is awsome.
Similar Products Used:
Syncros 1.9 semi-slick.
Bike Setup:
Old Trek, crap!!!
Bottom Line:
I raced on these tires in the mud, and despite their apperance, they griped like SH%T to a blanket! Everyone had xc mud tires, and they clogged up, cos it woz like clay stuff and that. And mine shedded the mud so well, they left traks all over the race course. they were a little slippery on the climbs, but stay seated, chuck it in middle, and power up. If you have the $$$ get the kevlar ones, but the wire ones i've got are fine. Dont ever walk past these tires, if you do; I will buy them!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Cross Country Rider
from Sweden Date Reviewed: September 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Strengths:
Extremely fast, still amazing handling in technical terrain.
Weaknesses:
Light version is expensive like hell. Probably wears out quite fast. Cheap version is unbalanced.
Similar Products Used:
Tioga semislick, IRC Mythos XC 1.95, a whole bunch of Specialized XC tires, Nokian Fat Hakka, Continental Vertical. And some older strange stuff back in the days..
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR, Marzocchi, discs
Bottom Line:
This tire is quite amazing. I got the cheap-ass version with wire, for about $15. That's cheap for any tire that works at all. I guess that the crappy form of the tire, it's not perfectly cast, is the price you pay when you get a tire for 1/3 of any other descent tire. And the wire, of course. But despite the wire, the weight is the same as any other.
The ride. It's just great. I've never been so fast on the hardpack and asphalt. I just rode my first ride with them (5 hrs, all kinds of riding included except DH). In the technical singletracks with roots and rocks, flat, climbing or descending, they provide almost perfect control. Of course, they don't provide the comfort of for example the Vericals as you've got to pump quite a hard pressure into them to avoid flats. But you get used to it fast. And with full suspension, it matters less.
They really impress with their grip even on wet roots and rocks. The side knobs does a great job when in rocky stuff, and disappear when on hardpack.
They also clear themselves from mud immediately thanks to the tiny knobs.
I will keep using these for a long time and get new when they wear out. I'll give them a beating on my other top-technical trail. If they can handle that, they can do it all and I'll throw the Verticals down in the garage permanently.
And hey, look for the wire version! It's a steal!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Sweden Date Reviewed: August 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Sportson
Strengths:
Light and fast
Weaknesses:
They wear out rather fast
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones
Bike Setup:
Trek
Bottom Line:
These tires are very fast on hardpack. They are relatively good in mud-conditions however they wear out relatively fast. I use these tires with the Maxxis Flyweight Tube (85 gr) so my bike became about 1 kg lighter when I changed from the Bontrager Jones and the standard Tubes. I don't think I will find something that is significantly better than these tires ....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clint Johnson
a Racer
from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Date Reviewed: July 5, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Bike Doctor
Strengths:
Light, cheap, rolls really quickly
Weaknesses:
Wears out too quickly, grip is the greatest, not meant for bigger riders
Similar Products Used:
Conti ProComp 2, WTB Enduro Raptor
Bike Setup:
'00 Kona Blast with XT, RaceFace, and Manitou Spyder R
Bottom Line:
Not the greatest. At first I thought it was great, then I realized it wasn't great for bigger riders(I'm 210lbs). I spun out all the time on it. I'm getting Panaracers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Missoula, MT Date Reviewed: June 14, 2001
I liked this tire so much on the rear, ditched my semi-slik. Today I put one on the front and will try it out. Great all around tire so far. Very fast. Price was resonable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Franklin Date Reviewed: June 10, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Wares
Strengths:
Light weight - under 500 gram for the wire bead version. Very good traction. Excellent transitional feel from straight line to leaning cornters
Weaknesses:
A bit of front tire washout. Price for the folding versions. Not as much of an issue with the wire beads.
These tires work very well on the back end of the bike and OK on the front. A mate at the LBS said the Conti Twister/ Explorer Pro set up is exceptioanl. Borrowed an IRC Mythos XC on the front mated with the Twister on the back as the test for this. Felt pretty good so have a Explorer Pro on order for the front.
Buy as a back tire for almost all types of riding where pedaling speed is a benefit(racing / most Wisconsin riding) because it will handle the occasional technical stuff as well. 5 as a back 3 as a front. 5 as a value (wire bead)4 overall. Cheers!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross Country Rider
from Leiden, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: June 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
dune tracks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
www.bike2build.com
Strengths:
Since these are the Supersonics, the weight is their main strength at 330 g. the piece for a full 1.9" (yes, I weighed them myself). Another benefit is the very low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
They are said to be less durable. We'll see.
Similar Products Used:
Onza Rip/Rail, Ritchey Megabite, Specialized, etc.
Bike Setup:
Fat Chance Yo Eddy with all the goodies: 20.5 lbs
Bottom Line:
If you're looking for a good tire with a low rolling resistance and good cornering, give these a shot. When you want your tires to be durable, try the Pro version instead of the Supersonics. Remember to follow the right directioning for the front/rear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cornelius
a Cross Country Rider
from Lueneburg , Lower Saxony , Germany Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Heide and Street
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Bikediscount Internet
Strengths:
Smooth running , Very good Grip , very light ( 460 g )
Weaknesses:
not yet found ( may be to short time )
Similar Products Used:
IRC Notus XC 2.1
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F600 original Equipment
Bottom Line:
They sold me the F600 and F700 with the IRC Notus XC 2.1 . But the tire was to slow and did not run smooth and it did not had enough grip on ascending sandy/small stones tracks . After reading Continentals Internet Infos and here in MTBR Reviews and talking to some other people i bought the Twister Protection which did not have these weaknesses .I use it with a Schwalbe Extra Light 130 g SV 14 Tube .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richie Rich
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Kettle Moraine
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$54.00
Purchased At:
Local shop
Strengths:
Excellent grip in all but the most technical,rocky sections.Climbs and rolls very fast.Works suprisingly well in mud.
Weaknesses:
When used on front,sometimes washes out in wet conditions,but never beyond the rider's limits.Expensive at $54 a pop.Doesn't last more than 10 months to a year under hard riding(I average 50 off-road miles a week).A little narrow.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Smoke/Dart,Fire XC Pro,Michelin Hot-S
Bike Setup:
Custom Seven Sola Ti
Bottom Line:
These are great tires for Midwest riding conditions.I am suprised by how well they hold out in mud.However,I don't know how much longer mine are going to last:They are 3/4 worn-out after 6 months.And these suckers are pricey!I'll give them 4 chilies overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Schiltz
a Racer
from Boulder, CO. Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Buffalo Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Cutting Edge Sports
Strengths:
Lightweight, corners well in almost all conditions considering the low profile tread. Continental quality.
Weaknesses:
When used on both the front and rear, the front washes out in really loose corners, but considering the type of tire, that is to be expected.
Similar Products Used:
Michelin Wildgrippers, Bontrager Revolt
Bike Setup:
Dean Ti hardtail, RaceFace crankset and handlebar, Noleen MegaAir fork,Thompson seatpost Bontrager Race Modified wheelset, XT deraillers, Body Geometry seat.
Bottom Line:
I am very pleased with the way these tires handle. They hook up excellent on all but the loosest conditions, and are super fast on hardpack. The lightweight is definitely a plus, and compared with other tires this weight they seem like they are reliable. But I have only had them for a day, so I guess we will see. I don't think these tires are for the "weekend warrior", but for a racer looking for a lightweight, hardpack tire this is the tire for them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett
a Racer
from Placentia, Ca Date Reviewed: May 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
San Juan
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Light weight, great traction for such a light tire
Weaknesses:
Price, fast wearing, race day tire only
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight full xtr, sid sl.
Bottom Line:
Raced on these tires for the first time last weekend. I was a bit hesitant on purchasing these but now think I made a great choice. They are very light and still provide excellent traction especially cornering. I pushed these tires hard the entire 18 miles of the race and was never dissapointed. I plan on using these tires the entire racing season. I don't recommend training with them as the wear quickly and it's to expensive of a tire to burn up on training rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from Kivik, Skane, Sweden Date Reviewed: May 1, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very low rolling resistance and still the grip is so good! I have tested them in mud and it wasn't to bad. They are very affordable.
Weaknesses:
Actually i have had two flats in less then a month. It might not be the tires fault. The first time i flatted was when i accidently ran over some barbwire and the other time was a really tough ride.
Similar Products Used:
Cheng Tires(some Taiwan thing), Schwalbe and Continental Alligator.
Bike Setup:
Parkpre, SRAM 7.0 V Brakes, Shimano LX in the front and Shimano Deore in the back 7 speed(yes 7 speed :)), Spinergy SM-3 rims.
Bottom Line:
Affordable tire and great grip and rolling resistance. Contintental quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamison Stachel
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft. Atkinson Date Reviewed: April 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
any single track
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Spokes
Strengths:
Very impress with low rolling resistant. It felt like someone had taken off the brakes.I weigh 190# and never flatted with them yet.Maybe I'm just lucky but I have complete faith in them both pucture resistant and for traction.
Weaknesses:
They do wear quickly at first but after 300+ miles they just stay the same. High pressure and smooth lines is the key
Similar Products Used:
Kosmik lites(worst tire out there)
Bike Setup:
X-large sugar
Bottom Line:
I ride all different terrain from central WI all the way to NC and these tires just work. I was sticker shocked at 40 bucks a piece but they are well worth it.Don't be fooled by the limited traction there is plenty. Give them a try. Thanks Sammy
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Gadd
a Cross Country Rider
from Leeds, West Yorkshire, England Date Reviewed: April 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Stiff, Leeds
Strengths:
Very Light!
Weaknesses:
Disapointment 4 punctures in 4 rides on the road!
Similar Products Used:
Gone back to Cross Countries, even though the Twister is for road use!
Bike Setup:
Pace hardtail with Pace Evo II forks.
Bottom Line:
They are Twister Supersonics which do not appear on the reviews or Continental website. Are they the same? I am also using the Continental Lightweight inner tubes with them which have not suffered any punctures with the Cross Country's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jaime Marum
a Racer
from Dallas, Texas, USA Date Reviewed: January 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Thr Breaks at Bar H Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$41.00
Purchased At:
Wheels and Fitness in Motion
Strengths:
FAST!!! Rolls like a slick, corners like a knobby.
Weaknesses:
Wears quickly.
Similar Products Used:
Conti-Fighter, Revolt-Super X, Maxxis-Mimo.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F900, Fatty D w/air, Cane Creek wheels, XTR crank, Speedplay Frogs, Twister Pro's!.
Bottom Line:
This is the fastest tire I have ridden. Although they wear quickly, I will continue to use them. The handling benefits far out weigh the cost. I use them in all conditions, but here in Texas that does not include much wet rooty terrain. Mostly loose hard pack mixed with sandy rocky terrain. I weigh 155 and usually run pressure around 58#. I trust the hook up capabilities of these tires like no other! Get a pair and fly! If you need a little more traction, try an Explorer on the front.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Till Kampmann
a Cross Country Rider
from Bad Hersfeld, Germany Date Reviewed: August 31, 2000
never gone that fast! as long as you remember that this I S a semi-knobby, you´ll never mind.! no real weaknesses, if you don´t touch the brake in loose and muddy conditions! I´m using it in long-distance-races. buy the cheapest black version, more durable!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lukasz Rewerenda
a Cross Country Rider
from Gliwice, Poland Date Reviewed: August 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
closed military areas :-)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
They look nice.
Weaknesses:
A WAY too thin and soft, no use for difficult tracks Not as fast as semislicks should be
Good tires if you plan to use them on asphalt or concrete, otherwise -- the very WORST I've ever used: each rock may cause a snake bite -- I've caught 10 snakes in one week of uphilling in local mountains. This can be avoided by pumping them rock-hard, 4+ atm, but in this conditions they are both unpredictable and uncomfortable. Very dissapointed about these tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Greensboro, NC Date Reviewed: August 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
light free
Weaknesses:
wear fast
Similar Products Used:
lots
Bike Setup:
SX-R & hardtail
Bottom Line:
These were Special Werx demo tires from the shop. Best for slightly moist to almost dry trail conditions. I ride them just to play around on on familiar trails that I can anticipate every climb, since they don't climb as well as other tire sets. I tried the twister front and explorer pro rear, then traded the explorer pro for another twister. F&R I dont feel as stable through fast technical stuff... they slip out sideways rather soon.
They are ok for trail under 3.5 difficulty. More than that and I get stuck on log piles, and climbs with high exposed tree roots.
Mostly just a toy for rides when I dont feel like riding cleanly over everything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alessandro
a Racer
from Italy Date Reviewed: July 31, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Dolomiti
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light, fast, not too small
Weaknesses:
not durable, you have to use on the front only in dry conditions.
DBR TT Pro titanium, SID, XT, Bontrager, FRM, Selle Italia Novus, PMP, Race face.
Bottom Line:
Exist the perfect tire for all conditions? I think NO! For dry conditions is a very good front/rear tire. For wet conditions use it ONLY on the rear. On my last wet race it's seems to be on ice (expecially on wet stones): the rear was OK, the front was KO.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joe
a Cross Country Rider
from irvine,ca. USA Date Reviewed: July 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
strawberry peak
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Almost as much grip as a full-on knobby, very very light, very very fast.
Weaknesses:
price
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Revolt Super X, RevoltST-2; Specialized Dirt control and Master.
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Ocoee with RS SID SL
Bottom Line:
Great tires! Great traction for a semi-slick. Better grip than many full knobbies. The tread pattern and light weight make for a fats tire. Will break loose uphill on loose dry dirt that's over hard-pack if one's pedal stroke isn't smooth otherwise, you can hammer on almost any incline and surface. They seem to be wearing fine (my riding is partially on asphalt). Great on corners as they have knobs on the edges. Overall awesome tires for almost all conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Racer
from Honolulu,HI,U.S.A. Date Reviewed: July 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ditch trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Rolling resistents, climbing,and good desender.
Weaknesses:
Does not come in a 2.0 to run on the front
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager revols
Bike Setup:
Trek 8500 stock w/twister1.9 rear and Conty Explorer 2.0 front
Bottom Line:
I work at the Bikefactory here in Honolulu and our Continental Rep gave me a Twister Pro and an Explorer Pro to try out for Conty's Special Werx Project.This set up is great.useing the Twister in the rear in the direction specified.With a 1.9 rear the tire digs in really well.They are great in the mud,Because as soon as you start rolling the mud starts to fly off.The tread is really low profile which make it roll great on hard pack trails.Using the Continental Explorer Pro 2.0 in front which is a little meatier gives the bike a very secure fill.Both tires corner very predictable and felt right at home on the downhills.The only thing I did not like about this set up is that the Twister Pro does not come in a 2.0 which I think would work very well on select race course.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad
a Weekend Warrior
from Issaquah Date Reviewed: June 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Tiger Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light weight, great traction, low rolling reistance, smooth ride.
Weaknesses:
Pricy.
Similar Products Used:
I'm a tire freak-Specialized, Bontrager, Continental, to name a few.
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Unicoi/XTR/517 Ceramic 3x to Kings/Marzocchi Z2
Bottom Line:
I'm running this tire on the front, in the direction stated on the sidewall, and can't belive the traction it provides, even over roots and rocks and through mud. The numerous small tread blocks across the center sectior really bite, and seem to shed mud amazingly well. As you lean the bike over in the corners, the longer blocks on the sides seem to come into play. I've ridden this tire very fast on hardpack dirt, gravel, roots and rocks and have not found a flaw. Tiger Mtn. has lots of roots and rocks, and especially on the roots, the tire just rolls over. No slipping or sliding. In fact, on the last ride I tried to make the tire slide off roots and was really challenged to make it do so. On the few occaisions when it did slide, it hooked up almost immediately, certainly much faster that the Bontrager Jones or Specialized Team Control Team I'm used to. I'm planning on getting another for the rear. At this point, I don't see any reason these can't go on the bike immediately after my mud setup comes off.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gregor Sluga
a Cross Country Rider
from Ljubljana, Slovenia, Europe Date Reviewed: June 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
St. Jakob near Ljubljana
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very fast, predictable, low rolling resistance at 50 PSI, very good traction at lower pressure (35 PSI), extremely low price (20 $) in Slovenia, very durable.
Weaknesses:
Noone for my style of riding (cross country in humid conditions). Maybe to narrow and too small knobs for extremely free riding in wet conditions. But these tires are not intended for such conditions.
Fantastic fast tyre at higher pressures for mixed terrain at dry conditions. Absolutely no slide at ascending at lower pressures and extremely predictable and reliable at descending even at high speed (30 mph). Fast response and also good suspension on singletracks and fireroads. Practically the same riding qualities like Hutchinson Pyton Gold (but three times cheaper!!!)I will try recommended combination with Conti Explorer on the front wheel for more difficult conditions (wet, muddy singletracks and roots in the forest). Really amazing tyre for every pocket and serious riders, also amateur racers!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cory Wallace
a Racer
from Jasper, AB, Canada Date Reviewed: May 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Canmore World Cup
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Super light (440 grams), Awesome semi-slick tire with good grip and excellent speed. The ultimate racing tire. Good Wear and still no flats.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Michelin lite s, Hutchinson Geax, Tioga Factory semi-slick, Kona Break and Enter, Ritchey Speedmax
Bike Setup:
2000 Kona Kula with Cane Creek Yellow Wam Wheels
Bottom Line:
If your a racer and you want a tire which is super fast and has just enough grip to give you the confidence you need on sketchy downhills, BUY THESE TIRES. The ultimate tire combination for a race in almost any conditions is the Continental Explorer Pro on the front and a Continental Twister Pro on the back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Wallace
a Cross Country Rider
from State College PA Date Reviewed: May 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Powerlines in Scotia
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great traction very durable tread light weight silica middle gives longer life
Weaknesses:
price is high very narrow - for rear use only light weight - questionable casing strength
I won a set of these tires from Conti for sending them a picture of me riding. When I first got them, I wondered if I should have gone withe ExplorerPros instead. They;re very narrow (conti says 1.9, and they're not lying). I got the Pro version, with a grey silica rubber in the middle, but at $54 each, i probably wouldn't buy them. I was running Firepro 2.1's front and rear, which were good, but didn't roll fast on hardpack. Once things dried up around here, I mounted a twister on the rear (I think they're too narrow for the front, plus most rolling resistance is in the rear). I rode it in a variety of conditions for about 10 miles, and just did a practice race (3 laps, 9+ miles) on it. Compared to the Firepro, I dropped about a minute and a half on the course, and still had great traction (actually, I stayed up through a corner where I washed with the rear firepro), and felt like I kept more speed. I'm sure the weight loss didn't hurt, but mostly i think it was the tiny knobs of the twister. There are several rocky sections on the loop, where the twister did bounce a bit, but never slid off or anything unpredictable. In loose soil, it held through corners and drifted nicley when the rear brake was feathered. I'd be nervous on loose descents, but luckily this course only has one, and it's short. There's a nice slalomy section we call "tapeworm", where the course loops around between trees. It basically packs as much trail into a small space as possible, meaning there's no straight sections really, just corners. You have time for one pedal stroke before you need to stand on the outside pedal again. The twister held so well here, I was amazed. The firepro was good, as I'd expect, but the twister held as well or better, even over the tree-roots. By the second lap, I was comfortable with the drift, and was carrying more speed through the section. Right after tapeworm, there's a sandy climb that I expected to wash out in, but the twister sank down and bit into the soil below. I imagine it would work the same in mud, too. Overall, I'm very impressed with this tire, and would recommend it for anything but rock-gardens. I tried a rocky section, but the tire is just too small to feel in control. I have to give it four chilis for value, since you can get 1.8 firepros for $25 or so, but overall, it's a five-chili.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Markus Rosemann
a Cross-Country Rider
from Heidelberg, Germany Date Reviewed: December 1, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Grip and speed combined: Great tire for more humid conditions
Weaknesses:
Little bit heavy
Similar Products Used:
Continental Double fighter
Bike Setup:
Marin Bear Valley SE, Manitou shocks
Bottom Line:
The tire is a good combination of grip and speed.
Overall Rating:
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