Continental gravel range goes wider, adds new Terra Hardpack model
Continental gravel range goes wider, adds new Terra Hardpack model
German tyre titan Continental has expanded its well-regarded gravel line-up with a new model “ideal for bikepacking adventure”. The Terra Hardpack is tubeless ready and is launching in a chunky 50 mm width (both 650b and 700c).
The new tyre, as you can probably figure out from the name, is designed for relatively well-made surfaces – or, in Continental’s words, “made to roll on sealed roads, yet gets you safely through the gravel sections.” The central section looks something like a file-tread, getting chunkier on its way across to the sidewall for added cornering grip.
The Terra Hardpack features Continental’s second-tier new PureGrip compound, “an advanced new compound with outstanding grip and cross-country properties” that sits behind the revered BlackChili compound used elsewhere in Continental’s gravel range. That’s paired with a puncture protective layer which should make the Hardpack a relatively resilient bulldozer even when things get chunky.
According to Continental, the 700c Terra Hardpack weighs in at 530 g, with the 650b option at 485 g. We’re waiting to hear back from Continental on pricing.
If those don’t tickle your fancy, then there’s also the interesting announcement that Continental’s Terra Speed and Terra Trail tyres are adding wider widths.
The Terra Speed is a fast-rolling gravel tyre with small blocks of tread, with the Terra Trail offering a somewhat more aggressive tread profile. Both have impressed us at CyclingTips, but have been limited – until now – to the modest widths of 35 or 40 mm (in both 650b and 700c).
Continental will now add a 700 x 45 mm width to the lineup, but those chasing a plush 650 b option will have to look elsewhere. That one still only comes in a 650×40 mm size.
To find out more about the Terra Hardpack, continental-tires.com
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