Specialized debuts tubeless cotton road tires

Specialized is well known in the road tire world for both its tubeless performance tires and its high-end, cotton casing clinchers. But both technologies have not been available in the same tire. The new Cotton TLR changes that. The tire features a hybrid poly-cotton casing identical to the clincher-only Cotton Folding Racing Only and Turbo Cotton models and adds tubeless compatibility with both hooked and tubeless straight side (TSS, aka hookless) tubeless rims. That combination is ideal in a performance setting. The 32oTPI casing and Gripton T2/T5 tread compounds from the existing cotton tires offer the likelihood of low rolling resistance, enhanced by the lack of an inner tube. Notably, in a 28 mm size, the tire is only 20 grams heavier than the non-tubeless cotton models. Specialized is also updating sizing options with the new tire, which offers 28, 30 and 32-mm widths. The bead is compatible with both hooked and hookless style rims (within current ISO standards) and Specialized says precision manufacturing should allow lever-free installation. The new tire certainly isn't for everyone. Aside from the US$110 per tire asking price – $20 more than the Cotton Folding Racing Only – Specialized expressly notes that the casing and compound are engineered for riders who are prioritizing rolling resistance, road feel and grip rather than longer-term durability or puncture protection.