Pirelli's CINTURATO EVO TLR: The Do-It-All Road Tire We've Been Waiting For?

Pirelli has a knack for making tires that riders talk about, and their CINTURATO Velo has been a popular choice for good reason since it rolled out in 2018. But the cycling world never sits still, and Pirelli isn't one to rest on its laurels. They've just pulled the wraps off its successor, the CINTURATO EVO TLR, and it's not just an update – Pirelli is billing it as the dawn of the "road enduro" tire for bicycles.

So, what does "road enduro" even mean for a bicycle tire? Think versatility. Pirelli is aiming for a tire that feels at home whether you're clocking up miles on smooth tarmac, battling a wet commute, or even dabbling in some light gravel when the mood strikes. The goal seems to be to offer a reliable, high-performance option that doesn't flinch when conditions get tricky or the pavement ends.

What's New Under the Rubber?

The CINTURATO Velo was already known for being tough and dependable. Pirelli says the new EVO TLR keeps those core strengths but dials up the performance in grip, comfort, and how long it lasts.

A big part of this claimed improvement comes down to their new SmartEVO AS compound. According to Pirelli, this is their most advanced rubber blend yet, specifically cooked up for riders who want to feel connected and in control, especially when the roads are wet or the temperatures drop. It's also designed to soak up more vibrations for a smoother ride and go the distance, which is good news for anyone who puts in serious mileage. They're confident this compound delivers "a smooth ride even on rough terrain and in challenging weather conditions."

A Greener Footprint on Two Wheels

It's not just about performance anymore; how our gear impacts the planet matters. Pirelli seems to be taking this seriously. They're stating that over 50% of the materials in the CINTURATO EVO TLR are bio-based and recycled. This isn't just a vague claim either – it's been verified by an independent body, Bureau Veritas, against the ISO 14021 standard.

Even more notably, the natural rubber used in the tire is FSC™ (Forest Stewardship Council™) certified. For those unfamiliar, FSC certification is a big deal. It means the rubber comes from forests managed responsibly, considering environmental impact, biodiversity, and the rights and well-being of workers and local communities. Pirelli proudly states this is an industry first for them. They've even created a new logo (two arrows in a circle) to highlight products meeting this 50%+ sustainable material threshold, which will feature on the new tire.

Motorcycle Smarts for Your Bike

Interestingly, Pirelli looked to its motorcycle division for inspiration, specifically the SCORPION Trail III – a tire also designed for "road enduro" use on motorbikes. They haven't just slapped a motorcycle tread onto a bicycle tire, though. The concept has been adapted.

The CINTURATO EVO TLR's tread pattern, while inspired by its two-wheeled, engine-powered cousin, is re-engineered for cycling. It features a slicker central band, which should mean good rolling efficiency and durability on harder surfaces. The shoulders of the tire are more sculpted, with grooves designed to help the compound find grip on wet or looser surfaces, including light gravel. This design, combined with a new construction, apparently leads to a pretty hefty 40% boost in mileage over the old CINTURATO Velo, without making the tread thicker.

Who Is It For, and When Can You Get It?

Pirelli is positioning the CINTURATO EVO TLR, made in their Milan-Bollate plant in Italy, as a do-it-all tubeless-ready option. Think performance road riding, daily commuting where reliability is key, and those adventures that mix paved roads with unpaved paths. If you like the feel of a slicker tire but want the confidence to explore beyond perfect asphalt, this could be on your radar.

Good news if you're keen: it's reportedly already hitting online stores and bike shops. Initial sizes range from 28mm up to 40mm (28-622 to 40-622), with the 28, 30, and 32mm versions also available in "Classic" and "Retro" looks. For those who want to go wider, 45mm, 50mm, and 55mm versions are planned for later in the season.

The Bottom Line

Pirelli seems to be aiming high with the CINTURATO EVO TLR. They're promising a tire that builds on a successful formula, adds a significant dose of versatility, boosts performance, and does so with a more conscious approach to materials. If it lives up to the hype, it could genuinely be a go-to option for a huge range of riders.