Pirelli P Zero Race RS: Pro-Level Speed Returns to Tube-Type Tires
Explore the Pirelli P Zero Race RS: a new high-performance tube-type road tire offering tubeless-rivaling speed, lighter weight with TPU tubes & FSC-certified rubber.
In an era dominated by the push towards tubeless technology in road cycling, it might seem unusual to focus on a new tire designed specifically for inner tubes. Yet, Pirelli, a brand synonymous with performance, has unveiled the P Zero Race RS tube-type clincher, a tire that challenges the status quo by promising elite-level speed, significantly reduced weight, and freedom from sealant maintenance.
While tubeless setups offer distinct advantages, Pirelli acknowledges a crucial reality: a substantial portion of the cycling market, potentially more than half of their own customer base, still relies on traditional inner tubes. Recognizing this, Pirelli has applied the cutting-edge insights gained from supplying World Tour teams like Lidl-Trek and Alpecin-Deceuninck to develop a superior tube-type option for performance-oriented amateur riders. This isn't about abandoning tubeless; it's about providing a top-tier alternative for those who prefer the simplicity or haven't yet transitioned their wheelsets.
Lightweight Performance Without the Mess
The core appeal of the P Zero Race RS lies in its ability to deliver pro-level technology in a more user-friendly package. Pirelli aimed to create not just a fast tire, but an exceptionally light one. When paired with modern, lightweight TPU inner tubes, such as Pirelli's own SmarTube Evo, the total system weight drops considerably compared to a typical tubeless configuration.
Consider this weight comparison for a 28mm setup:
- P Zero Race RS (Tube-Type): 230g tire + 38g SmarTube Evo TPU tube = 268g per wheel
- P Zero Race TLR RS (Tubeless): 290g tire + ~30g sealant + ~8g tubeless valve = ~328g per wheel
This weight saving of approximately 60g per wheel is significant for riders chasing marginal gains. Crucially, Pirelli asserts that this lighter setup, leveraging the supple nature of TPU tubes, achieves rolling resistance figures very close to their premier tubeless offerings. This promises a ride feel that is both responsive and efficient, delivering speed without the need for sealant management. While independent verification of rolling resistance data is always welcome, the potential for tubeless-level speed in a lighter, simpler package is compelling.
Advanced Technology, Adapted for Tubes
The P Zero Race RS tube-type inherits key technologies from its tubeless sibling, the P Zero Race TLR RS, which Pirelli launched as their "fastest ever cycling tire." It utilizes the same advanced SmartEvo² rubber compound and the identical tread pattern, ensuring proven grip and speed characteristics. The primary 120tpi casing construction is also shared.
However, crucial differences exist to optimize it for use with inner tubes. The tubeless-specific bead and the air-retaining SpeedCore carcass liner are omitted. In their place, Pirelli incorporates a standard clincher bead designed to work securely with an inner tube and adds an anti-puncture belt beneath the tread, providing essential protection for everyday riding robustness. These modifications contribute directly to the weight reduction, making the tube-type version 60g lighter in the 26mm size and up to 65g lighter in the 30mm size compared to its TLR counterpart.
Sustainability Meets Performance: FSC-Certified Rubber
Adding another layer of innovation, the P Zero Race RS, like all cycling tires produced in Pirelli's modern Milan-Bollate factory since mid-2024, features natural rubber that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). While FSC certification is commonly associated with wood and paper products, rubber is also a natural material harvested from trees. Pirelli's commitment involves ensuring that the 14% (by weight) of natural rubber used in these tires comes from forests managed responsibly and sustainably. This commitment extends even to the tire's cardboard packaging, marking a significant step towards more environmentally conscious production in high-performance cycling components.
Important Compatibility Considerations
While offering numerous benefits, potential users need to be aware of specific compatibility requirements and limitations:
- TPU Tube Pairing: To achieve the maximum weight savings and claimed performance benefits, pairing these tires with lightweight TPU inner tubes is recommended.
- Rim Brake Warning: Crucially, TPU inner tubes are generally NOT advised for use with rim brake bicycles. Heat buildup on the brake track during descents can potentially cause TPU tubes to fail. Therefore, the optimal setup (Race RS tire + TPU tube) is best suited for disc brake road bikes.
- Strictly Tube-Type: These tires are NOT tubeless-ready. They lack the specific bead design required for a secure, airtight seal without a tube. Attempting to set them up tubeless is not recommended and potentially unsafe.
- Hooked Rims Only: The P Zero Race RS tires are NOT compatible with hookless rims. They require traditional hooked rims (also known as crochet-type) for safe installation and bead retention. Riders with modern hookless wheelsets must stick to tubeless-ready (TLR) tires, even if they intend to run tubes inside them. Always verify your rim type before purchasing.
Availability, Options, and Pricing
Pirelli offers the P Zero Race RS in sizes commonly found on road bikes, particularly those that might predate the wide-rim trend:
- 26mm: Optimized for 19mm internal width rims (measures approx. 25mm on 17mm rims).
- 28mm: Optimized for 19mm internal width rims (measures approx. 27mm on 17mm rims).
- 30mm: Optimized for 21mm internal width rims (measures approx. 29mm on 19mm rims).
Color options include a standard all-black version, a 'Classic' brown sidewall, and a 'Retro' cream tanwall.
All versions are priced at €80 per tire. To realize the full lightweight potential, riders will also need to purchase compatible TPU tubes, like Pirelli's SmarTube, which typically retail around €30 each.
Conclusion: A High-Performance Choice for the Tube Faithful
The Pirelli P Zero Race RS tube-type tire represents a significant development for cyclists who prefer or require inner tubes but still demand cutting-edge performance. It offers a compelling combination of low weight (especially with TPU tubes), potentially class-leading speed derived from World Tour technology, and the simplicity of a traditional setup, all while incorporating a noteworthy commitment to sustainable materials through FSC certification. For disc brake road cyclists with hooked rims seeking elite performance without the complexities of tubeless sealant, the P Zero Race RS presents a truly attractive and innovative option.
