Challenge Criterium SC Tubular Tyre 700c x 23mm – Black/White

The Challenge Criterium SC Tubular Tyre is built for serious racers who demand the fastest possible setup without compromising ride quality. Handcrafted and designed around a silk-like high‑thread‑count casing, this 700c x 23mm tubular delivers a supremely compliant ride that keeps you smooth through long efforts and brutal sprint finishes alike. The natural rubber tread, produced in Challenge’s own factory in Thailand, provides exceptional grip and a more responsive feel than many synthetic alternatives.

What makes this tubular stand out

• Silk-like high thread count casing for superior suppleness, translating to reduced fatigue and more precise handling on every corner.
• Locally sourced natural rubber tread—delivering enhanced grip and a very linear, predictable feel when you lean into bends, even as pavement imperfections come into play.
• Seamless Latex inner tube—the only seamless latex tube on the market, which minimizes roundness irregularities and improves overall tubeless-like responsiveness. Note: latex installation benefits from an experienced hand to avoid pinch flats.
• Puncture Protection Strip (PPS)—an aramid fabric layer between tread and casing boosts puncture resistance, with PPS2 variants offering extra protection for rough road sections.
• Handmade craftsmanship—each tire is assembled by skilled technicians, avoiding excessive heat treatments to preserve the integrity of the casing and tread for lasting performance.

Performance you can feel on the road

The combination of a high thread-count casing and a seamless latex tube reduces rolling resistance while increasing comfort. The tire’s slight give allows for better surface contact, enhancing grip during aggressive cornering and accelerating out of turns. The natural rubber tread works with the supple carcass to absorb minor road irregularities, delivering stable, confident steering even at high speed on smooth race surfaces.

Ideal use cases

• Club-level to elite road racing, circuit races, and fast training days where every watt counts.
• Criteriums and sprint-focused events on well-maintained asphalt, where precise handling and quick corner exit matter most.
• Riders who value a classic, understated aesthetic in black and white sidewalls that pairs well with a range of rims and kit styles.

Care, installation, and tips for best results

Latex tubes offer outstanding elasticity and puncture protection, but require careful installation. Seek an experienced installer for the first mount to prevent pinch flats. After mounting, regularly inspect the tread for wear and ensure the tire is seated evenly on the rim. For optimal life, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and avoid aggressive heat cycles that can affect the adhesive bond of the tread.

Why choose Euro Cycling NZ

Euro Cycling NZ brings renowned European tubular expertise to riders who demand precision, reliability, and race-ready performance. The Criterium SC embodies this philosophy with handmade quality, careful material selection, and a design tailored to the realities of competitive road cycling—where every gram, grip, and watt matters.