Graphene, that atomic-scale super material that promises to revolutionise everything from batteries to robots, is already improving the cycling world. Vittoria’s new graphene-infused Mezcal and Morsa bike tyres are lightweight, thin, grippy and everything a cyclist wants in a tyre without any tradeoffs.
Choosing what tyres to put on your bike usually depends on the conditions in which you’ll be riding. Larger tyres provide better grip and durability, but add weight to a bike, while smaller tyres are lighter and sleeker but wear out faster and provide minimal traction.
But by adding graphene — that wonder new material made of carbon atoms arranged in a strong honeycomb pattern — Vittoria’s new G+, or Graphene Plus, tyres exhibit wonderful new properties. When riding on straightaways, the dual-layer makeup of the G+ tyres allows them to remain firm for lower rolling resistance and added speed. But when a cyclist is braking or cornering, the tyres get soft for added traction and grip.
Furthermore, even though the added graphene is just a few atoms thick, almost non-existent, the Vittoria’s new tyres are also far more resilient. The company won’t specify just how many kilometres you can get from a new set, as riding style varies from cyclist to cyclist. But it’s yet another reason to justify upgrading your current tyres.
[Vittoria via Popular Science]