'Specialized Mondo undergoes an upgrade, designed to conquer Strade Bianche, Paris-Roubaix, and any other rough terrain road races'
In the world of cycling, the latest addition to Specialized's arsenal is causing a stir. The new Mondo, a revamped endurance tyre, has proven its mettle during the prestigious 2024 Paris-Roubaix.
Two notable cyclists, Caroline Vermeulen and Jonas Vingegaard, put the Mondo tyres to the test on the challenging cobblestone roads of Paris-Roubaix. Their experiences echoed the extensive testing the tyres underwent at the event.
The Mondo tyres, available in 35mm width, were set up tubeless at home without the need for an air compressor, demonstrating their user-friendly nature. A crisp snap at 35 PSI indicated a tire ready for action.
On the local climb up South Mountain, the Mondo tyres delivered a second-fastest time, only a few seconds off a personal best from 2017. This performance was repeated on the home roads of Phoenix, Arizona, which feature a mix of smooth and choppy pavement.
Weighing approximately 310g for 28mm, 330g in 32mm, and 360g in 35mm, the Mondo tyres offer a balance between weight and durability. They retain the Gripton T2/T5 dual compound for faster rubber at the core, ensuring speed on the road.
However, the Mondo tyres are not your traditional endurance tyres. They offer better all-around options for a broad spectrum of riders and riding surfaces, making them versatile choices.
The Mondo Folding is a clincher option, available in 26, 28, or 32mm width, and priced at $55 / £45. For those seeking a tubeless experience, the Mondo TLR is available in 28, 32, and 35mm widths, priced at $80 / £70.
The Mondo tyres were also tested on the gravel and smooth trails of Papago Park in Tempe, and despite not being a purpose-built gravel tyre, they performed admirably.
The new Mondo tyres retain speed on the road due to the reinforced tread structure, while handling rocks and unevenness of diverse surfaces is managed by the reconfigured sidewall. The Mondo tyres have been designed for endurance riding on various surfaces, including wet roads, choppy pavement, and light gravel.
The Mondo tyres, in their first impression, seem to hit the right balance between speed on the road and control on light gravel, putting them near the top of their class. They are more durable and puncture-resistant due to a strong reinforcement under the rubber tread pattern and a new sidewall guard.
The new Mondo is part of a growing category of "thick slick" tyres, promising an exciting future for endurance cyclists seeking versatile, high-performing tyres. Lotte Kopecky's victory at the 2024 Paris-Roubaix on the Mondo tyres is a testament to their potential.
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