Bontrager H2 700x28C Bike Tire Review: Smooth, Eco-Friendly Performance for Pavement and Trails: After logging several hundred miles on my Trek Ion CX using the stock CX0 700x38C Cyclocross tires, I decided it was time for a change. Most of my rides are on paved and crushed limestone trails, so I was looking for something better suited to that terrain. Based on past experiences with Bontrager, I chose the Bontrager H2 Eco Deluxe 700x28C tire as a more road-focused alternative.
Why I Chose the Bontrager H2 Eco Deluxe 700x28C
I wanted a tire narrow enough to improve speed and efficiency, yet still comfortable enough to handle light bumps and trail chatter. The H2 Eco Deluxe 700x28C seemed like a solid middle ground. It features an Aramid bead, a 60 TPI casing, and weighs just 331g. The natural rubber-based Outlast tread compound is made from 15% recycled materials and is claimed to last up to 50% longer than standard rubber compounds.
While the DLX version doesn’t include Bontrager’s signature Hard-Case puncture protection, the tread feels impressively thick — more than adequate for small rocks and occasional thorns. The tread pattern is also designed to help shed water, improving traction in wet conditions.
Installed on Trek Ion CX: First Impressions
I installed the H2 tires on my stock wheels and inflated them to around 75 PSI. Right away, the bike felt more like a hybrid or road bike — noticeably quicker and smoother compared to the bulkier CX0 tires. Although the ride is slightly firmer, it remains comfortable. In fact, the rolling performance felt nearly as smooth as the Bontrager T2 tires I’ve previously tested, even though those run at a higher 120 PSI.
Ride Quality, Speed, and Handling
Cornering on pavement is where these tires really shine. The H2 handled confidently and silently through turns, unlike the CX0, which always felt noisy and vague in fast corners.
Regarding speed, I saw a modest improvement. Over two back-to-back rides on the same course, I averaged about 0.2 mph faster with the H2. While wind and trail conditions could have influenced this, the tires definitely felt more efficient overall.
Bontrager H2 700C Durability and Use Case
In my experience, the H2 strikes a great balance between performance and comfort. It’s ideal for cyclists who primarily ride pavement or light gravel, especially those upgrading from bulkier cross tires. While not as fast as a full road tire like the T2, the H2 is softer, more forgiving, and more versatile.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast rolling and smooth ride
- Thick tread helps resist small punctures
- Eco-friendly Outlast compound with recycled rubber
- Improved handling and cornering over CX tires
- Available in Hard-Case version for thorn protection
Cons:
- Not quite as fast as Bontrager T2 on smooth roads
- No 120 TPI casing option available (yet)
Hard-Case Version for Thorn Resistance
On a recent limestone trail ride, I experienced multiple flats with non-Hard-Case tires. Meanwhile, my friend using the Hard-Case version of the H2 had zero flats — despite both of us riding the same route and pulling out several thorns. The Hard-Case H2 prevented tube punctures entirely. Highly recommended for thorn-prone trails.
Looking for a Bontrager H2 Replacement?
The Bontrager H2 Eco Deluxe 700x28C tire has been discontinued, but there are several high-quality alternatives that match or exceed its performance. Whether you prioritize rolling efficiency, puncture resistance, or all-weather reliability, the following options are excellent replacements for road and crushed limestone trail riding.
Top Recommended Alternatives
- Continental Contact Urban (700×28–32C)
A high-performance touring and urban tire featuring Continental’s PureGrip rubber compound and SafetyPro Breaker layer for superior puncture resistance. It offers smooth rolling, impressive durability, and is e-bike rated up to 50 km/h (31 mph). Ideal for road cyclists and commuters alike. - Bontrager AW2 Hard‑Case Lite 700×28C
Designed for all-season performance, this Bontrager tire features Hard‑Case Lite puncture protection, a tubeless-ready design, and a smooth tread pattern. It offers balanced comfort and grip, making it perfect for fitness rides, commuting, and light gravel paths.
Quick Comparison
| Tire | Puncture Protection | Ride Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continental Contact Urban | SafetyPro Breaker | Smooth, lightweight, fast-rolling | Pavement & hard-packed limestone trails |
| Bontrager AW2 Hard‑Case Lite | Hard‑Case Lite | Durable, moderate comfort | Urban commuting & recreational road use |
Replacement Tire Performance & Ride Feel
Since the H2 Eco Deluxe is no longer produced, both the Bontrager AW2 Hard‑Case Lite and the Continental Contact Urban make excellent substitutes depending on your riding style.
Why These Are Great Alternatives
- Continental Contact Urban: Offers one of the smoothest rolling experiences in its class. The SafetyPro layer provides strong cut and puncture protection, while the tread pattern ensures reliable wet and dry grip. A top choice for mixed-surface riders seeking efficiency and flat protection.
- Bontrager AW2 Hard‑Case Lite: For riders loyal to Bontrager, the AW2 is a natural progression. It maintains a familiar ride feel, is tubeless-compatible, and delivers dependable flat resistance — perfect for urban roads and recreational paths.
Continental Contact Urban vs. Bontrager AW2: Which One Replaces the H2 Best?
Missing your Bontrager H2 Eco Deluxe? The AW2 Hard‑Case Lite and Continental Contact Urban both fill that gap — and arguably offer better overall performance in today's riding conditions.
Bontrager AW2 features a semi-slick tread for efficient road contact and can be run tubeless for added control and fewer flats. It’s a versatile choice for everyday fitness riders or commuters looking for durability and traction across seasons.
Continental Contact Urban rides lighter and faster, thanks to the PureGrip rubber compound and SafetyPro breaker layer. It's particularly well-suited to riders seeking speed and efficiency on pavement, with the added benefit of wet-weather confidence and e-bike compatibility.
Pros & Cons Compared to Bontrager H2 Eco Deluxe
- Continental Contact Urban: Lightweight, fast-rolling, superior wet grip, and excellent puncture protection. Maxes out at 32 mm width but excels on paved surfaces and light gravel.
- Bontrager AW2 Hard‑Case Lite: Reliable and tough with solid puncture resistance. Slightly heavier but tubeless-ready and better suited for rougher urban roads or commuting.
Bike Tire Review: Final Thoughts
Overall, the Bontrager H2 Eco Deluxe 700x28C is a smart upgrade for anyone riding on pavement or crushed limestone trails. If you're coming from Cyclocross tires and looking for something faster, smoother, and more efficient without sacrificing comfort, these are worth considering. I would love to see a 120 TPI version in the future, but even at 60 TPI, these tires perform well for training and recreational use.
If you’re considering other Bontrager models, check out my Bontrager T2 tire review for a more road-oriented option.