My Michelin Pro Race Tire Review: In late spring or early summer of 2011, I made the switch from Bontrager R3 700x23c tires to the Michelin Pro 3 Race Service Course 700x23c road tires on my Trek Madone 5.2 road bike. After logging over 1,200 miles on them, I’m offering this detailed review based on real world performance.
Michelin Pro 3 First Impressions
I paid around $110 for the pair, which was comparable to other high-performance road tires at the time. These are foldable clincher tires, and the first thing I noticed was how lightweight and supple they felt out of the box. The tread felt soft and pliable, but the sidewalls seemed unusually thin. Mounting them was a bit of a challenge compared to my usual Bontrager R3s—they fit tight on my Bontrager Racelite rims.
Ride Feel and Performance on the Road
Once inflated to maximum pressure, my first ride felt noticeably softer than expected. I even stopped to double-check tire pressure, thinking they were low. However, this was simply the Pro 3’s high-comfort design in action. After a few rides, I began appreciating the tire’s ability to absorb vibrations and imperfections on the road, all while staying reasonably fast and extremely quiet.
Eventually, I bumped the pressure slightly above max (to around 120 PSI) due to my weight (185–190 lbs). This helped reduce the “too soft” feeling without sacrificing ride comfort. Overall, the tire felt stable, grippy, and responsive.
Pros:
- Superb comfort and road vibration absorption
- Extremely quiet rolling
- Lightweight and agile
- Confident handling in corners
Cons:
- Slightly slower rolling speed than the Bontrager R3
- Soft rubber compound picks up debris easily
- More prone to pinch flats and cuts
Durability and Wear Over Time
Despite enjoying the smooth ride, I soon noticed excessive wear. The softer rubber compound seemed to attract sharp debris, leading to visible nicks and cuts even after just a few hundred miles. I ride primarily on clean paved roads, shoulders, and trails—yet by 780 miles, the tires had suffered enough damage that I considered them unsafe for high-speed riding.
I also experienced two pinch flats, likely due to the thinner, more flexible sidewalls. It became clear that while this tire excels in comfort, its durability suffers—especially for heavier riders.
Data & Performance Tracking
Using GPS and ride tracking tools, I found that my average speed dropped by about 0.3 to 0.5 mph on my daily routes compared to the Bontrager R3. Initially, I thought it was due to the heat or fatigue, but switching back to the R3 confirmed that the Pro 3 is indeed slower for me.
Michelin Pro 3 Race Tire Review Summary
- Ride Comfort: 5/5 – Incredibly smooth and shock-absorbing
- Rolling Resistance: 3.5/5 – Slightly slower than top-tier race tires
- Durability: 2.5/5 – Wears quickly and prone to cuts
- Puncture Resistance: 3/5 – Not ideal for heavier riders or rough conditions
- Grip & Handling: 4.5/5 – Confident in corners, especially in dry weather
- Value for Money: 3.5/5 – Great comfort but limited lifespan
Michelin Pro 3 vs. Bontrager T2 700x28c – Tire Comparison
While both tires are designed for road cycling, the Michelin Pro 3 and Bontrager T2 serve very different purposes. Here's how they compare:
| Feature | Michelin Pro 3 Race (700x23c) | Bontrager T2 (700x28c) |
|---|---|---|
| Intended Use | Performance racing, fast training | Commuting, casual road riding, training |
| Ride Comfort | 5/5 – Very soft and smooth | 4/5 – Cushioned ride, absorbs vibrations well |
| Rolling Resistance | 3.5/5 – Slightly slower than top-tier race tires | 3/5 – Slower due to wider profile and higher weight |
| Durability | 2.5/5 – Wears fast, prone to cuts | 4.5/5 – Very durable, excellent longevity |
| Puncture Resistance | 3/5 – Prone to flats on rough roads | 4.5/5 – Resists flats and abrasions well |
| Weight | Lightweight (~200g per tire) | Heavier (~410g per tire) |
| Tire Width | 700x23c | 700x28c |
| Best For | Speed, race-day comfort | Daily riding, commuting, high mileage |
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
If you're a performance-focused rider looking for speed and ride quality, the Michelin Pro 3 is a solid pick—just be aware of its short lifespan. On the other hand, if you're after reliability, flat resistance, and comfort for everyday riding or commuting, the Bontrager T2 offers unbeatable value and toughness.
Pro 3 Conclusion – The Bottom Line
My experience with the Michelin Pro 3 Race Tire is that the ride was very comfortable, smooth, and quiet. However, if all-out speed is your thing, or if you're a heavier rider (180+ lbs), the Bontrager R3 or even T2 tires might be a better long-term choice.
Final Thoughts
If you're a lightweight rider or prioritize ride feel over longevity, the Michelin Pro 3 Race is worth a try. But if you're over 180 lbs or ride rougher surfaces, you may want to look elsewhere for better value and durability.
Michelin Pro 3 Race Tire – Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Michelin Pro 3 a good race tire?
Yes, it’s a solid choice for racing and fast training, offering excellent comfort, low rolling resistance, and lightweight construction. However, it's not as durable as other high-performance tires, especially under heavier riders.
What is the recommended PSI for Michelin Pro 3 tires?
The manufacturer typically recommends inflating to 100–115 PSI, depending on rider weight and road conditions. Heavier riders may benefit from slightly higher pressures (around 120 PSI) for added stability.
Is the Michelin Pro 3 Race tire durable?
Durability is where this tire falls short. The soft rubber compound wears quickly and is prone to cuts and pinch flats, especially on rough pavement or debris-filled roads.
How does the Michelin Pro 3 perform in wet conditions?
The Pro 3 offers decent grip in dry conditions but is not known for outstanding wet performance. Riders looking for wet-weather traction may want a tire with a more advanced tread compound or wet-weather focus.
Is this tire suitable for heavier riders?
Not ideal. Riders over 180 lbs may experience faster wear, pinch flats, and performance loss. Stiffer, more robust tires like the Bontrager T2 or Continental Gatorskin may be better suited.