The Vittoria Open Corsa CX III proves Pro-level racing clinchers not only exist, but can deliver ride qualities approaching tubular characteristics without the challenge of gluing and multiple sets of wheels. So says Vittoria, the company that produces some of the highest quality, best regarded, tubular tires on the market. In fact, Vittoria approached construction of their race level clinchers from a tubular perspective, and the casing borrows heavily from that genesis. Hence the term Open Tubular, which can lead to some confusion. Vittoria's race level clincher tire names all start with Open. The Open Corsa CX III tire is the clincher equivalent of the famous tubular Corsa CX III. For the record, we agree with Vittoria. These Open Tubular tires are race worthy, and also used for every day riding by cyclists who prefer the supple ride and excellent grip these tires are known for.

This 3rd generation, 320 tpi Corespun Open Corsa CX is the best all-around racing clincher in the line. The wonderfully light and supple casing is the heart of the tire. The incredibly fine polyester and cotton fibers are wound into larger polycore structures that are then Corespun into the casing shape. The soft and flexible fibers are strong enough to handle very high pressures, and still conform to varied surfaces, which is why riders always comment on how connected they feel to the road. Matched with the latest Pro rubber compound, Vittora riders have incredible confidence when cornering or riding at speed. The rubber, ISOgrip®, provides exceptional grip and low rolling resistance while providing better adhesion in both wet and dry road conditions. Please keep in mind this is considered a racing tire, not a high mileage trainer. The same technology that delivers feel, grip and speed is not designed for durability or long wear.

That does not mean Vittoria ignores protection. After all, flat reduction is imperative at all levels of cycling. Sandwiched between the tread and casing is Vittoria's proprietary PRB 2.0 protective layer. This woven strip helps protect the casing from glass shards and general road debris that can wedge into the tread and cause flatting. The Open Corsa CX III tread pattern is designed for all conditions and is equally adept in dry or wet conditions. The center carries a firmer rubber and a consistent fine file tread that rolls fast, but provides excellent braking. The shoulders carry a slightly wider spaced directional file tread that not only sheds water, but delivers confidence in the corners.

Vittoria designed the Open Corsa CX to be used with latex or butyl tubes. Pure racers will run latex to enhance the road connection through less tube/tire friction and drop some weight. Daily riders will prefer butyl tubes for lower expense and less daily air loss. Rider choice. Here at Excel we generally recommend that you train on tires that are the same as, or similar to, what you race. With the Open Corsa CX III, you can make the simplest possible choice and run one tire all the time. Yes, you will go through them quickly (tip: rotate them every 200 mi, or once a week), but you will have the ultimate confidence in the limits can you push with your tires. Knowing how and when to push and trust saves tenths of seconds or more over a longer event, and can make the difference in a winning ride.