When choosing a new bicycle tyre, you usually focus on three basic parameters while browsing an e-shop or visiting a store: speed, comfort and puncture resistance. But how can you be sure that a tyre will perform perfectly in a demanding road race, on a muddy trail, and during your daily commute?
At Rubena Tyres, we build on the tradition of Czech manufacturing, but above all on hard data. During development, we don't rely only on riding impressions. Every prototype is sent to our state of the art laboratory, where our tyres go through a true torture test. We want to know exactly what a tyre can withstand in real world and extreme conditions.
Take a look with us at the three key tests that every one of our models must pass before it reaches your rims.
1. Rolling Resistance Under the Microscope: The Battle for Every Watt
One of the most important parameters of a modern tyre is its efficiency, in other words, how easily it rolls. Rolling resistance directly determines how much energy you unnecessarily lose with every wheel revolution.
At the Rubena Tyres laboratory, we use a special VLP testing device (a rolling resistance testing machine) for this purpose.
How it works: The tyre rotates under precisely defined load and pressure in strictly controlled conditions.
What is the result: The machine measures power loss directly in Watts (W).
Why does it matter? Every extra watt that the tyre has to overcome means more effort from you. Lower rolling resistance means higher speed with the same effort, or less fatigue on long rides.
Thanks to the data from the VLP machine, we can precisely fine tune our rubber compounds and casing constructions to achieve the ideal balance between speed, grip and comfort. These small details ultimately make the difference in outstanding sporting performance.
2. Casing Fatigue Test: When the Casing Is Put to the Test
Speed is great, but without complete reliability it won't help you out on the trail. In real riding conditions, the tyre casing is constantly subjected to dynamic stress. It absorbs impacts, copes with cornering forces and must maintain its structural integrity even after thousands of kilometres.
On another testing device, we simulate extreme long term loading and monitor the casing's resistance to fatigue.
How it works: The tyre is exposed to continuous cyclic pressure and deformation, simulating the harshest conditions such as riding over roots, rocks and hard braking.
What is the result: Performance expressed in kilometres covered.
Every Rubena tyre must meet a strict internal limit. After completing the specified distance on this machine, the tyre must remain completely free of any signs of damage, cracks or deformation. The reliability of our bicycle tyres is not a coincidence, but the result of uncompromising testing. We want you to have the confidence that your tyre will support you even in the most remote wilderness.
3. Endless Abrasion Testing: What Is the Real Tread Service Life?
The third key area of our research is the service life of the tread compound. It directly affects how long the tyre maintains its original riding characteristics and safety standards. Nobody wants a tyre that rolls brilliantly but is ready for replacement after only a few hundred kilometres.
That is why we use a special machine to simulate long term intensive tread wear.
How it works: The tyre rolls on a surface that simulates real asphalt or rough terrain while being subjected to controlled friction.
What is the result: We monitor how many kilometres the tyre can cover before the tread wears down to the cord (textile casing).
Here too, we work with uncompromising internal limits. Every model and every new compound developed by Rubena Tyres must pass this test without failure and achieve the required mileage. Only then can we guarantee a long tyre service life without compromising safety or wet grip.
The Details You Can't See, But You Can Feel on the Bike
These laboratory tests may not be visible at first glance when you take a tyre out of the box. But as soon as you head out for a ride, you'll notice the difference:
- Lower rolling resistance gives you more efficient pedalling and saves valuable energy.
- A strong and durable casing provides confidence and peace of mind on technical descents.
- A durable tread ensures that you'll only need to replace the tyre due to wear after many thousands of carefree kilometres.
A high quality bicycle tyre is not simply created at a drawing board. It is the result of precise Czech development, modern technologies and rigorous data verification. Because only when a tyre performs flawlessly in our laboratory do we know it is ready for your cycling adventures.
Which Tyre Characteristics Do You Prefer?
Do you prefer maximum speed and low weight, or is your priority an exceptionally durable casing and long mileage? Take a look at our complete range of Rubena Tyres tyres and choose the right model for your riding style!