Challenge Getaway in review

Fast, grippy, and good looking – that’s the first impression made by the Challenge Getaway tires. Furthermore, thanks to the unique open tubular construction, they promise to set the standard in terms of comfort and rolling resistance while still offering sufficient grip. But does that come at the cost of puncture protection?

**Challenge** Getaway | 463 g | € 79,81 | Manufacturer’s website

Challenge are a truly unique and special tire brand, and that’s not just because of the name. You’re unlikely to find these Italian tires on any stock bikes. However, that’s not due to its looks. Sure, the Getaway does have a bold look, but paired with the right bike, it can make a classy impression. The look is determined by the way the tire is constructed. As an open tubular construction, it’s made up of a clincher with a tubular casing, so the tire isn’t vulcanised. The cotton casing is glued to the rubber tread by hand. This leads to the naturally yellowish sidewalls and the contrasting black tread.

The design doesn’t just look great, it also determines how the Getaway fits. And because of this design, the Getaway will even make experienced mechanics sweat. You’ll certainly need sturdy tire levers here!

Beautiful, nimble, but fragile? – Where is the catch on the Challenge Getaway?

It’s not just the looks that set the Getaway apart, it also rides differently than many other tires on test. The tire rolls fast and accelerates easily, especially on smooth and fast surfaces, including asphalt. This is also confirmed by the laboratory values, because with a rolling resistance of just 15 W, the Challenge Getaway is one of the fastest tires in the test field. With its round and even tread pattern, the tire can fully exploit its strengths on gravel roads and fast corners, which is where it feels most at home. Thanks to the fast rolling central tread and the grippy shoulder knobs, it’s designed just for this.
In terms of compliance, however, the Getaway isn’t quite as comfortable as the competition – the tire pressure needs to come down a bit! However, the Getaway is perfect for fast gravel.
As far as puncture protection is concerned, Challenge have some work to do with the Getaway. The pinch and puncture protection tests produced rather average values in the laboratory. Moreover, three of the tires threw in the towel during our real world tests. And not in the conventional sense. After a short time, the tread started coming loose on all three tires. There was nothing the tubeless sealant could do about that. Even the folks at Challenge can’t explain what went wrong.
But there is light at the end of the tunnel. The brand new XR version is a vulcanised tire, featuring the same tread pattern and significantly improved puncture protection.

Tire Characteristics

intended use

asphalt/hard pack
trail

rolling resistance

slow
quick

pinch protection

low
high

puncture protection

low
high

handling in wet conditions

slippery
grippy

Conclusion

Overall, the Challenge Getaway is an excellent all-rounder. With the fast rolling tread and sufficient grip on fast gravel, this tire is a good option for fast riders in dry regions. If you decide to go for this tire, just keep in mind that fitting it won’t be easy. And the tire is slightly less robust than the competition, so it’s probably reserved more for Challenge fans than for absolute gravel enthusiasts.

Tops

fast tire with versatile tread
classy and unique look
unique construction

Flops

limited puncture protection
very tight fit

For more information head to: challengetires.com

In our introduction of the best gravel tire on test you can’t just find our most interesting findings and our overall conclusion, but a good view on all tires tested.

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of GRAN FONDO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.

Words: czajac Photos: Jan Richter