Originally designed for pure speed in time trials and triathlon events, the GP 5000 TT TR has since gained a strong following among pros and performance-focused amateurs on standard road bikes, too. That’s because Continental have stripped this tire down to the bare essentials, disposing of anything that might cost unnecessary watts. The result? A minimalist construction with an ultra-thin tread and virtually no added puncture protection. At just 243 g, it’s the lightest tire on test, significantly undercutting the average tubeless models by nearly 40 grams. Visually, it’s almost identical to the popular GP 5000 S TR, though the TT version is exclusively available in 28 mm wide, underlining its uncompromising performance-first approach and a key reason behind its featherweight build. But does this pared-back design compromise its versatility on the road?
High on Performance – The Continental GP 5000 TT TR in our 2025 Road Tire Test
Our test revealed the full extent of the GP 5000 TT TR’s single-minded pursuit of speed: it’s ultra-light, incredibly snappy off the line, and blisteringly efficient at high speed, or, as our tester Jan put it after just one lap, “fast as fuck.” With a lab-measured rolling resistance of just 10.4 watts, it’s the fastest tire in the test field, edging 0.6 watts ahead of the GP 5000 S TR and a full 1.6 watts clear of other top-tier race tires. But such an uncompromising design doesn’t come without trade-offs. While the TT TR offers decent overall grip, it lags behind the test winner GP 5000 S TR and the Schwalbe Pro One TL, particularly during hard braking and tight cornering. Skilled riders will cope with this without issue, but less experienced cyclists might find it a little unnerving. On the flip side, it’s handling through corners is a real highlight, offering a direct and precise response without ever feeling twitchy. The TT TR delivers excellent road feel and a lively ride.
Despite its skinny 28 mm design, the tire feels surprisingly supple and comfortable. This is largely thanks to its ultra-thin sidewalls and the actual measured width of 30.5 mm on our HUNT 40 Carbon test wheels. When it comes to rougher terrain like gravel or cobblestones, the TT TR quickly reaches its limits. Its compliance remains acceptable, but lacks grip – unsurprising for a time trial tire, which really has no business venturing beyond the confines of smooth tarmac. As with all Continental tires on test, fitting it is refreshingly straightforward. The TT TR slips on easily, seats with a satisfying “pop” and seals perfectly, even without sealant. Finally, puncture protection is a common weakness amongst most TT tires. However, the GP 5000 TT TR surprised us here too. Despite its stripped-down construction, it performed just below average in our group test, easily outperforming tires like the Pirelli P ZERO TLR RS and Specialized RapidAir TLR.
Tire Characteristics
Rolling Resistance
Pinch-Flat Protection
Puncture Protection
Grip
Conclusion on the Continental GP 5000 TT TR
The Continental GP 5000 TT TR is the fastest tire on test and impressed us with a surprisingly fun character and decent puncture protection for such a lightweight, efficiency-focused model. Add to that its easy installation and sleek, fast look, and it’s a top pick for both racing and time trials. That said, if you’re after maximum performance with added grip and better puncture protection, the barely slower GP 5000 S TR is the smarter all-round choice. But for those chasing every last watt, the GP 5000 TT TR remains the ultimate choice.
Tops
- Unbeatable efficiency
- Very easy to install
- Direct and fun handling
Flops
- Limited puncture protection
- Expensive
Made in Germany | Tested size 28-622 | Tire width in mm¹ 30.5 | Tire height in mm¹ 20.75 | Tire height + test rim depth in mm² 65.95 | Weight 243 g | Price € 111.95
1 measured dimensions with 5.0 Bar, 2 Test rim: HUNT 40 Carbon Disc 622 x 22TC (Rim height 45.2 mm)
Find out more on continental-tires.com.
The Test Field
You can find an overview of this comparison test here:
The 13 best road bike tires head to head. Reviewing the best tubeless and clincher tires for road bikes
All tires in review: Challenge Criterium RS | Continental GP 5000 S TR | Continental Aero 111 | Continental GP 5000 TT TR | Hutchinson Blackbird Race | MAXXIS HighRoad Gen 3 | Michelin Power Cup TLR Competition Line | Pirelli P ZERO TLR RS | Pirelli P ZERO Race RS | Schwalbe Pro One TL | Specialized RapidAir TLR | Specialized S-Works Turbo TLR | Vittoria Corsa Pro TR
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Words: Calvin Zajac Photos: Jan Fock
