With their G-One models, Schwalbe have already proven they can make fast, high-performance tires for the gravel scene. The Pro One TL brings that same ambition to the tarmac, aiming to establish itself as a true all-round road racing tire. By focusing on low rolling resistance, plenty of grip, and predictable handling, it’s got all the ingredients of a top-tier road road tire. But how well does it perform in practice, and can it hold its ground in a head to head battle against the competition?
The Heavyweight in the Ring – The Schwalbe Pro One TL in Our 2025 Road Tire Test
Schwalbe set high expectations, and the Pro One TL doesn’t waste time making an impression. It feels lively right from the first pedal stroke. While not quite as explosive off the mark as the Specialized RapidAir, it’s still surprisingly sprightly considering its hefty weight. At higher speeds, it rolls with impressive efficiency and feels well balanced overall. The lab results back that up: with a rolling resistance of 12.4 watts, the Schwalbe Pro One TL sits just behind Continental’s fastest tires. The gap to Pirelli, Challenge and the Aero 111 is just around 0.4 to 0.6 watts – virtually negligible in real-world conditions. The one drawback is the weight. At 338.7 g, the Pro One TL is by far the heaviest tire in the test field. That extra heft, however, brings a major benefit: class-leading puncture protection. In our test, it came out on top in this category, proving that durability doesn’t have to take a back seat on a race setup.
When it comes to grip, the Pro One TL delivers across the board. On tarmac, it offers superb traction, remains composed under braking, and slots in just behind the S-Works Turbo TLR – outperforming rivals from Continental. On fine gravel it still manages to generate a decent level of grip, though it’s clearly not designed for rougher off-road terrain. Cornering performance is another one of its standout features, offering precise steering, neutral handling, and loads of confidence even in tight turns, making the Pro One TL seriously fun to ride. At the same time, it stays composed and predictable, which makes it a great choice for long outings too. The tire’s compliance is nothing to write home about. It smooths out smaller imperfections well enough, but cobblestones and square asphalt edges are definitely noticeable. For more comfort, the Michelin or S-Works Turbo fare slightly better. As you’d expect from Schwalbe, installation is completely hassle-free. The Pro One TL slips on easily and seals right away, even without sealant.
Tire Characteristics
Rolling Resistance
Pinch-Flat Protection
Puncture Protection
Grip
Tops
- Excellent puncture protection
- High efficiency
- Precise handling
- Outstanding value for money
Flops
- Somewhat on the heavy side
Made in Vietnam | Tested size 30-622 | Tire width in mm¹ 32.2 | Tire height in mm¹ 22.55 | Tire height + test rim depth in mm² 67.75 | Weight 341.9 g | Price € 69.90
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 schwalbe.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
