Specialized enter our 2025 road bike tire group test with two brand-new models. Alongside the S-Works Turbo TLR, the RapidAir TLR has been developed with high-end performance as the top priority. Like the Continental GP 5000 TT TR, it’s exclusively available in a 28 mm version – the skinniest tire on test – and is designed to work especially well with wide rims like you’ll find on the Roval Rapide CLX III and Sprint wheelsets. That said, the tire measured just 27.3 mm on our HUNT 40 Carbon test wheels. What makes it particularly interesting is its claimed aero optimisation, paired with a surprisingly lofty promise of puncture protection. Specialized also boast about a planted ride feel and plenty of grip. But how does the RapidAir TLR actually perform in the real world of our 2025 road bike tire group test?
Race Only! – The Specialized RapidAir TLR in Our 2025 Road Tire Test
The RapidAir TLR performed convincingly throughout our test. It’s highly efficient, especially with the tire benefitting from its aerodynamic profile at higher speeds, and it also scores well in terms of rolling resistance. At 12.6 watts, it’s 1.6 watts behind the test-winning Continental GP 5000 S TR and roughly on par with the Challenge Criterium RS and the Continental Aero 111. Weighing just 248.2 g, the RapidAir TLR is one of the lightest tubeless tires on test. This translates into a punchy ride feel, similar to the Michelin Power Cup TLR – though not quite as explosive as the Continental GP 5000 TT TR. Grip is another one of its strong points thanks to a well-balanced rubber compound that offers dependable traction on tarmac and plenty of cornering grip. The overall handling is race-focused, offering sharp, direct steering. If you’re after a sporty, precise ride feel, you’ll get on well with the RapidAir TLR. Comfort-focused riders, on the other hand, might find it slightly too harsh.
The tire’s compliance is on the firmer side overall. While it does a decent job of smoothing out cracks in the road, it barely mitigates bigger bumps and cobblestones. Mounting the tire is a bit of a struggle, too. It sits very tightly on the rim and needs tire levers to fit, though it seals reliably once in place. On the upside, the styling is spot-on. The matte branding and red logo give it a fast, aggressive look. The most significant downside, however, is puncture protection. The RapidAir TLR is among the weakest on test in this regard. It falls short in both puncture and pinch-flat resistance, although the sidewalls are noticeably better protected than the rest of the casing.
Tire Characteristics
Rolling Resistance | Pinch-Flat Protection | Puncture Protection | Grip
Tire Characteristics
Rolling Resistance
Pinch-Flat Protection
Puncture Protection
Grip
Conclusion on the Specialized RapidAir TLR
The Specialized RapidAir TLR is a purebred race tire: fast, lightweight, highly efficient, and offering sporty handling. It’s a serious upgrade for racers with an aero focus, especially those running Roval wheels. However, if you’re looking for comfort, easy installation or solid puncture protection, you’ll want to look elsewhere. That said, its skinny, firm construction makes the RapidAir TLR a true specialist with a clear focus on speed and racing. If that’s what you’re after, the RapidAir TLR won’t disappoint, though it does come at a fairly hefty price.
Tops
- Low rolling resistance
- Plenty of grip
Flops
- Subpar puncture protection
- Lack of compliance
- Difficult to install
Made in Thailand | Tested size 30-622 | Tire width in mm¹ 27.3 | Tire height in mm¹ 17.26 | Tire height + test rim depth in mm² 62.46 | Weight 248.2 g | Price € 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 specialized.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
