Just this AM, I put my first 30 miles of gravel and dual track riding on the Panaracer Comet 700x38c. I set it up on my rear only (WTB Nano TCS is in front). I installed it tubeless on a Pacenti SL25 rim with OrangeSeal. Easy setup with a floor pump.
I was looking for a non-file tread rear tire and considered WTB Nanos F and R. However, I decided to look for a tire without a "blocky" tread pattern in the rear. The Comet seemed to fit the profile and I can say I am initially pleased with the ride. I was riding a Spec Trigger Pro 2Bliss before, but found them a bit sketchy on loose pack and gravel. The Comet performed much better in these conditions, but were slightly slower on hardpack (not surprising). After the ride, I took a width measurement of the tire. It measures a lofty 40.31mm at a PSI of 41#.
For the record, I'm a clyderider at 230# and am riding a CDale CAADX.
I'm going to ride singletrack tomorrow AM, so I'll report again on how it performs in those conditions.
Checking in again with a singletrack report for the Comet. My ride was about 20 miles with around 2k feet of elevation gain. The Comet was boringly predictable and for most of my ride I did not even think about my new tire,... And I mean this in good way. I am most impressed with this tire.
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\nI ran the Comet in the rear again at 42 PSI. Singletrack conditions were dry and included midpack, sandy sections, sweeping banked turns, off-camber sections, graveled hardpack, and various rutted/rocky sections. A good variety of conditions to put this new rear tire through its paces.
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\nFirst, this tire was a treat from the moment it hit rough sections. The voluminous size provided the softest ride I've ever had on my stiff CAADX frame. Also, it consistently grabbed the trail when I applied power to the peddles and drifted predictably when I railed a few corners. There were no surprises with this tire and that is a great thing. It hooked up well on the climbs, but I could feel it's extra size/weight. Overall, I'm pleased with the wide range of capability of this tire. It is going to stay on my ride full time, except for CX races.
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\nUnfortunately, I did not think to weigh the tire before I mounted it. If I had to estimate its weight, it feels a tad heavier than a Nano (500 grams give or take a few). The other spec that was interesting is that the tire is now 41.68mm in width. I've noticed this with all of my other tires in that they will expand and settle after the first few rides. Fortunately, my CAADX has ample clearance in the rear with 7mm of clearance from the chainstay.
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\nI am now contemplating running a Comet on the front when my Nano wears out. It is hard to pass up a tire of this design and versatility at a price tag of only $30! I will post a last report when I hit 500 miles with this tire to give you durability feedback. Until then, ride ON!
