When Challenge released their HTLR (handmade tubeless ready) line of cyclocross tires, all the models came in a width of 33mm, for good reason - that's the maximum tire width allowed in most elite-level cyclocross races. But what about amateurs and enthusiasts who don't race at the elite level? They would benefit from a wider tire, and now there's a 38mm option on the Grifo, as well.
Let's put the 33mm and 38mm versions of the Challenge Grifo side-by-side and see how they stack up. The Grifo comes in a few different flavors: in this article, I'll be using the specs of the HTLR handmade tubeless ready "Pro" casing.
| Grifo HTLR 33mm | Grifo HTLR 38mm | |
|
Width |
33mm | 38mm |
| Weight | 400 grams | 432 grams |
| Casing | Handmade, tubeless ready | Handmade, tubeless ready |
| Sidewall | Tan | Tan |
The Challenge Grifo HTLR in 33mm
The "classic", 33mm wide Grifo HTLR, as well as the other 33mm-wide tread patterns (Limus, Baby Limus, Chicane, etc.) are designed to meet the UCI and USAC tire width rules (maximum 33mm wide) when used with rims with internal width of up to 23mm.
Compared to the 38mm version, it's lighter and should accelerate with less effort, but is more likely to bottom out on obstacles at lower pressures.
Who should choose the 33mm Grifo?
- Those trying to build a light race bike - the 33mm is one ounce lighter than 38mm version, saves rotating weight
- Best choice for riders who fall under 33mm tire width rules who need rule-compliant tires
- Good choice for smaller, less aggressive riders and better bike handlers who ride smooth
The Challenge Grifo HTLR in 38mm
In the new, wider 38mm version of the Challenge Grifo, riders gain an extra 5mm of width. That extra width will also yield more air volume in the inflated tire, and it's immediately obvious just looking at the box, which is wider to accomodate the bigger casing.
You're getting a heavier tire that requires more effort to accelerate, but stands up better to obstacles and is more resistant to bottoming out at low pressures. Who should choose the wider 38mm Grifo?
- Weighs one ounce more than 33mm version; good choice for riders who are less sensitive about rotating weight
- 5mm wider casing; yields more air volume
- Good for bigger, more aggressive riders who aren't smooth
It's worth noting that at the USA Cycling national championship, there are two tire width rules in effect, Elite, U23, and Junior 17-18: the max 33mm tire width rule applies, while the Masters, Non-Binary, Collegiate, and Singlespeed categories are allowed to use up to 38mm. So doublecheck your exact category to make sure you understand the limitation.
Why does tire width matter in cyclocross, anyway?
f you race the casual / amateur level, it may not matter at all. If you race at the elite level, it matters a great deal. Most local events won't enforce a maximum tire width rule, but tire width will definitely be enforced at elite level events, UCI events; and especially, the USA Cycling National Cyclocross Championships.
Even riders who aren't subject to the maximum tire width rules often choose to ride 33mm compliant tires anyway, due to selection and availability. Racers who ride in a mix of sanctioned and non-sanctioned events may also choose to stick with 33mm for consistency.
Learn more about which tire width rules apply to you, based on your age and racing category.
What about the Challenge Grifo "Team Edition" HTLR?
For Fall, 2024, there's also a new "Team Edition" version of the Grifo 33mm. This one is readily recognizable with distinctive red sidewalls. It uses a higher TPI cotton casing, and softer rubber compound, but is unchanged from a width perspective - like the tan sidewall "Pro" HTLR Grifo, it's designed to meet the UCI and USAC tire width rules (maximum 33mm wide tires) when used with rims with internal width of up to 23mm.