Continental, DT Swiss, and Swiss Side partner for Wheel-Tire System featuring crosswind-taming AERO 111 tire

Hanover, Germany, July 3, 2024. Continental has partnered with class-leading cycling brands DT Swiss and Swiss Side to create the ultimate wheel-tire system (WTS) for both enthusiast and pro riders looking to gain every marginal advantage in pursuit of performance. The collaboration has resulted in an innovative front-wheel-specific tire designed to set a new benchmark in aero performance - the AERO 111. 

Continental’s most aerodynamic tire yet, the AERO 111 deploys a patented tread incorporating 48 cavities equally distributed over the tire surface. These innovative cavities act as vortex generators that control the turbulence of the air as it hits the front wheel. This action promotes the adherence of airflow to the front wheel rim profile and delays flow separation, maximizing the sailing effect. 

The result is the ultimate WTS: an aerodynamic collaboration between wheel and tire leading to reduced drag and optimized handling, allowing speed-focused riders to push ahead with greater control in crosswinds. 

AERO 111 utilizes proven technology from Continental’s premium high-performance Grand Prix 5000 TR family, including trusted Vectran Breaker puncture protection technology and tubeless-ready capabilities. AERO 111 uses Continental’s race-optimized Black Chili compound for the lowest possible rolling resistance and exceptional grip in both wet and dry conditions, while Active Comfort Technology absorbs vibrations for a smooth ride. 

Available in two widths, 26-622 and 29-622, the AERO 111 has been designed to create the world’s most aerodynamic WTS when used in combination with DT Swiss Aero or Endurance wheelsets. The tire also provides a competitive advantage for riders who install the tire on their preferred wheelsets from other brands. 

Hannah Ferle, Product Manager, Continental Tires, said: “With AERO 111 we’ve added a high-performance road tire to our portfolio that can do it all: it’s aero, grippy and fast. This collaboration enabled us to expand on our already race-proven technologies to build a tire unlike any other. Next time you hit a crosswind you‘ll have no excuse for not riding on the front.”

Jean-Paul Ballard, Swiss Side CEO & Founder, added: “The development of the Vortex Generator features found on the AERO 111 tyres, spanned over 4 years. The result is a perfectly optimized design for both the 26mm and 29mm tyre versions, which delivers a game-changing aerodynamic enhancement of the wheel performance, at all speeds.”

Dr. Matthias Meier, Chief Marketing Sales Officer & VP, DT Swiss, said: “Looking back on numerous years of research and joint product development with Continental and Swiss Side on this project, we are thrilled to introduce nothing less than the world’s fastest road tire. This tire signifies our collective pursuit of ultimate performance and our commitment to push the boundaries in aero technology.”