Specialized S-Works Turbo 2Bliss 28mm tyre review

Specialized’s Turbo tyre has been synonymous with the brand for many decades. One of its latest iterations, the S-Works Turbo 2Bliss Ready, has been developed to cover the specific need for a tubeless (2Bliss) system, while offering a generous 28mm width to provide a smoother, more comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride, without sacrificing rolling resistance.

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Constructed using 120 TPI (threads per inch) casing, the 2Bliss features Specialized’s Gripton rubber compound and added puncture resistance in the form of the BlackBelt centre-ridge strip. The overall tyre weighs in at 285g.

The Turbo 2Bliss belies its low 120 TPI and feels as supple as more expensive tyres with much higher TPI. The impressively tacky Gripton compound performs incredibly well.

Specialized claims that the UCI World Time Trial winning ‘Gripton’ compound is 35 seconds faster, over 40km, than its nearest rival. I have to admit that the rolling resistance felt low, and as fast as tyres that will put a larger dent in your bank balance.

One of the benefits of using a wide, tubeless tyre is that it allows you to run lower pressures, without the risk of pinch punctures, while increasing grip and noticeably reducing road buzz.

Specialized recommends running a pressure between 85 to 95 psi, depending on your weight. I was really impressed with the overall high comfort levels of the Turbo 2Bliss.

Specialized states that the Turbo 2Bliss must be run with hooked ‘crotchet’-style rims (tubeless specific). I mounted mine onto a Giant tubeless wheelset, which was very easy.

The Turbo 2Bliss is ideal if you want the improved comfort of a wider tyre with the overall performance values of tyres that cost twice as much.