Tire Pressure and Road Conditions at IRONMAN 70.3 São Paulo
Tire pressure adjustments for wide setups and key course hazards to prevent lost hydration.
Discover the ideal tire pressure and width setup for the IRONMAN 70.3 São Paulo bike course. Learn which rough road sections require extra caution to handle vibrations and keep hydration systems securely attached.
Choosing the right wheel and tire setup is one of the most strategic decisions for anyone competing in IRONMAN 70.3 São Paulo. Behind the scenes before the race, tire pressure and the quality of São Paulo's asphalt became a hot topic of conversation. With wider tires growing in popularity—such as the Continental GP 5000 setup running 28 mm in the front and 30 mm in the rear—the average pressure used by athletes is around 72 psi, with room to run even lower pressures on 30 mm widths for improved comfort and grip.
Critical sections and road surface quality in the city
The bike course in São Paulo blends sections of pristine asphalt with areas that require extra caution. While expressways such as Juscelino Kubitschek, Avenida 23 de Maio, and Marginal offer a smooth, fast surface—a true "carpet"—other parts of the route demand vigilance. Crossing bridges introduces noticeable structural vibrations, and the roads inside Cidade Universitária (USP), historically crowned and uneven, have undergone recent repaving that improves rolling speed but still calls for care.
Another critical spot on the course is behind the Jockey Club, at the entrance to the first tunnel. This section features deep transverse drainage gutters that cause harsh impacts on the bike. Such jarring jolts early in the ride significantly increase the risk of ejecting water bottles and front hydration systems. Securing and locking down all accessories before the start is essential to protect your race-day fueling and nutrition strategy.
