![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Urethane-coated-tyres-1.jpg\")
The team didn’t elaborate as to why they’ve coated the tyres. <\/p>\nRed Bull – BORA – hansgrohe have turned to an old-school tubular-era hack for Paris-Roubaix, coating the sidewalls of their Specialized Turbo Cotton tyres with liquid urethane.<\/p>\n
Subtly hidden on the team\u2019s racks, we spotted the sidewalls glistening with the gloopy substance.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Initially unwilling to confirm what was going on, mechanics later confirmed it was indeed liquid urethane applied to the sidewalls \u2013 though they didn\u2019t elaborate as to why they\u2019d done it.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
The team didn’t elaborate as to why they’ve coated the tyres. <\/p>\n
The technique dates back to the tubular era, particularly in cyclocross racing, where it was used to prevent water ingress and protect delicate cotton casings from rot.\u00a0<\/p>\n
That\u2019s unlikely to be a primary concern in Roubaix\u2019s dry conditions. <\/p>\n
We expect it\u2019s more likely being used to add a small amount of protection against the rough pav\u00e9, and potentially reduce the chances of sealant seeping through the sidewalls.<\/p>\n