MOUNTAIN BIKE TIRES
The sport of mountain biking comes in different disciplines. This means that you also need to adapt depending on the kind of riding you do.
One good way to do this is by using the right kind of mountain bike tires, whether you’re into XC, enduro, or downhill racing.
Here’s all you need to know about mountain bike tires.
What Do You Need to Know About Mountain Bike Tires?
Types of tires
There are three main types of tires. These are cross-country, enduro, and downhill. XC tires have low-profile knobs and smaller tread patterns as these are designed for fast-rolling movements.
Meanwhile, enduro tires are all-terrain because they are in between XC and downhill. This means that they need to be fast enough with higher fast-rolling capabilities, but still, have enough grip to tackle technical sections.
A downhill mountain bike tire is designed to get as much grip as possible with large knobs and aggressive tread patterns. They’re also heavier because they’re made to survive the roughest of trails.
Maintenance tips
The best thing you can do to lengthen the lifespan of your tire is to keep it away from direct sunlight if you’re not using them.
Also, it would be best if you go to the local bike shop to convert into tubeless tires so that they can still run even if they have been punctured. However, you need to replace their sealant every four to six months for optimum performance.
Why choosing the right tires matter
It’s important that you choose the right kind of tires so you can improve your performance when you’re out in the trails. This also makes it safer on your part because you get the right amount of grip.
Recommended Mountain Bike Tires
Maxxis Rekon: Best Cross-country Tires
Maxxis Reckon is a must-have for cross-country bikes. It is a dedicated XC tire that has a dual-compound rubber mixed with EXO construction material.
These narrower tires are light enough but still packed with the durability needed to tackle offroads. It’s also a 29er tire, so you’ll roll faster with this than other options.
Vittoria Mazza: Best Trail Tires
Vittoria Mazza is the best choice for trail and enduro riding, thanks to its tread depth that claws precisely on jagged trail sections.
It’s fast-rolling but still provides enough grip, which is just what you need for enduro racing. It features their exclusive 4C layering process that makes the tires even more durable without compromising weight savings. It’s an all-around tire, so to speak.
Maxxis Assegai: Best Downhill Tires
Maxxis Assegai is the number one choice for all-out downhill racing. It’s the most rugged, durable, and aggressive tire available. It also functions as a great aggressive rear trail tire thanks to its tire width and rolling resistance.
It features Maxxis’ 3C grip material and Maxx Terra built for ultra-rugged use like jumps, drops, and rock gardens. This also has large knobs to sustain maximum grip on slippery sections.
Although this is heavier than other choices, it is still worth it because its durability and aggressiveness make up for its weight. Weight also isn’t much of a problem with downhill bikes.
