Tom Law: I want my holy grail – speed AND soft compounds Understanding them isn’t made any easier by their brand-specific naming structures.Ī first step to help consumers could be naming their tyres after the conditions they’re intended to excel in a mud tyre would be called, unsurprisingly, ‘Mud Tyre’.īut then again, the gratification of knowing exactly what a High Roller, Tacky Chan or Minion is designed for might be worth the headache. This explains the seemingly impenetrable matrix of tread pattern, compound and carcass types. This multiplier effect of needs – that’s increasing exponentially with added MTB sub-genres and rider demands – means brands have to make their most popular tread patterns in almost every carcass variation and compound. Similarly, riders who don’t tackle the most demanding terrain, but perhaps ride in a lot of mud, need aggressive treads usually reserved for enduro or DH, but with a lighter-weight casing, compounding complications.
Now, brands have to deliver their speedy tyres with more casing options. Thirdly, carcasses complicate the recipe.ĭowncountry or trail riders on gnarly terrain want the advantages of less aggressive treads, such as high rolling speeds, but the puncture protection of tougher carcasses. Similarly, XC race tyres are designed for speed, mostly ruling out the need for ultra-tacky compounds, but with XC courses becoming more technical extra grip is in demand.Īdd downcountry into the mix – where outright speed isn’t the single priority – and the rubber tree needs even more branches of possible compounds and treads.ĭecent tyres can help you ride harder and faster… you’ve just got to know which ones to buy. Brands need to offer their tyres in multiple states of stickiness. While grip is a priority on the front, rolling speed and wear life are considerations at the back. Secondly, tread patterns need to come in different compounds.Īn aggressive tyre is virtually worthless if its compound feels closer to plastic than soft rubber.īut ultra-soft tyres will wear out quickly on the rear, especially in drier conditions. While there are rules of averages, trail conditions dictate specific needs from a tyre’s performance. Andy Lloyd / Our Mediaīut in dusty, hard-pack conditions gravity riders do use semi-slicks, and XC racers can hanker for mud spikes with skinny sidewalls. Riding can be made easier, faster and more fun with the right set of tyres.
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