MTB tyre advice

Author
Discussion

skinnyman

Original Poster:

1,632 posts

92 months

Wednesday 3rd March 2021
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My tyres have finally died, so I'm in need of replacements. Now my last set were Continental Mountain Kings (26" wheel). These were £25, but appear to be OOS everywhere, and the readily available Trailkings are at least twice the price.

So, what replacement tyres are recommended? My riding is mostly forest trails

yellowjack

17,065 posts

165 months

Thursday 4th March 2021
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My 'go to' tyres would be Schwalbe on a MTB. Either Racing Ralphs if it's dry, or Nobby Nics if it's muddy. But everyone has their own experiences and opinions with tyres, so expect a lot of variety in what gets recommended. In the current climate you may also have to be willing to buy "whatever fits your wheels" and cross your fingers if the issues with stock haven't been fixed. With more people buying bikes, and recommissioning old bikes, there have been well documented issues in the supply chain for parts and complete bikes.

ETA: A quick Google threw up stock here... https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/schwalbe-racin... ...of the 2.1" wide version at £18.99. Although unlikely, it's possible someone else might have them cheaper.



Edited by yellowjack on Thursday 4th March 10:38

CharlieAlphaMike

1,127 posts

104 months

Friday 5th March 2021
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I'm running 26'ers on my Pace RC200 F6. Last year I fitted a Schwalbe Racing Ray to the front and a Schwalbe Nobby Nic (stupid name) to the rear. They are both 2.25's. Most of my riding is on forest trails. Some trails and a few hills are covered with loose gravel/stone, mostly dry but with the odd patch of wet and slippery surface.

The width makes them tricky to take wheels on and off (I have XTR V Brakes) but with some gentle persuasion, it's not a huge problem. If needed, I could let some air out which would make things easier.

The Racing Ray makes the front end a little twitchy but the bike is twitchy anyway and I like that. I've never felt I lacked grip at the front. The rear 'Nic' has great traction and feels really secure on all surfaces. I haven't lost traction going uphill yet, even on my steepest climbs (which always seem to have the loosest surfaces). As for punctures? I have Continental inner tubes and so far, I haven't had a puncture but never say never.