Tires for DINO series XC races

[Michael Nevitt]

I'm running in the dino series XC races this year for the first time and I'm riding a 2015 Stumpjumper FSR. I'm running the stock Ground Control Butcher and Purgatory tires which I actually like a lot, but they could be faster rolling I'm finding. I'm looking for some advice and going to a tire that might be a little lighter and faster rolling. I don't mind sacrificing a little traction, as I know that compromise is the name of the game.

What do you race on?

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[Hocky]

Schwalbe Racing Ralph is a pretty fast tire that has reasonable grip and relatively durable.

[Otter]

Honestly, it's all a trade off for the most part, there is no silver bullet.  IMO, in the areas that DINO races, there's not a lot of need for tons of traction.  I would go with the fastest rolling combo that fits your liking and budget...with good sidewall protection!

With that said, I've used several sets over the years.  My two favorites have been Schwalbe Ralphs in the rear and Rocket Ron in the front and Specialized Renegades (front & rear).  The Renegades hook up much better than the look like they should, but aren't going to compare to what you're running now.  The Schwalbe combo hooked up a little better, but probably don't roll quite as fast.

[Fett]

I tend to run a very fast rolling rear and a knobbier front. At Sunday's BCSP race, I ran a Schwalbe Rocket Ron in the front and an ultra light, nearly bald Bontrager 29-0 on the rear. On dry hard pack and with low pressures, you really do not need much in the way of knobs.


If I have a wetter, slick race, I would put either a Maxxis Aspen or another Rocket Ron on the rear depending upon how techie and how slick it is.