The Secrets of Cross-Country Tyre Selection: A Deep Dive with an Elite Racer

The Importance of Tyres in Cross-Country Racing

As an elite cross-country racer, I know all too well the crucial role that tyres play in achieving success on the trails. While the rest of my colleagues may be obsessed with the thrill of riding, I've made it my mission to optimize every aspect of my equipment to gain that extra edge. And when it comes to tyres, the difference can be truly game-changing.

Without tyres, our bikes wouldn't even be touching the ground, let alone propelling us forward at lightning speeds. The terrain, conditions, and course characteristics all play a significant role in determining the right tyre choice. That's why I believe it's worth the effort to have a few sets of tyres at the ready, allowing me to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the race.

Wet Weather Tyres: Conquering the Mud

Let's start with the Maxxis Severe, my go-to choice for wet and muddy conditions. These tyres are designed to excel in the muck, with their large, aggressive knobs that dig into the ground and claw their way up even the steepest, slickest climbs. The wide spacing between the knobs also helps to clear away any debris, ensuring I maintain traction and control, even in the most challenging conditions.

What I love about the Severe is that they're not just limited to mud-fest races. They're actually quite fast-rolling on harder-packed terrain, too. The closely-spaced center knobs ensure I don't lose too much speed on the flats or during those high-intensity efforts. And the fact that they're a bit narrower than some of my other tyres (2.25 inches) helps to create that all-important clearance for mud-shedding.

So if you're looking for a true all-rounder that can handle the worst Mother Nature can throw at you, the Maxxis Severe is definitely worth a closer look. 

Dry Conditions: Prioritizing Speed and Grip

As the weather dries out, I can start to shift my focus towards tyres that prioritize speed and cornering performance. Two of my go-to options in these conditions are the Maxxis Icon and the Recon Race.

The Icon is a fantastic all-round tyre that strikes a great balance between rolling resistance and grip. The center knobs are tightly spaced for efficient rolling, while the shoulder knobs provide ample traction when I'm really pushing the limits in the corners. It's a versatile choice that can handle a wide range of terrain and conditions.

The Recon Race, on the other hand, is a bit more specialized. It has a slightly slicker center tread for maximum speed, but the larger shoulder knobs make it an absolute weapon when it comes to tackling off-camber sections or loose, rocky terrain. I find this tyre really shines when the ground is a bit damp but not fully saturated.

Tyre Width and Rim Width: The Perfect Pairing

As I mentioned, I've been running the Recon Race on some wider 33mm internal width rims. This is a trend I expect to see more of in the coming years, as riders and manufacturers alike recognize the benefits of pairing wider tyres with wider rims.

The wider rim provides more support for the tyre, allowing me to run lower pressures without the risk of the tyre rolling off the rim, even when I'm really pushing hard into the corners. This extra support and stability translates to improved traction and control, which is crucial when you're racing at the elite level.

In fact, I've noticed that some of the top pros, like Nino Schurter, have been experimenting with even wider 35mm rims. And the new Bikerhead and Halo wheelsets are also featuring 33mm internal widths, which is a clear indication that this trend is here to stay.

So if you're in the market for a new wheelset, or even just looking to upgrade your tyres, I'd highly recommend considering a wider rim profile to get the most out of your wider rubber. Shop the latest gear at BRINK to find the perfect setup for your needs.

Dry and Dusty: The Maxxis Aspen Shines

When the conditions are truly dry and dusty, the Maxxis Aspen is my absolute favorite. This tyre is all about speed and efficiency, with a fast-rolling center tread and just enough shoulder knobs to provide the grip I need when I'm really pushing the limits.

What I love about the Aspen is that it manages to deliver this incredible speed without sacrificing too much in the way of traction. The Maxx Speed rubber compound, which is infused with silica, provides excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions, while still rolling incredibly fast.

And the fact that it's available in a 2.4-inch width means I can run it with a Cush Core insert in the rear to add a bit of extra support and stability. This helps to prevent the tyre from wandering or rolling under hard cornering loads, which is crucial when you're racing at the elite level.

The Aspen is my go-to choice for those dry, hardpack courses where pure speed is the name of the game. But I'll admit, it's a bit of a one-trick pony, and I'll only really break it out a couple of times per year, typically for bike park-style courses where climbing and descending are the primary focus.

The Aspen ST: A Specialized Weapon

Speaking of specialized tyres, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the Maxxis Aspen ST. This is the slickest mountain bike tyre that Maxxis makes, and it's a true weapon for those ultra-fast, hardpack courses.

With its minimal tread pattern and 170 TPI casing, the Aspen ST is all about minimizing rolling resistance and maximizing speed. It's a tyre that I'll only really break out for the most specific of race courses, where I know I can get away with sacrificing some outright grip in exchange for those precious seconds on the clock.

The 2.25-inch width is a deliberate choice, as I find that the narrower profile provides a bit more support and stability when I'm really pushing the limits, especially on those high-speed G-outs and take-offs. And the fact that it's around 120 grams lighter per tyre than the standard Aspen is just the icing on the cake.

Of course, the Aspen ST is a very niche tyre, and it's not something I'd recommend for the average rider. But for those elite-level racers who are chasing every last bit of performance, it's definitely worth considering as part of your quiver.

Pressure is Key: Finding Your Sweet Spot

Now, I know I've spent a lot of time talking about the different tyre options and their unique characteristics, but I'd be remiss if I didn't touch on the importance of air pressure as well.

In my experience, the tyre itself is the more critical factor when it comes to dialing in your setup. But once you've got the right rubber, finding the perfect air pressure can make a world of difference in terms of ride quality, traction, and overall performance.

As a general rule, I like to start with 15 PSI in the front and 15.5 PSI in the rear, and then make adjustments from there based on the conditions and my personal preferences. I find that this baseline pressure provides a good balance of grip, comfort, and rolling resistance, and then I can fine-tune it as needed.

Of course, the optimal pressure will vary depending on factors like your weight, the terrain, and the tyre you're running. But the key is to experiment and find that sweet spot that works best for you. Don't be afraid to try different pressures and see how it affects the way your bike handles. It could make all the difference in your performance.

Conclusion: Embracing the Tyre Geekery

At the end of the day, I know that my obsession with tyres might seem a bit over the top to some. But as an elite racer, I firmly believe that every little detail counts, and that includes the rubber that connects my bike to the ground.

By taking the time to understand the nuances of different tyre designs, compounds, and widths, I've been able to find the perfect setup for my needs, whether I'm battling through the mud or chasing top speeds on a dry, hardpack course.

And I'd encourage all of you, whether you're a seasoned racer or a weekend warrior, to embrace a bit of tyre geekery as well. Experiment with different options, pay attention to how they affect your ride, and don't be afraid to try something new. You might just be surprised at the difference it can make.

So there you have it – my deep dive into the world of cross-country tyre selection. I hope this has given you a better understanding of the factors to consider and the options available. And remember, BRINK has a great selection of tyres to choose from, so be sure to check them out when you're ready to upgrade your setup.

Happy riding, and may your tyres always be the perfect match for the terrain!

Key Takeaways

• Tyres are crucial in cross-country racing, as they are the only connection between your bike and the ground.
• The Maxxis Severe is an excellent all-round tyre for wet and muddy conditions, with its large knobs and good rolling resistance.
• The Maxxis Icon and Recon Race are great options for drier conditions, balancing speed and grip.
• Wider rims (33mm+) provide more support for wider tyres, improving traction and control.
• The Maxxis Aspen is the go-to tyre for pure speed and efficiency in dry, dusty conditions.
• The Aspen ST is a specialized tyre for the fastest, hardpack courses, prioritizing minimal rolling resistance.
• Finding the right air pressure is key, with 20 PSI front and 21 PSI rear as a good starting point.
• Embracing tyre geekery can help you find the perfect setup for your needs and riding style.

Remember, you can shop a wide selection of tyres at BRINK to find the perfect match for your cross-country setup. And be sure to follow us on Instagram and TikTok for more insights and updates from the world of cycling.

Happy trails!