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I'm building up a 650b Trance and am getting confused by tyre options. I used to run Advantage back and front and generally like Maxxis tyres. I'm toying with Shorty up front and HR2 rear, or HR2 front and Ardent rear...
The tyres will be set up tubeless and the front wider on Flow EX rims. I ride Swinley a lot, but also go to the Alps regularly, but not for DH duties, preferring AM. I weigh 70kg all in and am becoming a more confident and aggressive rider who still likes to climb and attempt technical sections.
So, what are people running Maxxis wise and what of my choices?
All the best,
Dom
P.S. I've done a search....
I'm running a 2.3" Shorty front, 2.3" DHR2 rear and find them very good. Was running a DHF front but the Shorty works better in the slop. Tried a HR2 on the back but didn't get on with it as it struggled for grip climbing (ok going down tho).
I run EXO casing, TR if available and 3C on the front, normal compound on the back.
DH wheels are running Shorty front (EXO, 3C, TR), DHR2 rear (EXO, TR, 3C).
DHF EXO front and rear or DHF EXO front and Ardent rear.
For general year round use I've not found anything better than a DHF for the front, I just change the rear according to conditions, Spesh Butchers are supposed to be comparible.
No doubt Shortys would give more purchase in gloopy conditions but would be a fair bit slower on dry hardpack, I've not used them myself but it's prettty clear looking at the tread patterns.
Agree with stevied, didn't get on with a HR on the rear as the ramped knobs mean they offer little when it comes to uphill traction, excellent braking performance though.
Typical: acycles are out of stock of DHFs! Anyway, I've gone for DHF/DHR II combo, both 3C, Maxx terra, EXO and TR. Ooh, so many acronyms! I used nextdaytyres and the damage wasn't too bad...
Many thanks for your help.
All the best,
Dom
DHF Front (2.3 EXO TR MaxxTraction)
Ardent Race (2.2 EXO TR Maxxspeed)
Ran a minion on the front of my Mega TR before, so the Trance is no different. Good grip, rolls pretty well given the grip it gives, predictable and the weight is good as well.
This time of year the ardent race is fine on anything but the sloppy/deep mud. Round Swinley and trail centres it will be fine. Its the love child of an Ikon and Ardent, so quick rolling and a good amount of side bite. Braking traction is similar to an Ardent, not as good as a high roller or minion.
Will be racing at BPW in March and will be fitting a Minion to the back, as when you are pushing on, the Ardent Race gets a bit drifty.