Schwalbe XC Tyres

Schwalbe XC Tyres; a racing review

I recently conducted an extensive evaluation of three notable tyres from the Schwalbe XC line-up: the Racing Ralph, the Rick XC, and the Racing Ray. Each tyre was tested in real-world race conditions in the challenging terrain of Massa Marittima, Tuscany, Italy. This report aims to provide a detailed comparison of these tyres regarding speed, grip, handling, and overall performance, particularly for XC racing.

In addition to the tyre comparisons, I will also explore the performance of Aerothan TPU inner tubes in both tubeless and traditional setups. This analysis will cover aspects such as speed, grip, and rider feel to give a comprehensive view of how these components interact in XC racing scenarios.

Key Features

• Tyre Design:
  • The Racing Ralph: known for its fast-rolling capabilities with a tread pattern that balances speed and grip.
  • The Rick XC: this was my first interaction with this guy, so to speak. Rick XC is positioned as a middle ground between the Racing Ralph and Thunder Burt, offering a blend of speed and traction. I have been endlessly intrigued by the Schwalbe’s claims that this fits perfectly in some middle ground.
  • The Racing Ray: an “old” fellow and a very reliable one, in my book. Features a more aggressive tread pattern designed specifically for front-wheel use, providing enhanced grip in technical sections.

Performance Testing Methodology

To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, I conducted a series of tests focusing on speed, grip, and rider comfort over various terrains typical of XC racing courses. The testing involved:

1. Controlled Speed Tests: Using a GPS-enabled cycling computer to measure speed on flat and inclined sections.
2. Grip Assessment: Navigating technical descents and sharp corners to evaluate tyre performance under stress. The region of Massa Marittima gave me plenty of opportunity to test the “waters.”
3. Rider Feedback: As a 49 kg athlete standing at 177 cm, my feedback on comfort and fatigue levels was crucial in assessing overall performance. Why is this so important? Due to my rather low body weight, tyre pressure is super important and results in never-ending tinkering.
4. Rolling Resistance Measurements: Conducted on smooth and rougher surfaces to quantify differences between each tyre model.

Terrain Overview

Massa Marittima offers a mix of hard-packed trails, loose gravel sections, and rocky paths, ideal for testing the limits of XC tyres. The varied terrain allows for thorough assessment of each tyre’s capabilities in real-world conditions.

Speed Comparison

Rolling Resistance Analysis

Rolling resistance is one of the most critical factors influencing speed in XC racing.

1. Racing Ralph: Known for its low rolling resistance, the Racing Ralph performed exceptionally well on flat terrain, allowing me to maintain high speeds with minimal effort. This was particularly noticeable in one section where I was able to carry my speed through the curves.
2. Rick XC: This tyre was designed to be faster than the Racing Ralph while offering better grip than the Thunder Burt. My tests confirmed that it rolled smoothly on flat sections, providing slightly less resistance than the Racing Ralph due to its less aggressive tread pattern. I rode the route over and over again, and my gut feeling underpinned my statement.
3. Racing Ray: While slightly heavier than both the Racing Ralph and Rick XC, the Racing Ray still managed competitive speeds. This is due to its optimised tread design that reduces drag while maintaining grip. As you may know Schwalbe recommends the Racing Ray as a front tyre. I tested it front and rear, but felt it to be rather draggy in comparison.

Results Summary

• Flat Terrain:
  • The Racing Ralph averaged speeds of up to 28 km/h, making it one of the fastest rolling tyres in this test.
  • The Rick XC reached an average of 27 km/h, showcasing its efficiency as a race tyre.
  • The Racing Ray averaged around 26 km/h, slightly slower, but still competitive due to its focus on grip.
• Inclined Sections:
  • On climbs, the Rick XC showed its strength with its ability to maintain momentum without excessive effort.
  • The Racing Ralph excelled in maintaining speed, but required more effort on steep climbs due to its design focused primarily on speed.

Acceleration Tests

Acceleration was tested on both flat and inclined surfaces:

• Racing Ralph: Allowed for rapid acceleration out of corners thanks to its lightweight design and low rolling resistance. While the tyres are lightweight, they require a bit more effort to get started or “kick off” from a standstill or low speed. Once the tyres gain momentum however, they continue to roll without much additional effort. The design of the tread helps with better cornering at higher speeds. This allows you to maintain speed through turns without the need to repeatedly slow down and accelerate out of corners.
• Rick XC: While it initially felt slightly slower to accelerate compared to the Racing Ralph, once up to speed, it provided excellent traction on climbs. I had only one ‘moist’ day, after an overnight shower, so I didn’t get to test in the mud. I dare say, Rick would beat its brothers in stability under slippery conditions. It also bites better, making sudden hard braking its forte, in comparison to the other two.
• Racing Ray: Although heavier, offered reasonable steering behaviour thanks to its aggressive tread that grips well during initial take-off.

Grip and Handling Assessment

Cornering Stability

Grip is paramount in XC racing where cornering can significantly affect the ability to keep your momentum:

1. Racing Ralph: Handled corners exceptionally well thanks to its balanced tread pattern that provides adequate grip while rolling fast. It allowed me to navigate tight turns confidently without losing speed. However once mounted on the front, these good attributes diminished significantly.
2. Rick XC: The Rick’s added width increases the surface area in contact with the ground. This enhances stability during cornering, but requires slightly more effort to initiate turns compared to the narrower Racing Ralph.
3. Racing Ray: Designed specifically for front-wheel use, it provided superior cornering stability with its aggressive shoulder knobs that dug into loose surfaces effectively. Less so once the terrain becomes slippery though.

Technical Descent Performance

Downhill runs through rocky sections:

• The Racing Ralph excelled in maintaining speed while providing adequate grip. Everything under control as long as used as a rear tyre.
• The Rick XC offered solid performance with good traction, but felt less stable at high speeds compared to the other two tyres. I also felt they offered a slightly higher rolling resistance in these sections.
• The Racing Ray shone during technical descents. This was due to its aggressive tread design that inspired confidence when navigating through rough patches.

Rider Comfort and Fatigue Levels

As an athlete weighing only 49 kg, I find that tyre choice significantly impacts body fatigue levels during extended rides.

1. Racing Ralph: Provided a comfortable ride with minimal vibrations transmitted through the bike, allowing me to maintain focus throughout longer races without excessive fatigue. Admittedly, a ‘full-suss’ filters the majority of vibration, but still, given the at times extremely low-pressure, the vibration-filtering abilities were tangible.
2. Rick XC: While slightly heavier than the Racing Ralph, it offered good comfort levels due to its balanced design. This design mitigated the harsh impacts from rough terrain. I would say Rick gave me the biggest cushion.
3. Racing Ray: Despite being heavier than both competitors, it compensated with excellent grip which translated into fewer slips during technical sections – helping maintain confidence and reducing mental fatigue.

Alternatives to Schwalbe XC tyres

I also compared the Maxxis Ikon and Continental Xynotal tyres against our test tyres; here are my thoughts.

1. Maxxis Aspen ST: Known for versatility across various terrains, but often heavier than Schwalbe. I feel the Aspen ST doesn’t match the same level of low rolling resistance as Schwalbe’s Addix Speed compound tyres.
2. Continental Cross King: Offers strong grip, but tends to be heavier. This affects acceleration negatively compared to Schwalbe’s lightweight offerings.

While competitors provide viable options within the XC segment, Schwalbe’s combination of lightweight construction, advanced rubber compounds, and innovative tube technology positions it favourably within this competitive landscape.

Conclusions

Despite their many strengths, there are some considerations regarding Schwalbe XC tyres:

Cost Factor

Premium pricing may deter some racers; however, many find that the performance benefits justify the investment when competing at higher levels. Based on my experience, Racing Ralph and Racing Ray performed reasonably well in terms of wear. Rick XC needs more time to evaluate the ware attributes, but thus far it doesn’t show any major sign of rubber wear. In the upcoming period I’ll test it predominately on tarmac to; it will be interesting to see how it fares.

Durability Concerns on Rough Terrain

Although designed for XC racing:

• Some of my fellow racers have reported wear issues when subjected to extremely rocky trails over prolonged periods.
• Regular inspection for side wall tears is recommended for serious racers who frequently ride in harsh conditions.

Ultimately, selecting the right tyre could be pivotal in achieving your personal best on race day. You will have to decide whether you prioritize outright speed with the Racing Ralph, seek a balanced performance with the Rick XC, or require stability and grip with the Racing Ray.

Final Thoughts on Tyre Selection

1. Racing Ralph: Best suited for racers who prioritize speed and efficiency on smoother trails. Designated as a rear tyre, its lightweight design and low rolling resistance make it an excellent choice for flat or gently rolling courses where maintaining speed is crucial. However, be mindful of its grip in loose or technical conditions.
2. Rick XC: This tire serves as a great all-rounder, offering a blend of speed and traction. It is ideal for riders who encounter varied terrain and need a tyre that can handle both climbs and descents effectively. The Rick XC is particularly beneficial for those who want a versatile option without sacrificing too much speed. I am not surprised that the Canyon XCO UCI team demanded this middle-ground tyre. Schwalbe delivered greatly, in my book.
3. Racing Ray: Designed specifically for technical courses and as front tyre, it excels in providing grip and control during descents and cornering. It is perfect for riders who frequently navigate rough terrain and require confidence-inspiring handling. While it may not be the fastest on flat sections, its performance in technical situations makes it a valuable asset.

Final Testing Insights

Throughout my testing process in Tuscany, I consistently found that tyre choice significantly impacted not only speed, but also rider confidence and overall enjoyment during rides. Even though this statement is evident, each tyre brought its own strengths and weaknesses to the table. This reinforces the importance of selecting equipment tailored to specific racing conditions.

The good news is that Schwalbe fans have plenty of choice when it comes to XC tyres. Rick XC was overdue, and it really is a welcome addition to the stable. I’ll continue with this test marathon to add Schwalbe’s Thunder Burt and see how it fares in comparison.

In conclusion, whether you’re an elite racer or an enthusiastic amateur, understanding the nuances of each tyre model can lead to more informed decisions that ultimately enhance your racing experience. As you gear up for your next event or training session, take these insights into account to optimize your setup for success on the trails.

Acknowledgments

I would like to extend my gratitude to Schwalbe for providing these tyres for testing and to the local cycling community in Massa Marittima for their insights into local trail conditions. Their support has been invaluable in conducting this thorough evaluation.