So it's been like 4mo since I got my bike. In that time I've changed quite a few things about it, but yesterday was one of the single biggest upgrades I've made. Changed out the stock WTB Ranger tires for a tubeless setup (got my second flat after a night ride and was getting frustrated). Put an Assegai on the front and DHR II on the back. Front was 27.5x2.5 back was 27.5x2.4 I think, blanking out. Anyway, went for a ride through a chunkier track that previously caused me serious issues since I'm on a hardtail. Immediately two things stood out, first being that the Rangers were absolutely lightweight and holy fuck these two tires are H E A V Y. I used to be a mountain goat on the climbs and now it's a lot more legwork, not a big deal, get to shoot the shit with people more as I now stop with them for a rest. Secondly, these tires fucking eat rocks for breakfast, bite like hell on corners and roll infinitely faster. Feels like a dream going down that chunky section, before I felt like I was on a real rough rollercoaster where my back tire would bounce so much it was hard to gain grip for braking, now it'll stay much more planted, if I do hit something it just takes it like a champ and going down fire trails it feels like I'm flying.
Heard tires would make a huge difference but wasn't aware of just how much of a difference it would make. Absolutely in love with my setup now. I mean would also credit experience, first few times I went down this trail I was super green, but the tires alone inspire so much more confidence, it's wild. Used to worry so much about picking my lines due to chance of flats, now it's no worry. Next up is trying out being clipped in, seems scary lmao
Heard tires would make a huge difference but wasn't aware of just how much of a difference it would make. Absolutely in love with my setup now. I mean would also credit experience, first few times I went down this trail I was super green, but the tires alone inspire so much more confidence, it's wild. Used to worry so much about picking my lines due to chance of flats, now it's no worry. Next up is trying out being clipped in, seems scary lmao