So I just picked-up a somewhat unique bike, Scalpel SE2. I say it’s unique because it’s 120/115mm, super high bottom bracket, super short wheelbase, steeper head-tube angle. After really enjoying bombing down big stuff with 20mm more travel than I’m accustomed to, I realized this bike performs ext…

I’m surprised that you find the Ardent sketchy relative to Mezcal. Could it be just how the new bike feels?

@Jonathan needs to weigh in given his tire nerd skills

What’s the internal rim width on your wheels? I wouldn’t go with a 2.6" tire up front unless your running 30mm internal width or wider wheels. FWIW, a lot of people don’t like the Ardent and find it to feel a little sketchy, so if you aren’t digging it, you certainly wouldn’t be alone. It might be …

Nice bikes! I ride all sorts of terrain and have tried loads of the Maxxis tyres to date. For XCM racing I like my Fox 100m SC forks and carbon hoops with a 2.35 Ardent race up front. (120 TPI, eco 3c max speed and all that jazz). 2.2 Ikon on the rear. If I’m playing around and exploring trails I…

Did you try the tires off your other bike?

[image] kelseyh: What’s the internal rim width on your wheels? 26mm internal. Sorrry to leave that off, kind of essential.

Also, if this is a 2.25" in the rear, is going to a 2.35" back there a bad idea? [image] I’ll get real measurements when I get home and have the calipers.

[image] dprimm: Did you try the tires off your other bike? No because I expect differing needs from the different terrain and style of riding.

You might be able to squeeze a 2.35 in there. Do you really need it though? I like a 2.35 up front, but don’t feel the need for one on the rear. Another thing that has happened on my old hardtail is that a fat chunky tyre on the back drags crap through the alluminium frame occasionally. I tend to …

How to pick an MTB tire, sizing, surfaces

Equipment

TLRozzle August 1, 2019, 6:19pm 3

Highly likely.

I noticed when I went from an Ikon to the Saguaro and then to the Mezcal that the front tire felt more and and more planted initially.

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How to pick an MTB tire, sizing, surfaces

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