XC/Trail

In this category we find the Transition Spur, a fast, light XC/Trail bike that is perfect for nearly all of Kingdom Trails. Our tire pairing of choice (and Transitions) is the Maxxis Dissector in front and the Recon in the rear….both in a 29x2.4. The Dissector is often thought of as a rear tire due to its aggressive side knobs but Transition opted to put it up front on the Spur to maximize traction and cornering while pairing it with the Recon, an aggressive yet fast rolling XC/Trail tire, in the rear. Although fully capable for aggressive trail riding, we find this tire combo to be wonderfully suited for trails like Fence Line, Pound Cake, Webs, East Branch, Ridge, Knob and SO MANY More KT Trails

Trail/Enduro

Here we find our Giant Trance/Giant Trance X/Liv Intrigue line-up. These bikes feature more travel than the Spur, giving up some of the speed and weight advantages of the Spur while still being perfect all-arounders for everything KT has to dish out, and then some. Whereas Transition opted for the Dissector up front, Giant/Liv rolls with the Dissector 29x2.4 on the rear paired with a Maxxis Minion DHF in a slightly wider 29x2.5 up front. The Minion DHF features a tread pattern that balances rolling speed with solid braking and cornering traction and will get you up and down the gnarliest rides KT or Victory Hill has to dish out. Some highlight names for Kingdom Trails here would be Black Bear, Stormin Normin, Sidewinder, and Moose Alley.

Enduro/DH/Park

Our final category of bikes/tires includes our Giant Reign and Transition Sentinel. While both of these bikes can be enjoyed anywhere on KT, their geometry and travel are best suited to eat up the rougher stuff out in the Moose Haven section of KT, Victory Hill, and the Burke Mountain Bike Park. The tire pairing here, a Maxxis Assegai 29x2.5 in front and a Maxxis DHR II 29x2.4 in the rear, is designed with these bikes and this type of riding in mind. The Assegai is a triple compound (3C) tire which also features a dual-ply downhill casing. It weighs a little more…but it’s bullet-proof, and its tall knobs inspire confidence over every surface and provide great hold through the corners.

Selecting the right mountain bike tires is a crucial decision that impacts your riding performance, safety, and overall enjoyment. Whether you ride XC/Trail, Trail/Enduro, or Enduro/DH/Park, understanding the recommended tire pairings can enhance your biking experience. Remember, the tire options may seem overwhelming, but with the guidance of trusted brands like Maxxis and the expertise of Village Sport Shop, you can confidently choose the ideal tires for your next adventure. Stay tuned for a follow-up article where we delve deeper into the technical aspects of mountain bike tires.