Michelin XC Dry2

Designed as a fast riding hard-pack and dry trail tire, the XC Dry2 uses a similar tread as their World Cup winning XCR Dry2, but employs higher knobs and a denser rubber compound for added durability. Flat protection and sidewall strength is also beefed up thanks to the XC Dry2’s 60 TPI thread casing.

Out in the real world, the first thing I noticed was how much faster the XC Dry2’s were than the large, deep treaded rigs I usually ride. The XC Dry2’s conservative, closely spaced knobs were a joy when brought up to speed, as is the tire’s reasonable weight of 590 grams (26x2.00). This zip was especially appreciated when accelerating out of tight, uphill corners or while blasting over small, steep rises on windy single track.

On smooth hard-pack, the XC Dry2 truly shines. It offers great bite while climbing and predicable handling when banked into corners on the way back down. Tree routes and the packed black earth that go with them is another environment the XC Dry2 eats up. Plus, the XC Dry2 handles smooth rocky outcropping with ease and was not slowed down by the occasional, and usually harsh, rocky mountain rock garden.

Solid duality and fine puncture resistance round out the package. All in all, the XC Dry2 makes a fine high-performance choice for anyone who likes to go fast on the smooth stuff.

Retail price $37

More info at: www.teammichelin.com