Submitted by
Matthias
a Cross Country Rider
from Stuttgart, Germany Date Reviewed: August 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
street
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
VERY FAST!!! great grip on dry streets, lasts long (Speedmax HDK)
Weaknesses:
low grip in corners on wet street, difficult to drive off-road at high speeds (corners!!)
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey SpeedMax Alpha/Omega
Bike Setup:
hardtail, Shimano XT, Magura HS22 brakes
Bottom Line:
For streets there's no better tire, also very useful for cross-country on hard tracks; very difficult to drive on loose ground (sand, gravel), beginners shouldn't use it off-road
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy Nicholson
a Weekend Warrior
from Athens, Ohio Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
light weight, look good, good for on campus and light off road
Weaknesses:
not a whole lot of grip
Bottom Line:
cheap, last long time
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Klaus Winstel
a Racer
from Stuttgart, Germany Date Reviewed: October 18, 2001
Favorite Trail:
All in Black Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Purchased with bike
Strengths:
Roll very fast! Lightwight! Good grip on many tracks for a semislick (except gravel and sand).
Weaknesses:
Problematic cornering on gravel and sand. Price! Have a high rate of wear.
Fully, Bergwerk Moonraker, Acros Mamba AIR, Magura Luise Diskbrake at the front, Magura HS33 Brake at the rear
Bottom Line:
I'm just drive this tire on long distance races (about 50-80 kilometers), because it's lightwight and fast rolling. Mostly you have all conditions on this races (asphalt, stony, mud, roots), and the conditions are more difficult than cross country races (difficult uphills and fast downhills). Normally (out of race) i prefer the IRC Mythos XC Kevlar, because you can drive faster on corners, and have more fun on downhills - but overall the speedmax is faster! I'm surprised by this tire, the grip is much better i think (also in mud). I had Alpha on front and (turn around) on back. If you thing about the weakness of this tire (you have to slow down speed at gravel corners!) you can ride it very well. On the other side there is no response before the tire loses grip - it slips away and you get down! So beginners shoudn't use this tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Claus
a Racer
from Bonn, Germany Date Reviewed: September 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Flims Rockfall, Laax, Switzerland
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
H&S Bike Discount
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, pretty smooth and comfortable rolling (WCS version), light-weight enough, little inclination for punctures (at least the WCS version hasn't), good traction even on muddy ground (what's still a wonder to me, even after 2 years of using this tire). Doesn't accumulate dirt.
Weaknesses:
Little control and braking power on loose ground like gravel and sand. High priced.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos Slick Kevlar. Not used that much in heavy conditions, but it seems to roll rougher.
Bike Setup:
Stevens 8.1.2 race, so far. Replaced by Stevens M9 pro disc next week.
Bottom Line:
My preferred tube used from spring to autumn. Though pretty nervous on loose ground it's the perfect tire for marathons and other races. Positive properties compensate the demand for high driving skills.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mission Trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Price, low rolling resistance, fast
Weaknesses:
Very specialized tire. Anything other than road or extremely firm hardpack is asking too much of the minimal tread. Front is not suitable for technical descents.
Similar Products Used:
Michelin Wildgripper XLS/Front S
Bike Setup:
2001 Schwinn Moab 1
Bottom Line:
Unfortunately, I have to blame the worst crash I've had in a long time on these tires. Going down a steep, technical descent under continuous braking, my front tire washed out faster than I ever thought was possible. I went from being upright and in full control to flat on my side in about 1/8 of a second. I was shocked--and bloody--and I couldn't believe how quickly the front tire washed out on me. All because the front tire was a little more weighted than usual (though I did have my rear-end hanging off the back of the saddle) and there were a few grains of gravelly sand on that spot of the trail. That's all it took. I noticed throughout the ride that on descents of any speed, the front tire tracked terribly and became extremely sketchy.
I have to say I was impressed with how fast the tires were and the lack of rolling resistance, particularly on the road. However, I would advise anyone considering these tires that unless your rides are 100% on road surfaces or extremely firm, road-like hardpack, without a grain of sand or gravel, and with no particularly steep descents, these tires can let you down without a moment's notice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sjoerd Theeuwen
a Cross Country Rider
from Venlo,Netherlands Date Reviewed: July 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
street ,park ,off-road.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
the slick,very many grip on hard sand-tracks,works very well on streets when it rains.
Weaknesses:
Sand stays a long time on it, and the profile isn't very well because when at sharp corners you may fall because the tire "leads his own life" sometimes.
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
BMX 20" weels
Bottom Line:
I think It's a very good tire for Beginners, because when a well-trainted biker use the tire he can't make all the moves with the tire because at some moments the tire "leads his own life" and that can be catatrophic at some places. And beginners almost don't make very difficult moves.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Weekend Warrior
from Modesto, CA US of A Date Reviewed: June 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
One that makes me ride faster than I can think
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
Supergo (Price is for the set; front and rear specific: Alpha & Omega)
Strengths:
Light, Fast, and great for when you're on the road too. They grip hard pack better than what I should expect from my tires.
Weaknesses:
Obviously they don't have much bite in the thick stuff, but I try to be smarter than my tires and not ride them where they aren't supposed to be ridden.
Similar Products Used:
black, round, rubber tires with knobs on them.
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC DS1, w/Hayes Hydro's and overweight rider.
Bottom Line:
I ride XC in the foothills and mountains of Northern CA. Mostly dry hardpack and forest floor stuff, I like the uphill climbs, and the downhill technicals.
These tires do more than what they should. I am totally surprised that they hold on to what they hold on to, when they are holding on to it. Mortal tires should have slipped and sent me hurtling through the air long before these decide to continue to hold the line I choose at the speed I choose! Haven't tried them in the wet, and won't. I also like them on the road, they don't make me feel like I'm wasting power on noisy, flexing knobs...I too am going to buy another set for the future.
Honestly folks, these tires have yet to let me know that I'm going too fast and turning too tight. They have expanded my limits as well as my speed and confidence!
With the price at Supergo, how can you go wrong?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Rochester, NY, US Date Reviewed: June 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tryon Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Cheap, excellent on road, virtually no rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
If there's rain in the forecast within the next week, change tires.
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey Z-max, Michelin Wildgripper Comp S
Bike Setup:
Homegrown Cannondale
Bottom Line:
If you're going to ride where it gets wet avoid. Got stuck in a thunderstorm and would have been better walking. Terrrible on wet hardpack.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bay Area MTBGuy
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, Ca Date Reviewed: June 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Wilder Ranch, Enchanted Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Some shop in Santa Cruz
Strengths:
Looks, speed
Weaknesses:
None that I've seen, as long as you know what conditions you'll be riding in.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Team Master & Control
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight with XTR and Marzocchi Z.2 Atom 80 (my bike is SWEEEET!)
Bottom Line:
There's no question that these are a "dry conditions" tire. Don't even bother to buy them if you live somewhere that it rains often. But you have to remember that Ritchey lives right here in the Bay Area, and we get NO!!! rain from May through November. Just bone-dry hardpack and dust. I've been riding these bad boys for some time now, and they are fast and hook up tight. So if you remember where they're made for, or want a faster tire for race day (and it's NOT supposed to rain! ;)... then these are the tires for you. I'm about to buy a few more sets just in case they stop making them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Haywood Jablowme
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: March 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Middle Peak
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Roll EXTREMELY FAST!! Corner great, lightweight and look great. Oh yeah, the roll fast too.....
Weaknesses:
Not for the novice rider!! Get sketchy on loose gravel (as you would expect with this type of tire!) not good in any type of wet type of conditions. Wear pretty fast. Not made for any real technical downhilling.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Revolt, Specialized Team control/master, Tioga Psycho (ie; Piece of cr@p!!!)
Bike Setup:
Manitou Mars1 Fork, Mavic 217 CD Ceramic SUP wheels, LX/XT Drivetrain, 7005 Aluminum Hardtail, straight bars with shorty barends.
Bottom Line:
These tires are amazing when used for they are intended for!! These are NOT FOR THE WEAK!!!! They work fantastic on the hardpack and dry conditions. They hook up great in the turns and climb great. They roll extremely fast and make pedaling on all surfaces much easier. It feels like I am in a lower gear when I ride these tires. Once they start to wear they lose their bite. These tires tend to break loose under braking on the downhills. The back end of the bike will slide if you don't watch what you are doing. I really like the tires but I think that would rather have a tire with a bit more nob on them. Again it is my fault though, these are XC RACING TIRES and not your everyday trail cruisers. NOTE: IF YOU WANT TO BEAT YOUR FRIENDS ON A DRY COURSE....BUY THESE TIRES!! I'll give 'em four flaming turdballs for value and a mighty 5 flaming turdballs overall!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Haywood Jablowme
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: March 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Middle Peak
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Roll EXTREMELY FAST!! Corner great, lightweight and look great. Oh yeah, the roll fast too.....
Weaknesses:
Not for the novice rider!! Get sketchy on loose gravel (as you would expect with this type of tire!) not good in any type of wet type of conditions. Wear pretty fast. Not made for any real technical downhilling.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Revolt, Specialized Team control/master, Tioga Psycho (ie; Piece of cr@p!!!)
Bike Setup:
Manitou Mars1 Fork, Mavic 217 CD Ceramic SUP wheels, LX/XT Drivetrain, 7005 Aluminum Hardtail, straight bars with shorty barends.
Bottom Line:
These tires are amazing when used for they are intended for!! These are NOT FOR THE WEAK!!!! They work fantastic on the hardpack and dry conditions. They hook up great in the turns and climb great. They roll extremely fast and make pedaling on all surfaces much easier. It feels like I am in a lower gear when I ride these tires. Once they start to wear they lose their bite. These tires tend to break loose under braking on the downhills. The back end of the bike will slide if you don't watch what you are doing. I really like the tires but I think that would rather have a tire with a bit more nob on them. Again it is my fault though, these are XC RACING TIRES and not your everyday trail cruisers. NOTE: IF YOU WANT TO BEAT YOUR FRIENDS ON A DRY COURSE....BUY THESE TIRES!! I'll give 'em four flaming turdballs for value and a mighty 5 flaming turdballs overall!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland, OR, USA Date Reviewed: March 11, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Fat Tire Farm
Strengths:
Light, fast rolling, corners like they're on rails and they look pretty cool ;)
Weaknesses:
Rarity?
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Revolt Super-X
Bike Setup:
Klein Adept
Bottom Line:
Note: This review is for the Ritchey SpeedMax WCS (blue kevlar) Alpha (front) and Omega (rear) 1.9" tires.
Trying to find this specific set of tires was a serious pain in the ass for me. But eventually, I found the last pair at a local shop for $50 each. I'm tempted to buy a few more pairs just in case Ritchey stops making them for some stupid reason ;)
I wanted a very fast rolling hardpack XC tire and I found it with these. I absolutely love these tires. They corner so well, it's almost scary.
I actually put the rear tire on backwards so it would roll faster. Doing it that way pretty much kills its traction on muddy hills, but since I don't ride in mud, who cares? :)
If you want a super-fast rolling, hardpack, great cornering, XC tire and you're smart enough to realize that these tires aren't meant for super messy, slippery nastiness then I highly recommend them. They honestly allow me to ride faster and more efficiently.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lukasz Szmit
a Cross Country Rider
from Poland Date Reviewed: March 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Any which allows me to get the kick I like :-)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
Cyklo2, Gliwice, Poland (set of Alfa/Omega)
Strengths:
Extremely quiet, perfect grip on wet hardpack even in turns. Light, good looking. Hard to pinch (4 pinches in 2 years).
Weaknesses:
Wear on Omega (replaced after 6000km). Hard to take off/put on the rim
Bike Setup:
Does not matter.
Bottom Line:
If you look for a good all-round XC tire: these are the ones. I wouldn't buy them if I were an Really-Extreme-XC-biker - there are better ones for this purpose :-))
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jan Lorenzen
a Weekend Warrior
from Denmark Date Reviewed: December 20, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
40
Strengths:
Speeed, quiet, looks, control on hardpack
Weaknesses:
Wear on reartire, pricey (WCS-model), traction and control on anything else than hardpack
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos, Panaracer Smoke/Dart/Spike, ZMax
Bike Setup:
RedBull Hardtail w XT, RS JudyXC+Seatpost, Magura HS33
Bottom Line:
I'm running the WCS-version; 2.1 front and 1.9 rear (I'm only 140lb..)
First look is nothing special; they sort of look like anything else, just blue and a little less profile. But they are fast and superquiet. I noticed the difference at once when running on tarmac getting to and back the forest. My speed went up a couple of miles just because of the tires. The same thing is true on hardpack, they just keep on running!
Control/cornering was different for me at first, but a little practice and it worked like charm. One gripe though: You have to stay sharp and in control. They are more unforgiving than normal tires when you decide to take a nap while cornering (a stupid thing to to anyway)
But it's pretty obvious why people are complaining about this tire. It's not an allround-tire. It's pretty bad on anything else than tarmac and hardpack. I have had a couple close encounters on wet/muddy stuff and the trails in Denmark are pretty flat. It wears out pretty fast on the rear and the WCS-model is pricey
As your doctor says: Use 'em as directed and you will be happy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave wilson
a Cross Country Rider
from tillamook, oregon, usa Date Reviewed: September 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
bay city
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$32.00
Purchased At:
excel
Strengths:
looked cool
Weaknesses:
wasn't cool
Similar Products Used:
specialized tri-cross, michelin cyclecross speed
Bike Setup:
cyclocross commuter
Bottom Line:
I mail ordered this trash from excel sports because they recommended them as an all-conditions on/off road commuter for a size 700 wheel. I got a pinch flat at least once a week and usually every other ride. I tried to economise & not buy the Michelin Cyclecross tires and now I've bought enough tubes & patch kits to have bought the Michelins twice over. Do not buy these for cyclocross. Tom Richey owes me 31.99 plus s&h. Zero flaming cow poopies.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cristian Georgescu
a Weekend Warrior
from Bucharest, Romania Date Reviewed: August 31, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Magelan
Strengths:
SUPERFAST, good cornering, good front braking for a semislick tire (Alpha) and good traction on dry/hardpack (Omega).
From a performance point of view, these tires KICK ASS. FAST, good cornering, predictible. Because these tires are VERY condition-specific, some problems should be expected. Don't try them in mud/wet or DH. Don't expect the rear one to brake on grass/loose/dirt/mud (front brake is OK on dry). Don't expect to climb on dust/loose/grass/wet. Don't expect pinch-free long rides. Don't expect years of usage. The rear one is F1-type superslick after 3 months of heavy weekend usage. They are hard to get on/off the rim, which is strange because I'm using Rithey OCR/Rock rims !!!
Buy these if you're a serious XC rider looking for best performance on dry/hardpack. But don't buy these if you're a casual rider.
5 chilis for SpeedMax Alpha and 4 for Omega because of premature wearing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Slim Tree Shadow
a
from Oregon Date Reviewed: August 27, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
I'm using a 2.1 Speedmax on the back with a Michellin Wildgripper Cross Country on the front (also 2.1). This is actually a good set up for where I ride (lots and lots of sand). I immediately noticed the speed. This is a really fast tire. And it corners fairly well... although I think most of the cornering feel comes from the front tire, with the back tire doing all the digging during climbs. The tread pattern is quite good on the Speedmax and it climbs well. It would be fun to try this in like a 2.3 for the loose conditions around here. It's suprisingly good in the sand. And it handles hardpack conditions well of course (which is all there is in Oregon in the valley around August - which makes this tire really fun on trails like Goodman! Damn fast). But I live in Bend. There's lots of sand here.
I'll update later after much abuse. I still don't know how it will hold up in the long run. For now it's a great tire on the rear, and a good fit for my steel Salsa. Plus I got it for about 28 bucks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
a Cross Country Rider
from Exeter, England Date Reviewed: June 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
woodbury
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Speed, fantastic as a rear in bone dry conditions.
Weaknesses:
This tyre will kill you or at least try on the front. it doesn't matter how experienced you are.
Similar Products Used:
pana xc pro, smoke, dart
Bike Setup:
db alu hardtail fill xt
Bottom Line:
I've just got out of casulty with a broken elbow and upper arm that shattered because of this tyre, I know this tyre is "condition specific" but this is rediculous, I've only ever used it in the dry but the british weather is changes so quickly so that you start out when it's bone dry then it pi$$es down and within minutes then your screwed with this tyre on any surface, the front washes out even if you spit on it. If you pair the rear tyre with a xc pro up front your ok, but don't ever put this on the front unless your at least an elite rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Canton, MI Date Reviewed: May 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Island Lake
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light Great on hardpack or concrete
Weaknesses:
Dont lock the rear on grass!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Revolt
Bike Setup:
Diamond Back Reactor BMX bike
Bottom Line:
Uh oh, does that say BMX bike? Sure does! I have been riding mountain bikes for XC, drops, trials and dirt jumping. Thought Id try something new. It was well worth it. (I still have 4 mountain bikes)
I tried some Revolts for racing last year on my Cannondale. No matter how fast semi-slicks are I hate them. We get a very thin layer of loose sand over most hard pack here in MI inthe summer. Semis dont stick to that at all in turns.
Anyway, I got the crap scared out of me yesterday with the Speed Maxs. Coming down the hill toward my dorm, I overshot a sidewalk while doing a hard turn. I hit that grass with a little too much rear brake and spun a 360 at 20 mph. I jumped off the bike and kept going, luckily down a grass hill on foot right at my girlfriend's car. AHHHH! Almost crapped my pants. I plan to replace these with some fat 2.25" dirt tires. The Speed Maxs have a max pressure of 40 psi and that isnt good when you are doing trials and dropping off stuff. I feel my rims bottoming every time. The tires are over pressure right now at 45 psi.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Everitt
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Date Reviewed: April 3, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Speed..............
Weaknesses:
Rear tyre wear rate, colour
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Merida MATTS special edition
Bottom Line:
Excellent tyre for riding around Sydney, and the surrounding countryside. Have had no problems with grip at all in summer...just don't like the colour.
Man do these tyres go fast, and boy do I like to go fast!
Offroad they have never let me down and I have ridden just about everywhere I can think of.
The rear tyre is bolding now but I have ridden excessively. Front one has held up magnificantly, almost as new. Can anyone suggest a rear tyre as fast with better wear characterisics (that's available in Australia?)
Was going to lose one chilli for the wear rate, however they have been to much fun!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank burrito
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA, USA! Date Reviewed: April 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Fast!
Weaknesses:
front tire is dangerous...overall does not inspire confidence...kinda pricey
Similar Products Used:
serfas drifters
Bike Setup:
trek 6k w/ cockpit mods
Bottom Line:
Ok..assuming you change your style to one of more finesse and assuming you ride exclusively on hardpack, these tires will carve corners with the best of 'em--not to mention the fact they are really fast. But if you run into some mud, oh boy, forget about it- these things are suicidal...I had some scary moments. This is definitely not a tire for beginners. I ended up keeping the rear tire and putting on a conventional knobby on the front and the results were great. This, I believe, is the best compromise--very good speed and excellent tracking this way
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fick
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Rosa, CA Date Reviewed: October 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
any fast and windy through the trees
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Super fast , SUPER FAST Excelent tire for Hard packed trails and slick rock
Weaknesses:
If the trial is the least bit dusty or loose , these tires have traction like wet soap on ice. (YIKES !)
Similar Products Used:
Contientals XC Pannaracer Dart & Smoke
Bike Setup:
S.C. Heckler, Manitou SXr, Fox Vanillia
Bottom Line:
I thought that the trials I ride on were packed enough for these tires, I was wrong. I wouldn't call trails loose just dusty. Oh - Momma ! I know where all the Gravelly, the Leafy, and semi loose sections are. The rear tire would lockup at the slightest ( and I mean Slightest) touch of the rear break. And the frount tire would just wash out on me around the smallest turns. made for a real interesting ride. On the nice hard surfaces though these tires ran , and ran FAST ! and they would corner like they were on rails. If you are going to get these tires make sure they suit your terrain, and these will be the best rubbers you ever sliped on! 5 flamming fast chillies for hard pack 1 flamming Holy Sh*T theses tires don't break for any thing else = 3 chillies
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Huang Chuntg
a Racer
from Toronto, canada Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Submarine rock, Sedona, Arizona
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
C'est tres vite, that means fast for you Americanos. Ride them for racing, hardpack, loose, sand, dry to moist but not wet.
Weaknesses:
Be careful when it's wet and cornering
Bike Setup:
conti cross country 1.5 on the tear @ 70 lb and speedmax omega wcs 1.9 on the front.
Bottom Line:
If you want to go fast when racing and in the right conditions, you will go so fast you might have to wear a diaper. But don't be a loser and use them when it's soaking wet and then write a review like a crybaby saying they don't do work well. They also look fly.......
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Murray
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario Date Reviewed: October 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Fast and light. Surprisingly good traction.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Kona Lava Dome, Z4 Bomber.
Bottom Line:
These are my racing tires. Some people have listed poor traction as a weakness, but hey, these are semi-slicks intended for speed, so less traction has to be expected. I've raced these tires on hardpack, sand, rocks, and even in the rain. They are awesome tires, however with less traction and higher speeds you have to really pay attention to what you're doing. Ride on everybody!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Okie
a Cross-Country Rider
from Blanchard, Oklahoma Date Reviewed: September 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Chicken Barn Road
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Fast and durable on hard pack surface such as a dirt road or pavement.
Weaknesses:
Floats in sand, and looses traction on medium grade gravel. But they are slicks, so this would be expected.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Raliegh M80 with Ritchey Speedmax F&R 2.0 Kevlar
Bottom Line:
I got mine to use on dirt roads with sandy, and gravel sections. Great tires for going fast on pavement, and dirt roads. Work perfectly for me, but I only use them in ideal conditions for them. If you are going to ride on something loose, use common sense and switch to something with traction. Ride hard, Ride Fast, Ride Ritchey Speedmax!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean C.
a Cross-Country Rider
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: September 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
OPEN ONES DAMN PARK ADVISORY BOARD!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Follow Up Post: Light, Fast....Fairly Versitile...STILL NOT GREEN
Weaknesses:
DOH! THIS TYPE OF TIRE ABSOLUTELY SUCKS IN LOOSE GRASS, FALLEN LEAVES AND PINE NEEDLES... I'm STILL HEALING FROM A GOOD SPILL..Still Would Lik 1.9F/1/7RThey also have TOO MUCH Floatation in the SAND.
Similar Products Used:
WTB RACING RAPTORS...the rear one SURE SUCKED!
Bike Setup:
1999 GIANT XTC Se
Bottom Line:
BOY...I like them right up until the leaves start falling....damn I hit the ground hard...it was JUST LIKE ICE... Consider you TERRAIN...AND SEASONS CAREFULLY
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Gates
a Cross-Country Rider
from Powell, TN Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
A follow-up to my last posting: The tires are still holding up well after a couple months. The waffle-like tread in the center is still intact, unlike those on some other reviewer's bikes. These tires, I have found, work great on any of the trails I ride, and actually don't do that bad in the mud, or on the street. As long as they don't wear as quick as my tiogas did, i'll guess i'll have to upgrade my rating. I'll post another update in a few months.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gabe Cotten
a Cross-Country Rider
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: July 11, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
fast rolling very rarely slip sweet blue sidewall foldable
Weaknesses:
not as light as other semi-slicks
Similar Products Used:
first pair of semi-slicks, pannaracer fire xc pro, specialized master and control comp
Bike Setup:
GT LTS with Z2 bomber,xt, nuke wheels,rs super deluxe
Bottom Line:
These tires are the first semi-slick tires i've ever tried. At first i was wasn't sure about using them on a full suspention rig, but i gave them a shot and i love them. the only thing that could be better id the weight. the 2.1 weighs in at 545 grams. not that it's a big deal to me but for racers there are lighter semi-slicks. These sweet blue tires get a 5 star rating
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean C.
a Cross-Country Rider
from Houston, TEXAS Date Reviewed: July 6, 1999
ONLY AVAILABLE 2.0 in WCS Width? How about 1.9 front and 1.7 rear?PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
WTB Racing Raptors
Bike Setup:
'99 Giant XTC Se-1 Rock Shox Judy XC...self tuned
Bottom Line:
Got it out back and LOVE IT! Front one is on order...CLIMBS OVER ROOTTED HILLS LIKE MOUNTAIN GOAT!Consider me Loyal....UNTIL THE KENDA KOZMIK LITE COMES OUT!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
HJ Seeley
a Cross-Country Rider
from Lansing, MI Date Reviewed: June 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all trails are good
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
It's fast
Weaknesses:
But not all that much faster than similar tires.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Mach SS
Bike Setup:
K2 5000 Pro-Flex 857 Both w/Noleen susp and the usual XT/XTR stuff.
Bottom Line:
These are VERY condition specific rubber. Don't think anything else!If you're thinking of buying one set of tires for all condition riding - this isn't the tire for you.The Panaracer Mach SS is noticeably better in the corners and on loose stuff.The trails I ride on are never just hardpack. Sections that are wet, muddy or sandy always exist to some level.These tires are marketed as ATB tires - not road tires. They're expensive. They don't make the grade. Keep looking.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M. Gates
a Cross-Country Rider
from Powell, TN Date Reviewed: May 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Virginia Creeper
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
pretty smooth ride, quiet ride, surprisingly good cornering
Weaknesses:
kicks up little gravel too easily, not enough traction when it gets really rough
Similar Products Used:
Tioga Psycho
Bike Setup:
'97 Trek 6500, Rock Shok Indy C
Bottom Line:
The pair of tiogas on my trek wore out pretty fast, so on a recommendation from a guy at my local bike shop who regularly races (and wins) I stuck these ritcheys on my bike. Mine came with blue sidewalls; with my red frame and white fork, I now have a truly patriotic bike. The first time out on paved roads near my home, I was surprised how quiet these tires ride on pavement in comparison to my tiogas. Cornering is also very good, but be careful not to get too crazy. Off-road, these tires are not in their element. On gravel, they kick up too much gravel at any speed. And on steep climbs on loose surfaces, the Ritcheys fight for traction. It doesn't really bother me much (I just put down more power!) but I imagine it would tick off a more seasoned rider. Overall, these tires are great for a trip with mixed trail and road riding and have decent grip and traction on both, but when the going gets rough, I miss those tiogas.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimbo
a Cross-Country Rider
from Alamogordo, NM Date Reviewed: May 6, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
A little lighter, faster and quieter
Weaknesses:
Very limited traction
Similar Products Used:
Mud Max
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper, Marzocchi Z2 Atom Bomb
Bottom Line:
What's the point with slick tires on MTN bikes? If you want to go faster become a roadie. I got sucked into buying one of these by media hype. After a few trail rides I realized what lack of knobs on the back tire does for you, no traction for climbing, cornering, or braking. If you like slamming on your brakes and sliding to a stop, this is the tread for you. Mine has about 3 months of use and now hangs in the garage as a wall ornament.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raorc
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sf Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: May 6, 1999
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Fast...Fast...Faster
Weaknesses:
-You have to plan your manuvers more carefully, -Anything that is excessivly loose will cause you to slide but if you know how to slide it's kinda fun.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing that is a Semi-Slick
Bike Setup:
Ritchey Softtail w/RS Judy SL
Bottom Line:
I you want to go fast then this is the tire for you. You must be really careful when you ride because if it starts to slide you have to carve the sides and balance your weight. Also, if you wanna go crazy on the downhills, think about getting a different tire because the first time I got these I was flying down hill,these gain speed fast down hill, and I came onto a sharp turn I forgot about. I stabed the brakes and ended up having to do a nice slide, not so nice actually, with my right leg planted. I also almost pissed in my pants. It's a cross-country tire for hardpack so use it as that. Oh, it makes a killer city/commuter tire, great for jumping curbs and an ocassional dog. Have a good ride:-)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jasper King
a Racer
from Lakes, Nevada Date Reviewed: April 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Wild Toad at Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
rollin, rollin, rollin- rolls fast
Weaknesses:
waffle pattern wears fast and suck in sharpies into the dimples where you will eventually flat
Similar Products Used:
slicks, worn out TeamMaster/Controls are good and handle everything better except for smooth terrain
Bike Setup:
Moots YBB-rear traction is supreme with almost any tire
Bottom Line:
Ah, you got tricked, this is a race tire; of course it feels fast, but it will surprise you in a panic brake and in skittish corners. 5 stars for racing at highest, death defying speeds.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jumper
a Cross-Country Rider
from NC Date Reviewed: April 10, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Rolls real nice
Weaknesses:
No grip anywhere, braking is TERRIBLE, and all the rubber thingies on the tire are gone in a month
Similar Products Used:
Continental Cross-Country, WTB VelociRaptor
Bike Setup:
GT Backwoods Frame(only thing original on bike is frame), Marzocchi Bomber Z2, Race Face Cranks
Bottom Line:
Crappy tire that should never touch a trail. Good for streets because it rolls real fast but this isn't a mountain biking tire! i dont know what ritchey was thinking when they invented slicks.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KC
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: April 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
84th St
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Fast and Smooth
Weaknesses:
Flats
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F900
Bottom Line:
I don't know if I'm the only one with this problem but since I switched from the Speedmax to the Alpha and Omega Speedmax I've flatted the rear 4 out of the last six times I have ridden. Other than that the tires a great.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken Pillik
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bordentown, N.J. Date Reviewed: April 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mercer Park
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Fast, great traction
Weaknesses:
None yet
Bike Setup:
Cannondale CAAD/ Manitou SX/ full XT
Bottom Line:
Just recieved the Alpha and Omega Speedmax through mail order. I have been out twice in ideal conditions for testing - mud, hardpack, and steep climbs. Typical of the conditions I'll see all year. At this point I'm very happy with my choice, and they have perfomed better than I expected.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rudy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Denton Tx Date Reviewed: March 28, 1999
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Low roling resistence on hardpack and asphalt. Good traction on most surfaces Low weight low tread wear if you treat them right a year and a half and 300+ miles and i'm thinking about geting another pair because the sidewalls are starting to look worn.
Weaknesses:
Deep wet mud Deep dry sand Deep Gravel Sandstone
Bike Setup:
Marin, Team Marin full XT Quadra 21R Speed Max on front and rear 60-90 psi
Bottom Line:
I bought these tires when i started using my bike to commute to school and i noticed that my knobs were starting to wear out from the asphalt. I fill them up pretty high when riding on pavement (about 90psi) and put them down to 60 for trails. Any less than 60 and they start to feal squishy to me. When i dint bother switching back to my knobies for the trail i was amazed at the traction i had. Turning in mud and sand/gravel is tricky and climbing in either sucks the energy out of me. In every thing else they are excellent. Wen climbing hills though, they make it a little more important that you keep weight on the rear tire. They have a small diamond tread down the center with knobs on the sides. The knobs only touch the ground on turns and loose stuff and they do a great job. There is some drift on turns and fast bumpy down hill but it is easily controlled and you get used to it. Leaning a bit more on the turns helps gets rid of the drift.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ScottO
a Cross-Country Rider
from St. Petersburg, Florida Date Reviewed: March 26, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mo' Bridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Rules on dry, technical rooty trails. Maintains rolling speed through crunchy sections.
Weaknesses:
Need to be careful in the sand, but does better than you would think.
Similar Products Used:
Mythos XC Mythos Slick
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F2000 with XTR and Fatty 70 Headshok
Bottom Line:
Great tire in mixed hard and loose conditions with some roots here and there. Almost as good as 1.5 slicks for road riding. excellent for what it was designed for.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Magnus
a Cross-Country Rider
from Motala,Sweden Date Reviewed: March 24, 1999
Favorite Trail:
-
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Speed, silent, good traction on most surfaces
Weaknesses:
Not so good on mud, wet leaves and similar surfaces
Bike Setup:
Parkpre Pro825 Full LX with RS Indy XC 3-5 kg pressure
Bottom Line:
I'm happy with it, although I was a bit skeptical at first. It has hardly any knobbies, how the hell can that work? It works fine, very fast, durable and good traction. Can be hairy when turning in the wet though. I think you need to attack to get the best of it. If you don't ride in bottomless mud and sand/snow this would be an ideal all-round tire for MTB. I'm switching my rear tire to Mud-Max now, the snow is melting and the ground is really soft, I need more traction.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada Date Reviewed: March 19, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
- Super fast - You'll beat all of your friends - Lower vibration on pavement
Weaknesses:
- Try blasting a corner from pavement onto a loose trail at 20 mph, you'll know right away
Similar Products Used:
Just IRC mythos XC
Bike Setup:
KHS team frame, 98 Judy XC w/booster
Bottom Line:
It is a very fast tire and rolls smoothly, but it does not grip as well as a knobby on loose dirt, but on hardpack I can't tell the difference, so if you can accept the inevitable fact that it will grip less on some trails, it is otherwise an excellent tire
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
The Black King
a Cross-Country Rider
from New York City Date Reviewed: March 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountain Reservation
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Improved acceleration Maintains speed Good cornering traits
The Ritchey SpeedMax K is a great tire for hardpack/pavement/asphalt. Immediately noticeable is the improved acceleration (climbing, on the flats and descending). The SpeedMax also maintains speed better than a full knobby. However, the SpeedMax's braking characteristics (even on pavement) leave something to be desired. The SpeedMax requires that you slow down gradually. In the event of a panic stop, you are better off with a full knobby (I recommend the WTB TyrannoRaptors). If you do most of your riding on hardpack/pavement/asphalt, you would be hard-pressed to find a better tire than the SpeedMax. For all other types of terrain, go with a full knobby. 'Nuff said.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike brown
a racer
from San francisco Date Reviewed: January 29, 1999
Bottom Line:
you riders who dis this tire are nincompoops! THEY'RE DESIGNED FOR RACING AND FOR RIDING ON HARDPACKED SURFACES, YOU MORONS! kinda like where i live, i northern california. it ain't loamy up here, rocky in a few places, but hey, i tried these tires all summer long and they worked ok for me. as soon as it started raining, i took the off a put the velociraptors back on. what's the big deal? if you adapt your riding style, you can climb and corner just as well with speedmaxes as you can with any other good tire. (note that i'm also referring to the later generation tire with the larger file pattern in the centre) what does it TAKE to get some of you folks out there to UNDERSTAND that some of the equipmet in our glorious sport is designed to be CONDITION SPECIFIC???
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
erwin soriano
a cross-country rider
from cagayan de oro city, philippines Date Reviewed: January 25, 1999
Bottom Line:
I ve been using these tires for a while now... they are good cross country tires...light and sticks to the ground well... climbs well on hard pack trails but they dont last long they easily get bald and lose traction. But I'd still buy them when mine needs to be changed. they are expensive at 1800 pesos or $45 but they are worth it... the best with our trails here.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kin-Yat Lo
a cross-country rider
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: December 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
This Ritchey is so, so SCHHHHHWWWWWWWWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEETTTTTTTT. This is my first semi-slick tyre having worn out two rears. Having cost me $45 (US$28) naturally expect it to last about 2000km. Well, it hasn't and I'm not so happy (it's at about 600km and looks to need replacing - I've already bought a Conti Goliath). This tyre to SOOOOOOOOO quiet on road and little rolling resistance compared to my old Tioga Psychos. Off-road they're also brilliant. There's excellent grip and traction (better than the knobby Psychos). The only regret is the wear rate (well I suppose a few locked rear brakes didn't quite help it) and unfortunately it gets the flick as a rear tyre. Still, I'm goin' out to buy another one for the front . . .
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
allen cone
a cross-country rider
from kennewick, wa Date Reviewed: December 11, 1998
Bottom Line:
not a bad tire for the pavement or an occasional hard pack single track. But, do not buy them if you main taste is dirt or you will taste a lot of dirt. Ps. they also get flats very easily. Suck up the decrease in rolling resistence and and stick to a knobby.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chip
a racer
from Oregon Date Reviewed: October 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
These are great tires for hardpack and even mud. I've used them for 6 months and see very little wear. Ride them with lots of air (40+lbs) or they will pinch flat. They can be spooky on loose downhills as the front seems to slide more than other slicks. This may be because the side knobs don't extend beyond the sidewalls.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Massimo
a racer
from Rome,Italy Date Reviewed: October 5, 1998
Bottom Line:
its fantastic, I tried (for the first time) Ritchey Speed Max (only Front) in the wet wet wet race and very muddy, but i hadn' t got any problem . It is very fast, the mud isn't a problem for it. The race is finished very well for me, I arrived 3rd. Thank you Tom
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Guido Kerssens
a cross-country rider
from the Netherlands Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998
Bottom Line:
This review is for the Alfa and Omega Speedmax. These tires will even work in mud conditions. They are very quick but a bit slippery in the corners when the conditions are wet. They start working if riding a bit agressive. This sounds strange but for me and my mates these things work in this wet country. Climing performance really amazed me. Only when riden in very loose dirt like in the dunes things start coming at their end. My favourite combination is a full knobby on the front (Z-max) with a Semi-slick on the rear. And beleave me I used to be a very full knobby lover (Manitou Fang, Pyranha pro, Panaracer Smoke).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Igor
a cross-country rider
from Slovakia Date Reviewed: September 20, 1998
Bottom Line:
May be you don´t know imagine the situation with beautiful, sunshine day, which brings you to the hills and at this moment start rain, conditions changes immediately. Hardpack clay roads during a few minutes changes in slimy. IMHO such situation is a part of serious cross country. I´ve bought these cause of listening about their speed properties. I do not downhill, I´ve mentioned about it only as a part of serious cross country. And as for skidding: this is typical for our housing estate specialists, but not for me... You´re thrue that these was designet for hardpack and aphalt... so I give them beyond 1 chillie! :-)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex OLeary
a cross-country rider
from Florida Date Reviewed: September 19, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires are awesome for what they are intended to do. Apparently there are a lot of jar heads below who think a low tread tire was intended for climbing, downhilling, and mud! Oh yeah.....you're a bunch of Pro's!! Speedmax was designed for cross country hardpack and asphalt. For these two areas they are the best. They are nothing more than thick-walled slicks with a few knobbies on the edges to keep you upright when you turn. If you are going to be doing climbing, downhilling, or any other extreme offroad riding, get an extreme offroad tire for the condition! You wouldn't put a super-swamper truck tire on a corvette would you. As for the morons who are wearing the tires out, lay off the breaks. This tire wasn't designed for your worthless skidding enjoyment.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Igor
a cross-country rider
from slovakia Date Reviewed: September 15, 1998
Bottom Line:
Well, these tires are realy very fast, but functional only in good conditions, in wet conditions these suck.I live in places where the weather changes very fastly. 6 times I´ve impaled the tires , always by downhill on stony mountain roads. And now, I´ve to retire cause the tires are after 1500 km of off-road biking totaly bared (especially rear). Don´t by them for serious cross-country! The tires are very good for rigid pitch roads, XC only for not very serious terrain with dry conditions. For downhill these are absolutly unfunctional.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Funkdubulous
a cross-country rider
from Virginia Date Reviewed: September 10, 1998
Bottom Line:
I dont have much to say for these tires except ROCK ON!! They are so fast that I am riding at least 2 gears lower on these on hardpack and street. You only loose traction on wet grass uphill and very loose dirt/gravel. I love these tires. I recomend them to anyone who wants to go faster. Believe me... they whoop the whoop off of the WTB Primal Raptors. These have just about the same traction and weigh over a pound less than the Primal Raptors. $30 a piece, you cant beat em.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
vic the butcher
a cross-country rider
from bronx, ny usa Date Reviewed: August 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
this mutha---- at some bike shop told me that these will make me go fast. he was right. i just kept catching flats. i thought i bought kevlar. i like the tires because of the speed but i am not a babysitter. sorry ritchey i got vittoria evolution this time. i still will give them a decent rating though. they are great on hard pack, slightly loose, and pavement. i did not like them for everyday riding because they could not handle all weather.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a cross-country rider
from Brooklyn, NY Date Reviewed: August 4, 1998
Bottom Line:
Just got a new pair of Ritchey SpeedMax 1.9 Alpha/Omega Kevlar Blue Walls. I’d worn out a pair of the original SpeedMax and like their semi-slick ride, but felt a definate need for more BITE when riding out in the Sticks. The Alpha/Omegas do it!On pavement, they’re noticably slower than the original SpeedMax (and hum a bit). Doing technical riding, whether climbing or downhilling, there’s no comparison. The Alpha/Omegas STICK to the trail or rocks or roots and whatever else I’ve ridden through. All those little ridges in the tread make it feel a bit like smearing when rock climbing. They are fast and secure when cornering through loose stuff. I ride them @ 60psi.GREAT tires! 5 FAT Chilis.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from cross-country rider Date Reviewed: August 2, 1998
Bottom Line:
Recently retired a pair of original SpeedMax K 2.0 tires after a year (2500 miles±). I LOVE the SPEED of these things on and off-road. They require an adjustment of approach and pedalling technique. It’s a bit more cerebral, I guess. Once I got used to it, they were quite good.I kept them inflated at around 60 psi. This allowed them to cut through loose stuff and MUD (yes mud) to the bottom and let those side knobs dig in. A lot of spinning is necessary to get through loose stuff. Forget sand! They are surprisingly good in mud and clean out instantly, too! Riding toward the SIDES of ruts, etc., is required for the side knobs to bite. Once I learned to do that, there was little that I couldn’t manage. Surprising for a slick and they ARE slick.On-road and hard pack these things are impressively fast and SILENT. They work great on rollers, too. Roadies would often comment at my speed doing training laps. It’s the tires!These are an excellent tire as long as you take into account their limitations for more technical off-road riding. For mixed riding, particularly if you ride alot on pavement, they’re great. If had 2 wheelsets, the SpeedMax would be a permanent fixture on one of them!4 Chilis
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a racer
from Chicago, Illinois Date Reviewed: July 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
Can't say enough good things about these tires. The single largest bang-for-buck improvement in overall speed & performance I've found. Don't know about the wear issue, but don't really mind. A couple of races will make them worth the money. Minor adjustments to cornering are required (lean harder, visualize those little side knobs chewing into the hardpack, and be prepared to drift quite a bit from apex to exit,) and braking grip is iffy at times. The instant acceleration and good flat-out performance make these trade-offs worth seem insignificant. I should note that it's been pretty dry around here lately, so I've ridden mostly hardpack, but the talc-like dust makes things a little slippery. These are not for the faint of heart, but way cool if you're willing to let it hang out a bit.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kingjap
a weekend warrior
from Yokohama, Japan Date Reviewed: July 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
It is like the beauty and the beast. Bought them about three months ago and used them on anything from road to mud and serious downhill. The perform great under all conditions BUT they wear out fast. With less than 200 Km on them they are ready for retirement. No more knobes and even though they have never gone flat they are not worth the money!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david renton
a
from cross-country rider Date Reviewed: July 9, 1998
Bottom Line:
look down the page and see jims review on the NEW version of the speedmax tires, just installed a new kevlar pair of these tires, and cant add much to his review except to support it entirely. They ARE better than the old ones, they are still fast, and they ARE a kind of allround tire for anything than really wet conditions. There is a slightly more expensive WCS version of this tire, and if anyone has tried them let us know how they go. If you buy them make sure you dont confuse which is the front and the rear! the difference is NOT obvious!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mountain Man
a racer
from Colorado Date Reviewed: July 9, 1998
Bottom Line:
Truly a sad point for ritchey. Usually makers of good stuff. I have to say though, that these tires suck. I boutght these about 2 weeks ago, and they are already completley slick. not just semi-slicks, total slicks except for the knobs on the side. to add insult to injury they corner like shit , climb like crap, and perform wothlessly on anything other than pavement.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a weekend warrior
from Columbus, Ohio Date Reviewed: May 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
I really liked these tires when I bought them in the spring of last year. Since I use my bike for commuting in addition to trails (not ready yet to buy two sets of wheels), I wanted to ditch my knobbies for something that would roll better on pavement.Now that there's about 1200 miles on them, I'm not so sure. Rolling over dirt and gravel patches gives me an insecure, sketcy feeling that I didn't experience last year when these tires were new. The little diamond pattern has worn down to a smooth surface on both tires.After looking at the other semi-slick reviews, I think I'm going to try the Michelin WG Sprints this year.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Casey
a cross-country rider
from orlando,fl Date Reviewed: May 8, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires SUCK! Another crappy over-priced product from Ritchey. I have less than 400 miles on these tires and they're already worn out. My brother has the Michelin WildGripper Sprints (the green slick ones), and after 1000 miles of sport level racing, they're JUST beginning to show wear!!! He bought me one for christmas, and you can't even tell I've ridden it yet, and it has over 200 miles on it, both on&off road. I'll be replacing the crappy Ritchey with the Michelin.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jim
a cross-country rider
from philadelphia Date Reviewed: May 8, 1998
Bottom Line:
This is for the newer Speedmax Alpa and Omega tires, something more of a semi-slick.I rode the regular Speedmax last year (see review way below) and got addicted to the speed of the tires on hardpack and especially the 6 mile road ride to the trails, I even did a few races on them. During the winter I switched to Mythos XC knobbies for wet-leave season, I dig those tires for a full knobbie but I wanted to go back to slicks for the summer so I got the Alpha and Omega.These are a much more rideable tire. Not as fast as the Speedmax slick, but faster than a full knobbie. All the bumps and ridges on the center of the tread allow you to climb and brake well in muddier and more technical conditions. Cornering is as good as the Mythos XC, in fact you can pretty much ride these as a regular knobbie except if you're climbing in a lot of mud or loose sand/gravel.I'd recommend these for anyone who's willing to sacrifice a little handling in super-technical terrain for a faster overall ride. That's pretty much what slicks are about.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jibofo
a racer
from az Date Reviewed: January 25, 1998
Bottom Line:
xcellent rear for cross country racing in dry conditions. a bit too sketchy for the front. never slips on the climbs. corners well. very unforgiving to heavy handed braking. all these people complaining about them on downhills should learn how to use their brakes. finesse, not just jamming them on. They wear quickly, but out here in the desert all tires get chewed up. definately my favorite as a rear cross country racing tire.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a weekend warrior
from MI Date Reviewed: January 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
Whew, these pups are fast! I have a c-dale super v and an f 1000 hardtail. I tried the maxes on the super v and found them to be scary fast and handle quite well. Then I wrecked a few times...hard! I was riding mostly hardpack during the wrecks. I realized that the extra speed created by these tires translate into spectacular faceplants. You dont realize how much extra speed you are carrying until you enter a corner...then the tire breaks loose and once that happens it is hard to recover due to the lack of knobs. If you ride with a smooth style (fast on the relatively straight stuff, scrub some speed for corners, lean the tire into the turn to allow the knobs to bite, and stick to mostly hardpack) then you may benefit . I will also try a knobbie front (Mythos 2.1) with the max rear: I think it will be a good combo. I noticed that I averaged about 10 less seconds less per mile on a 14 mile trail in my area...that translated to over 2 minutes faster for the course!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sverre petlund
a cross-country rider
from oslo, norway Date Reviewed: December 9, 1997
Bottom Line:
the ritchey speed max tire is supposed to roll better than the usual MTB tires and they shaved off time on my regular test track. on dry packed gravel road they are superb, but wait till a day of rain and you quickly loose the comfort like bambi on ice. pump them up to the max and get that narrow fast no-friction ride-feeling. unfortunetely they wear out easily, and are history already after this summer riding (lasted 2000 km though).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Santa Fe Date Reviewed: November 20, 1997
Bottom Line:
This review is for the new SpeedMax Alpha and Omega; Awesome!, Ritchey's fixed the sketchy characteristics that've plagued the original SpeedMax in loose, technical terrain. I rode the 1.9s WCS on one of our most demanding local epics a few weeks ago and was amazed at how well they performed. They still are a climbers dream but they hold on as well as anything I've ever ridden, even in steep, off camber loose stuff they are right there with you and never let you down. I was able to stay right with my buddies on fast descents on my hardtail, they were riding suspension with full size knobbies, so no complaints here. These tires are grippy as hell! Try them or wish you did. They will be Ritchey's secret weapon along with the SID in the World Cup series, you can count on it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drevil
a cross-country rider
from Date Reviewed: November 20, 1997
Bottom Line:
After putting in a season on these tires, all I have to say is that these LICK NUGGETS! They're horrible and wish i just saved my money and ignored the hype. Like other people said, going downhill is sketchy and if the top layer is loose at all, you can kiss your traction bye-bye! I have relegated these tires to campus cruisers, because I stay mostly on the street, just where these tires should stay also.p.s. They wear quickly!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
crusty dusty
a weekend warrior
from canada Date Reviewed: November 19, 1997
Bottom Line:
BIATCHThat's the only word I can use that fully describes how much kack these tires suck. The only people that should be thinking about bying these tires are x-roadies. It'll make 'em feel at home. Climbing fast is about all these tires are good for, and even that's sketchy.I was pretty happy with 'em during the first part of my ride, because they really do climb faster than any other tire I've had. But once the trail crests or goes downhill... hang on! Because they could kill you! I was actually afraid for my life going downhill on these phuckers!So unless all your rides are uphill. And I mean ONLY uphill. Stay away from this shity rubber.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank Krueger
a cross-country rider
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: October 21, 1997
Bottom Line:
Bought a set of them for my second pair of wheels. Very fast tires in packed conditions but pretty scary once it gets sandy. For these conditions I use a Piranha Pro on my front wheel and the Speedmax on my rear wheel - no problems with climbing at all and it is really fast riding!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ZoomBoy
a cross-country rider
from Ma Date Reviewed: October 17, 1997
Bottom Line:
I had to try these out. I bought the regular kevlar bead for $35 ea. I didn't want to spend $100 for tires that might not work. I have to say that for most conditions these tires are great. I rode them all summer on mostly packed loamy conditions and they rocked. I felt like I could take on Frishy himself! I got at least two gears out of these. We had a dry summer so how they handle mud is a question mark. They were scary however in extreme technical sections. These tires are not too good for loose or wet rock and wet rooty trails. Climbing wasn't a problem most of the time. I will use these as race tires mostly or in the summer when it's mostly dry.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CHRIS G
a weekend warrior
from SAN FRANCISCO Date Reviewed: October 12, 1997
Bottom Line:
DEFINITELY ROLLS FASTER THAN THE DOUBLEFIGHTER ON HARDPACK AND PAVEMENT, WITH LITTLE TO NO DIFFERENCE IN PERFORMANCE ON THE LOOSE, TECHNICAL STUFF...AM NOW RUNNING AN ALPHABITE UP FRONT... I HAVE A FAMILY TO TAKE CARE OF AND CAN'T AFFORD ANY WASHOUTS UP THERE...OVERALL A GREAT TIRE TO RUN FRONT AND REAR IF YOU RIDE JUST PAVEMENT AND HARDPACK...WOULDNT RECOMMEND RUNNING IT UP FRONT IF YOU ARE GOING TO RUN INTO LOOSE, ROCKY, RUTTY, ROOTY TRAILS...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Simon
a
from Taiwan Date Reviewed: October 1, 1997
Bottom Line:
Good rolling, no braking, a bit heavy, would prefer a 1.9 size, slippery in the wet, good grip when new on hard surface, wears fast, the black wall cheaper version is of a very poor quality (out of round). Please go to Conti or Michelin for better quality and performances.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a
from cross-country rider Date Reviewed: September 19, 1997
Bottom Line:
I reviewed these tires some time ago and was running them both front and rear, that has changed, I couldn't get used to the uninspiring lack of control in loose descents, (downright scary at times) but I found I was addicted to the low rolling resistance and sprintablity. I found that by running the Speed Max in back and in my case a good old Z- Max up front I could have the best of both worlds. I still have the fast, light feeling but I've got confidence on those loose steep descents. Its awesome. I do find that I've got to keep the Speed Max inflated pretty high because they seem a bit more prone to pinch flatting than other tires I've used. Definitely consider the Speed Max on the rear!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Albert
a cross-country rider
from Lennoxville, Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: September 16, 1997
Bottom Line:
Love the blue sidewalls, hate the scars on my leg from the time that the bike just slid sideways on me. That's what I get from using them in the worst possible conditions for these tires, gravel in the rain. Well, I guess you live and learn eh?!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fabrizio
a racer
from Alba, ITALY Date Reviewed: September 8, 1997
Bottom Line:
These tires are really great. I use a speedmax on the rear paired with a dart up front. I found that the knobless center tread allows for a more precise cornering and more acceleration, and of course, a big energy saving. The grip is fantastic everywhere except in gravel and mud. If the wheater holds, why use any other tire?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sorin Srbu
a cross-country rider
from Uppsala/Sweden Date Reviewed: September 6, 1997
Bottom Line:
Excellent on asphalt/onroad/pavement/dry stone. Completely lethal on wet conditions! Beware! Can't count the times I've crashed on (wet) slippery roots and ( wet) stones 'cause I lost the grip...Anyway, I have it in the rear only since the traction is quite ok in most conditions, except for the ones mentioned above, and on sand, or asphalt with some sand/gravel on as it quite often is in sweden...The low friction on hard surfaces is cool, but the disadvantage is that they get worn out quite quick. I bought a pair of them cheap (250SEK each) and one is almost worn out after only about 3 months...Another word of caution, don't skid with these tires. They wear out before you even have time to say Get new tires?... If used as they're intended; on dry surfaces they're quite good.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Booty
a weekend warrior
from Morgan City, LA Date Reviewed: August 26, 1997
Bottom Line:
I bought the regular kevlar tires at $20 a piece. Not bad seeing how they retail for around $30 each. I put them on yesterday and tested them today. I am very impressed with the speed and very low coefficiant of sliding friction. I ride on a bridge every now and then to get some uphill excercise. Normally when I come down I have to peddle at some point on the flatspot on the off-ramp. With the speedmax I started at the top and didn't have to peddle until i was off the bridge. Amazing. I ride mostly hardpack so these tires are ideal for me. Haven't tested them off-road but will post later. So far so good.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott L.
a racer
from Golden, CO Date Reviewed: August 12, 1997
Bottom Line:
I have mixed feelings about these. The are fast and smooth on hardpack and pavement, but boy watch out on thin layers of loose sand like you find on a hard packed dirt road! You'll be on your face faster than you can say 'ouch' in a tight corner. Also, DO NOT skid the rear tire. (Hard to not skid with these). I absolutely tore the tread off of a few spots in a skid on some slickrock. They were then completely bald in those spots.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jano Janoyan
a weekend warrior
from Naples, FL Date Reviewed: August 7, 1997
Bottom Line:
Great tire, especially if you ride mostly on hardpack, pavement, etc. Not too back in the wet, doesn't muck up light a real knobby. We'll see how long they last, I only have 2-3 rides on these so far, (maybe 20-30 miles) & they seem to be holding up great!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david renton
a
from weekend warrior Date Reviewed: July 2, 1997
Bottom Line:
theres quite a lot of reviews on this one already, so I wont do any boring repetitions. I wanted a temporary change of tyre from Ritchey Tom Slicks which are real street tyres and fast and nimble, but are very unforgiving off the asphalt. I wanted to be able to bomb around the streets, then hop the odd curb and hit a reasonable trail every now and then, a bit of everything if you get my drift. After a week of such activity and the the worst Henry Coe State Park can hand out, I have to say they do make a case for a general purpose tyre, and I havent fallen off since I got them! All I can say they are fun so try them, and ride carefully.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Freddy Edgemon
a racer
from Tennessee Date Reviewed: June 28, 1997
Bottom Line:
These Speeds rule! I have used them just on smooth terrain and rock terrain. They do good on both. And fast! I would just use them for racing, but the guy down bellow says they wear down too fast. I guess they due when they hav no tread. There not made for a long life. That's why there race tires!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeffrey Masse
a cross-country rider
from Chicopee Ma Date Reviewed: June 28, 1997
Bottom Line:
I bought these tires 3 months ago. They worked well but they already wore out down to almost nothing. The little rib that crosses the center of the tires is mostly gone and I have to buy new tires again. If you ride on single track with plenty of pine needles the ride is as slippery as a currupt politian. I used to love them but the longevity is hard to ignore.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a weekend warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: May 13, 1997
Bottom Line:
I got these tires to use in colorado, I was anxious and tried them out the other day. On hartdpack they are everything they say, fast and smooth. On roots they grip great because they have more friction to the roots. In runny mud they are great. You go into the puddle with some speed and just peddle through. The tires are skinny enough to cut down to the bottom for grip. When you get out of the mud the tires are clean and thus they grip and role like normal. They do not pack mud up on the frame (great feature). On slime they work OK but nothing works good then. Sand performance is bad but not because of the tread but because of the size, to skinny. How about a true 2.35 size for bigger rider and sanddy stuff. The 2.0 is actually about 1.8. I love them alot, god value at $29.99 for a kevlar bead that weighs 585 grams.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KevinK
a cross-country rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: May 10, 1997
Bottom Line:
I just bought these tires after reading the review in Mountain Bike Action magazine. These tires really do make you faster on hardpack, but be careful on anything loose,especially corners. Climbing with these is no problem, even ehen standing. You just have to use your techniques(pulling back on the bars with every pedal stroke). These tires are great on pavement also. I did ride them after it rained out so the trail was slick. The tires do slide around when it is wet, so you have to be weary. Overall I would recommend these tires to everyone that rides hardpack or even some moderate loose trails!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve, again
a cross-country rider
from ME Date Reviewed: May 3, 1997
Bottom Line:
I forgot to say: I use Speedmax on the back only and a real knobby in front. The back tire give you most of your rolling resistance and the front tire most braking power. SO far so good.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Maine Date Reviewed: April 25, 1997
Bottom Line:
I was surprised! I've been riding off road for over ten years and have always thought the knobbier the better. But these tires really do work. Sure thet have some limiations. I've not gotten good grip on dirt covered rock-face. However, in most other conditions they are passable. The great thing is that you will immediately feel much less rolling resistance and find yourself going faster in all but the most technical situations. Whether or not you use them depends (as tires seem to) on taste. I like the faster feel, others may bemoan the last of radical traction in technical tight-spots. A middle ground might consider it a wash - what you loose in traction you gain in speed and fast feel. I like these tires and will use them for a while.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jason sager
a racer
from louisiana Date Reviewed: April 21, 1997
Bottom Line:
be warry of sticking them hard in corners if the ground is anything but hard and smooth. better to run a front tire with some type of bite
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen Sutton
a cross-country rider
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: April 11, 1997
Bottom Line:
These are not for everyone! Personally I prefer knobs, but I must admit I'm impressed these tires. They do not, and I mean DO NOT have the same amount of traction of knoby tires, so don't try to do anything remotely technical, rocky, or any ride that has steep descents or loose soil. Where these tires excel is hard pack where the tire contact patch is large. Climbing is quite tricky, you MUST remain seated and be is good enough shape to use higher gears. It's impossible to climb using granny gears with these tires as they slip.Cornering is also different. It's better to do all your breaking before you enter the turn, then set up to slide through, tail out and foot down. They don't have enough grip to hold you through at speed, so don't try it unless you're covered in motor cycle leathers. Street performance is almost like a true slick, but not in cornering. They also wear VERY fast. Expect to get about two months MAX from a rear tire and twice that for the front. With a lot of street riding, maybe only a month or so of life from a rear tire.Overall, they ARE faster on the right surface and I can ride a gear higher on the flats. Again these are not for everyone. I'd recommend a set if you live in an area with a lot of hard pack. If not, stay with knobies.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Thorsness
a cross-country rider
from Laramie, Wyoming Date Reviewed: March 31, 1997
Bottom Line:
These tires do roll fast. In addition to the lack of knobs in the center of the tire, they have a very round profile. If you want to get from point A to point B faster, there is not another $60 you can spend that will give as big a return. I have suffered no loss of control and they appear as stable as anything on gravel and broken rock. The only place I think they would have problem is in mud -- knobs can help to shed mud. My set of tires weighed in at 572 and 585 grams (kevlar bead but not the WCS model). Mountain bikers are going to find the same thing out about tread design that road riders discovered about a dozen years ago -- squirmy tread and knobs slow you down and can interfere with handling. Pretty obvious, but we'll continue to see lots of big honking treads and knobs 'cause it's _so_ macho.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a racer
from Philadelphia Date Reviewed: March 24, 1997
Bottom Line:
I can't believe these tires work- they seem to defy all wisdom of mountain bike tires. I've been riding these for a few weeks on the local trails in eastern PA and I'm amazed at how they handle. The front tire is very predictable- smooth transition to the side knobs and I haven't unexpectedly slid out yet. The rear tire climbs well even on stone and technical trails with rock ledges and roots. When the rear tire starts to slip, it doesn't totally break loose, giving you the opportunity to slightly shift your weight back to regain traction.I wouldn't suggest this as the ONLY tire for your bike. It won't perform well in lots of mud or really loose dirt, but right now my local trails are perfectly hard-packed and these tires rip. You noticably ride one gear higher on the flats. I intend to race on this tire if the trail conditions hold up.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Santa Fe,NM Date Reviewed: March 10, 1997
Bottom Line:
These tires are fast as hell! they're smooth, quiet and super responsive on pavement and hardpack. I've got mine inflated to around 50 lbs and find that even on fairly steep, rocky pitches these tires hang onsurprisingly well. I'm seeing speeds faster than ever before on sections I have riden extensively with other Ritchey WCS tires and WTB velociraptors. They deliver what they claim and demonstrate another approach to going fast. They're not the tire for all conditions but for hardpack and sand situations they are impressive.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a cross-country rider
from Holland Date Reviewed: February 20, 1997
Bottom Line:
I really like this tires. Lately I've been doing a lot of tarmac riding, so I tought the speedmax was worth a try. They're really fast. Cornering is great too. You can even ride mud. I think they would be perfect as a front tyre in any type of terrain. The only minus is the weigt. About 680 Grams for a kevlar tyre ( not the WCS ), but they make up for that. Perfect!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johnny Thunder
a racer
from Oro Valley, Arizona Date Reviewed: February 14, 1997
Bottom Line:
I had to admit, I had some reservations about using these bald tires especially in the sandy, rocky terrain of the southwest. Would they hold their line in a turn, would they wear too quickly, would they skid unpredictably on downhills. But I went ahead and shelled out my cash for a set (they worked well for Susan and Frisky in Atlanta, right?). After two races on them, I can say there is no reason to fear these tires. They are really an unfair advantage--extremely fast and predictable with as much cornering grip as any other premium tire. This season may see alot of racers going bald.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Caleb Oconnell
a racer
from Wiscasset Date Reviewed: November 30, 1996
Bottom Line:
ooohhh babay, these tires are da bomb,I'm serious, you have to under stand that the bald tires of any sort are mush better for riding in a fast race type senario. I wouldn't recomend them in deep sand or deep mud, but soft and tacky, these are the best, you can feel the speed almost. Not bad if you want to go fast, oooohhh baby.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Monkeyboy
a cross-country rider
from Santa Fe, NM Date Reviewed: November 2, 1996
Bottom Line:
I have some worn out velocirapters and z-max's I would be happy to sell the public with nearly the exact same treads. They are also real light now that they're all worn. Step right up...Just $39.00 for Kevlar!!! Nuff Said.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trip
a racer
from Anchorage Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996
Bottom Line:
When your trail are nice dry, and pretty hard, these wheels, are smooth! I geuss that they are called baldies because the top is not knobby. They have the same side knobs as the Alphas and Omegas, but the center line has a little texture and low rising, arcing bars for extra digging action. Put them on, and you can tell that they are fast. Super low rolling resistance, and super smooth on or off road. Kevlar beaded and foldable, light, and just plain smooth.
Overall Rating:
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