The deep aggressive knobs provide great wet condition control. The new Stick-E slow rebound compound grips like flypaper! The CAP PLY casing allows you to run these tires at an ultra low pressure without the fear of pinch flats. 780g
Submitted by
KAHAIKAPU
a Weekend Warrior
from Atoo'i Date Reviewed: July 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Ebay seller
Strengths:
Grips like Static
Weaknesses:
rolling resistance
Similar Products Used:
High Rollers,BIG KAHUNAS
Bike Setup:
Kona Dawg Deluxe 08
Bottom Line:
Great Tire
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MTBJong
a Weekend Warrior
from Logan, UT Date Reviewed: July 3, 2009
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
This tire really shines on the DH. Lots of Grip. Great Braking. Good side hill tire. Big volume. Stable and Predictable in tech challenging terrain. Seem to be lasting pretty well.
Weaknesses:
Not for racing. Slow rolling.
Similar Products Used:
Lots.
Bike Setup:
07 Stumpjumper Expert w/ Pike and Easton AM Havocs.
Bottom Line:
Review is for 2.35" Sticky (front) and DTC(rear). The Nev is a tire that I keep coming back to. I ride single track Multi-use FS trails with big climbs, big descents and lost of canyon side hilling on typically rugged loose trail surface with a variety of technical obstacles and infrequent maintenance. I really never know what is around the next bend becuase the trails can change so much in just a few weeks depending on weather and use. I like a tire that is confident in uncertain conditions.
I ride them setup diy homebrew tubeless.
The front tire has been moded, removing every other transition knob. This opens the tread up making it a bit more predictable in loose stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Defjeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Rocklin, CA Date Reviewed: June 28, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Downieville
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
universalcycles
Strengths:
Fast and grippy
Weaknesses:
Tread is starting to wear out. (Due to me riding a lot on the cement)
Similar Products Used:
Stock specialized rubber
Bike Setup:
Stumpy FSR Expert with mods
Bottom Line:
These tires are awesome in the dirt. Great traction while climbing
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
amrgb
a Weekend Warrior
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: June 26, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
This is for a 2.35 DTC.
Grips well in the back, reasonably priced, and easily available.
Weaknesses:
SLOW. It's like dragging a boat anchor. Side knobs are noodles, bending easily and washing out without recovery or warning.
Bike Setup:
Trek Remedy
Bottom Line:
With the price they ask us for tires these days, I'm trying to wear these Nevegals (2.35 DTC) that came stock with my Remedy. Instead, I'm paying with my own body.
This tire would be a good rear tire, if not for its huge rolling resistance. It's a good exercise though, but it's frustrating to try to get up to speed on the flats and mild climbs.
As a front tire, it is terrible in my opinion. It's not that they don't grip well while cornering. The problem is that when they let go, they rarely grab again, and don't give any warning whatsoever. You can rail the same corner at seemingly the same speeds tens of times, and then one time out the blue you find yourself eating dirt. It's difficult to trust in a tire that doesn't give you any feedback.
I think part of the problem is the ridiculously soft side knobs, that bend very easily. You can literally deform them with your fingers. When you lean the bike on hard surfaces, these knobs just bend and let got.
My opinion: lots of hype for a slow and unpredictable tire. Hardly recommendable as a rear or front.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
surf4peac
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco, USA Date Reviewed: June 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Many
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Grippy in soft dirt.
Weaknesses:
Very high rolling resistance.
Bottom Line:
If you want to get a workout EVERY time you ride, get these by all means. They work fine in spite of the very high rolling resistance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe K
a Downhiller
from St. Albert AB, Canada Date Reviewed: June 19, 2009
Favorite Trail:
T-Line, Chuten range
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Cheap. Fast accelerating.
Weaknesses:
Slow, heavy picks stuff up, doesnt grip well, DTC compound is a wee bit faster, wears out quickly, sidewalls shred.
Similar Products Used:
A bare rim.
Bike Setup:
08 Giant reign x2, TBC stepdown pedals, TBC stem
Bottom Line:
All around crappy tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sandhgill
a Weekend Warrior
from phoenix, az Date Reviewed: June 18, 2009
The least durable tire that I have ever seen. I bought a pair for my Fisher based on MTBR and other reviews. I had 7 rides complete and two tires failed because of sidewall cuts. Would never buy again. Bought a new bike (the Trance which came w/ the same tires). As of yeterday, I completed 3 rides on the new bike (which I like a lot). I had another failure due to sidewall cut. These failures occured on three different trails...thumper, estella, and white tanks. These tires may be OK in other areas of the country, but cannot handle the rocks and desert of arizona. Best tires I have ridden here are by far the IRC trailbears...they actually wear out after a 700 miles or so.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sashax
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: June 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Giant Salamander
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Raffle
Strengths:
Good traction. Free (for me, anyway).
Weaknesses:
Pinch-flat prone. Slowish.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Exiwolf, WTB Prowler
Bike Setup:
Steel hardtail.
Bottom Line:
I won one of these at a post-race raffle. I had heard a lot about this tire and was excited to try it. I switched bikes at the same time I switched to this tire, so I didn't really realize the additional rolling resistance the tire provided.
The first race I rode on the tire, I got my first DFL. My first long ride with it, I pinch-flatted four times. I left it on over the winter, with little use and no problems. My first race this year? two pinch flats in 4 laps of Boggs mountain. I was done with the tire. I swapped it out for a WTB Exiwolf, and Holy Moly! what a difference. Not only have I been pinch-flat free since, but I can feel the fastererness.
I guess there are people who have good luck with this tire, but I am not one of them. It has good straight line traction, but I don't feel like there's a lot else to recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seamus
a Weekend Warrior
from Winchester, UK Date Reviewed: June 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
One with no one in front of me ;o)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Grip, grip, grip
Weaknesses:
Heavy
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC, Panaracer Trailblaster
Bike Setup:
Giant Trance Advanced 1 - stock setup. SRAM/Race Face/Hayes Stroker Trail/Mavic X317 on DT Swiss/Nevgal Tomac DTC Front, Nevegal Stick-E rear, Stans (OK this bit's not stock)
Bottom Line:
When the going gets tough ... these tyres are amazing. I run them at about 30psi and they run just fine everywhere, but where they really shine is on slippery, wet, rocky climbs when they are truly amazing. I've cycled past loads of better riders pushing their bikes simply because they had no grip. I don't know where it comes from but it's there in spades. And they're just fine in the dry too.
The confidence these tyres give you on rocky and rooty UK trails is what it's all about. True they are heavy - but even though I'm planning to ride solo 24hrs in a couple of weeks time there's no way I'd put another tyre on - even though it means saving as much as a pound or more in weight. Having said that I might just try the lite version ;o)
The stans works really well too. They're a b****rd to fit though. Don't even think about trying with just a track pump, but with a CO2 inflator they go on just fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bazza 14
a Downhiller
from Australia Date Reviewed: June 1, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
these tyres are da shiz
they corner well, good for slides
even muddy tracks
Weaknesses:
flick up lots of crud from the trail
to be expected with such a good tread pattern
heavy 1.4 kgs
Similar Products Used:
larsen tt
minions
hans ventures
Bike Setup:
marz 66
roco shock
nevegals f and r
Bottom Line:
best tyre around
expensive but worth the dough
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thejimlab
a Cross Country Rider
from Swansea, MA USA Date Reviewed: May 28, 2009
Favorite Trail:
the locals
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
EP
Strengths:
Grip, grip and more grip. Workwell in just about any condition. Sidewalls seem pretty stout as I run them at a lower pressure than other tires I've ridden without any problems.
Weaknesses:
Rolling resistance, holy crap. I was amazed at how hard these were to push when I first got them. It's ok, you get used to it, or stronger because of it.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Eskar, IRC Backcountry, many many others Conti's, Panaracer's, more
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Truth, Psylo SL, Avid discs, XT
Bottom Line:
These tires are freaking great. I find myself pushing a little harder on turns that I knew I had reached max velocity on my old tires. They just grip! Once you find the ideal PSI to run them at, they grip even better, I have mine at about 35psi right now. They climb great because they don't slip out that often, the same can be said for braking. Also, they work well in all conditions. I ride in New England where it's often muddy and sloppy and rooty and rocky and these tires work excellent here. The large lugs and knobs clear out well. They grip well in the dry too, they're just a little sqirmy on the really hard stuff due to the tall knobs. They only bad thing about them is the rolling resistance but I have become used to it so these are getting 5 chilli's around. Buy them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tj90
a Weekend Warrior
from oceanside, ca Date Reviewed: May 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
anywhere
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
beyond bikes
Strengths:
Great traction in the rocky trails of socal. Recommended by beyond bikes - good $ and good feedback from riders.
Weaknesses:
Im using the 2.1 UST version. The back tire seems to wear quickly. They are probably 1/2 tread after 2-3 months of riding.
Similar Products Used:
various
Bike Setup:
XC FS
Bottom Line:
My first UST tires were fast rollers (pythons, etc). THese tires worked fine in norcal. When I moved to socal where there is no shortage of loose rocks, I quickly realized that I needed more traction. Im now a big tread block convert. Sure the nevegals are slower rollers than something like a python, but IMO a worthy tradeoff. The ability to climb more efficiently over loose, corner in sand or bomb down a rock garden is well worth it. I probably never go back to small tread blocks unless Im racing on a dirt road...\
So the only disappointment is how quickly the rears wear. The UST version doesnt have the longer lasting rubber and it shows. THe center tread blocks in the center are worn down to the center depressions already. I probably have 200 miles on them?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
flash3k
a Weekend Warrior
from putnam ny Date Reviewed: May 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
ninham mt.
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
various online sites
Strengths:
grip on wet east coast sinle track, rocks roots and logs. never flatted, run at 33-35 psi.
Weaknesses:
runs a bit slow, but wiling to sacrifice for traction, dont use them on pavement
Similar Products Used:
wtb weirwolfs, conti mountain king.
Bike Setup:
cannondale rize 4 (2 months ago) stock except for tires
Bottom Line:
ran the contis for one month on dry trails, first time out in wet conditions was slipping on everything, switched out to the kendas. next ride in similair conditions, had all the grip i needed. also handles well on fast flowing downhills, very predictable and lets you know when you are at your limit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
2crank
a Cross Country Rider
from Kernersville, North Carolina, United States Date Reviewed: May 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Reedy Fork
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Performance bike
Strengths:
Excellent cornering and grip even in mud
Weaknesses:
Rolling resistance and THIN WALLS
Similar Products Used:
Kenda K-rad and Karma
Bike Setup:
Haro Flightline Expert
Bottom Line:
They are great for giving confidence in corners, and going up hills I almost never had to worry about wheel slip even when torquing hard. However, in a year-and-a-half prior to using these, I had only 1 flat tire. Since using these I have had 9 flats in 6 months. Granted, a few of those could be "coincidence" and would have happened anyway, but not 9 (and yes, I have been riding the same trails as usual). It seems the walls are thinner than other tires as well as the knobs being spaced out allows area for thorns and whatnot to penetrate easier. This can be a great product for a novice biker as it can help build skill in the turns and climbs, but just be sure you are comfortable changing a tube on the trail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adjunkie
a Downhiller
from keystone, co Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good grip in Rocky Mountains, Longevity- I rode these all last season, and am still on them this season, tough (40psi/dh casing), huuuge- look like moto tires, very confidence inspiring
Weaknesses:
lotta rolling resistance, but that also means allota traction
Similar Products Used:
minion, intense 50, high roller, spec chunder
Bike Setup:
08/09 demo 8ii, fox 40, dhx 5.0, xo, code caliper w/ ultimate lever, NEVEGAL 2.7 front and rear
Bottom Line:
I really like these tires, but at 2.7 they're kinda huge for racing, so i will probably get something smaller for races and keep these for day to day shredding.
to the guy who posted below that can't turn: that sounds like a personal problem. Don't blame the tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zfeldman
a Weekend Warrior
from Arkansas Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
Pretty good at climbing when run tubeless. Sidewalls held up much better than expected.
Weaknesses:
Don't corner too great. Easily rip off the outside lugs.
Bottom Line:
Okay while they last, but lugs won't stay on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
oldracerjim
a Cross Country Rider
from SoCal Date Reviewed: April 28, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Excellent traction in most conditions
Weaknesses:
Pedal like lead
Similar Products Used:
Probably over a dozen different tires from all the popular manufacturers.
Bike Setup:
Turner Burner, XT, X9
Bottom Line:
If traction is all you care about, these will work very well for you. But if you ride cross country with a lot of climbing, you will need hydraulic rams for legs as these take a huge amount of energy to pedal. Even though I ride a lot and am in excellent shape, there is still a limit to how long my energy will last. Leaving a ride early, or being absolutely spent when arriving back at the truck is not my idea of mountain biking enjoyment. Yet, that is exactly my experience with these tires. No other tire that I have ever ridden has drained me like these do. The gal at my LBS told me they were not fast tires and I should have believed her instead of the hype from the magazines. They will now only be on my bike if I have absolutely no other choice. I have ridden many heavier tires than these that rolled much better. What a disappointment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frs1661
a Cross Country Rider
from Rochester NY Date Reviewed: April 25, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This review is for the 2.1" Nevegal
Very grippy in many conditions; mud, loose over hardpack, root rocks etc.
Weaknesses:
Knobs squirm a bit on hardpack and pavement. High rolling resistance. HEAVY, especailly for a 2.1
Similar Products Used:
Conti Mountain king, IRC Mythos XC, Notos XC
Bike Setup:
Blur XC
Bottom Line:
A good all around tire for those not concerned with weight and rolling resistance. They are confidence inspiring, even in the tight sandy corners of my local trail system. However, a hefty price is paid in weight and rolling resistance. If you'd like something a little more lightweight/efficient look at the Conti Mountain kings. They grip nearly as well at 3/4 the weight and seem to roll much better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David9999999
a Weekend Warrior
from Wilton, CT Date Reviewed: April 19, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Wilton Town Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Strengths:
Grip like mad...
Weaknesses:
Rolling. Get strong legs
Bottom Line:
Grip VERY well, they roll pretty horribly though. Seem to be wearing well. If you're not racing, try 'em, they work well for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bounds
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: April 19, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anything "the man" hasn't pansy-fied yet
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came equipped with b
Strengths:
Great on downhills (you'll be thinking "this isn't even fair -- my skills are going to deteriorate on this tire, but it will never show"), carve well, grippy on climbs. Great training tire for racers -- like running in hiking boots, you'll FLY when you get some reasonable treads beneath you.
Weaknesses:
Heavy, SLOOOOOOWWW (outrageous rolling resistance compared to any tire I've tried in this size range) , susceptible to sidewall damage.
Similar Products Used:
Many different Geax, IRC and WTB offerings.
Bike Setup:
Nomad '09, Monarch shock, Lyrik fork, X.9 AM build w/ DT Swiss wheels. Note: THis rating is for desert riding: hardscrabble shale and decomp granite, some gravel/sand in washes, and plants that hurt you worse than rocks.
Bottom Line:
Thumbs up to the guys at Kenda for their skill at marketing this tire as an all-mountain unit. Thumbs down to the bike manufacturers who bought the hype. This is a GREAT Freeride tire, don't get me wrong. If your energy input on your rides is 90% gravity-provided or more -- don't hesitate, and buybuybuy. This tire loses too much energy on anything level, and climbs of any length are much harder than they need to be, although they hook up like velcro. Any true all-mountain use profile is WAY outside of this tire's envelope.
All - Mountain use (this is a desert riding review): two chilis (includes upgrades for cornering and hookiness)
Free-Ride use: 4-5 chilis
Kenda's self delusion about this tire's applicable use profile: two chilis
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thedude
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio Date Reviewed: April 2, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$24.00
Strengths:
Very strong at low psi (running at 30 psi)
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Wtb raptors, irc's, panaracers
Bike Setup:
01 Gary Fisher Big Sur
Bottom Line:
Worth every penny!! After reading a LOT of reviews on several awesome tires, the kendas ROCK! I got the dtc so not sure how the stick-es work. No slipping on up hill and perfect traction on soft trial. Just an AWESOME tire. Running a 2.1 rear and a panaracer 2.25 cinder in front. Totally worth the money!!!! Buy it!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mitch7
a Weekend Warrior
from Marlborough,New Zealand Date Reviewed: March 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Waka,Whites Bay Loop
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
traction in the wet,stable on cornering (I'm on the heavier side)large volume carcass (2.35s).Great trail tyre all year round.
Weaknesses:
None that i can think of..not a DH/FR tyre...if you wanna go hard-out down hill on dry hard-hard over loose get some High Rollers or Minions (Or Combo)
Similar Products Used:
WTB Weirwolves (Great summer tyre) WTB Timberwolfs (Super Traction in winter,just to heavy though)Kenda Blue Groove..High Roller F and Minion R for recent Gravity events..
Love these tyres...always preferred the DTC model as they are lighter and have not noticed improvement with Stick-E on roots.
Just to piss me off though, the NZ Distributor (Sheppard Industries)has decided not to import the DTCs this year...(recession,what recession??) ..will see if I can get Blue Grooves in DTC instead.
Great trail tyre AAA+++
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jlm0906
a Cross Country Rider
from Simpsonville, South Carolina, USA Date Reviewed: March 25, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anything at Issaqueena
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Private eBay Seller
Strengths:
Good grip, rolls well on hardpack, 2.1 size is about right for XC use, looks great on the bike.
Weaknesses:
I haven´t noticed anything yet.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones AC, WTB Velociraptor,
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
After reading multiple reviews on this tire and others, I had to give them a try. I would buy them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dorcrycrystal
a Cross Country Rider
from las vegas, nv Date Reviewed: March 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
bootleg canyon trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
all mountain cyclery
Strengths:
this is for the 2.35 nevegal,great climbing tire, corners on dry dirt great at low psi, no pinch flats,hooks up in loose gravel
Weaknesses:
rolling resistance, but you have to sacrifice somewhere
cannondale rize 4 stock w/ nevegal 2.35 front and rear
Bottom Line:
these tires hook up at a low psi, I run the front at around 30 and rear at 40, great on the dry stuff here in vegas, it's the most predictable tire ive ridden out here so far, great tire , plus they got that beefy look to them, sweeeeet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Natedogz
a Cross Country Rider
from NorCal Date Reviewed: March 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
singletrack
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Natomas Bike Shop
Strengths:
This review is for the 26x2.35" Stick-E compound version of the Kenda Nevegal.
Outstanding traction everywhere!!! They saved me from a couple potentially nasty crashes due to their outstanding traction in all conditions! One time while riding a damp rocky and off-camber section of trail, I was going too fast and hit a protruding rock with my front tire, sending me airborne and throwing me off balance....somehow I stayed loose and went with it while steering and when I landed on the side-hill, I saw the front tire grab and save me from going over the edge! Several more hard hits before I could stop....had to take a break from my ride and remind myself to keep speed in check on unfamiliar trails!!!
Also great climbers in loose, loamy, rocky conditions (wet or dry) The added volume of the 2.35" width helped too. Good strong sidewalls, stood up to many scrapes and lots of bashing without any cuts or punctures.
Weaknesses:
SLooow rolling, definite increase in pedalling effort required to keep these moving. However, this was partly due to running these at 25-30 psi to help cushion rock gardens and roots on my hardtail bike during some really aggressive trail riding.
Similar Products Used:
None....stock tires on bike were Specialized Fast Trak 26x2.0".
Bike Setup:
2008 Specialized Rockhopper Disc
Bottom Line:
Thought about buying them for my 29er, but decided they're too heavy and not fast rolling enough for my intended use...so currently still using the stock 29x2.0" Specialized Fast Traks on this bike.
Great tires, but next time I would prolly buy the Dual Compound for slightly less weight and a little more rolling speed. These tires would rock on a DH or serious trail bike, but are a bit too heavy for most XC use. I would definitely buy them again for their intended use.
Value I'm giving them 5 chilis because they are pricey but worth it. Overall value 4 chilis since they could be a little faster rolling imo.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chewy
a Racer
from sedona az usa Date Reviewed: March 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
DAMIFINO
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Pretty lite for a bigger, aggressive looking tire.
Weaknesses:
VERY WEAK cornering traction. slow rolling, WEAK sidewalls. Do not set up easy for tubeless. All the bullsh*t hype.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis, contis, hutchinson, panaracer.
Bike Setup:
Bionicon Edison All mtn.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is these tires are really CRAP. Do NOT believe the hype. EVERYTHING about them is WEAK. When I first tried them I thought there was something wrong with my bike. The 1st turn I hit the bike just kept going straight. SCARY. In loose, dry conditions it feels like you are aquaplaning. No Pinche Bueno. I crashed pretty hard tring to pin it on these tires. they totally suck balls unless you like drifting all over the place. Maybe if you are a roadie fool & don't like pushing it & ride nice smooth, loamy trails they would be ok, but everything else is weak about these tires. Any kind of rocky, aggressive riding will punch holes right through the sidewalls before you can say HOLY CRAP, THESE TIRES SUCK!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grund
a Cross Country Rider
from Western MA Date Reviewed: February 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Earl's Trails
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
For New England, best all around tire I have used. Roots and rocks, wet or dry, fast enough rolling, high volume
Weaknesses:
Let's be honest. Not too many all-around tires can cope with thick mud. Nevegals gather mud as if it is statically charged. They also wear fast, and I am skeptical of their ability to cope with sharp rocks.
Similar Products Used:
Karma, Blue Groove, Fire XC Pro, Weirwolf, Exiwolf, Geax Sedona
Bike Setup:
4" trailbike and HT XC Racer
Bottom Line:
I have tried: 1.95 DTC, 2.1 Sticky, 2.35 sticky
Certainly not an XC racer, but it can be pressed into duty.
These tires will rip, and I get away with 28psi in the 2.35in on my 4" trailbike (140 lb rider). Great in New England. The best tire I have found for NE weather. Not bad in light snow, either.
I tried these in Ft. Collins, Colorado, and the sharp rocks did a number on a rear 2.1in DTC (rental bike). The mud is also different there, and I soon found myself with a 20 lb wheelset. Not sure what they use for tires out in the rockies...
Yeah, they wear quick, and this is region specific, but, 5 for value and 5 for rating. I have never gone faster or run lower PSI in my life.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thesmyerway
a Downhiller
from california Date Reviewed: January 28, 2009
Favorite Trail:
webb canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
in cycle
Strengths:
holds up well, no pinch flats, very strong grip around the tight switch backs
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
wtb timberwolf
Bottom Line:
this is a awesome tire...well worth the money
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mojavehanna
a Cross Country Rider
from Las Vegas, NV. USA Date Reviewed: January 27, 2009
I love these tires! I run them front and rear. I ride in terrain that varies from packed sandy, loose dry rocky, deep gravel, sharp rock. I use them with a Stans conversion kit without any problems. I like how these tires corner especially, very predicable slides. They also have great climbing traction and strong stable braking traction. I have also found these to be very durable for my "extreme" cross country riding style.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
oldirtydirt
a Weekend Warrior
from templeton, ca Date Reviewed: January 26, 2009
Favorite Trail:
rock garden
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
CBO
Strengths:
very fast easy rolling and capable of low pressures
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
intense tires,etc
Bike Setup:
santa cruz bullit, fox van36, deemax wheels, 5th element shock, diety bars and stem,2.7 front nevegal,2.5 rear nevegal running at 25psi
Bottom Line:
great fast tire cleans out well in the mud and i love the way i can run at 25psi with no pinch flats and i weigh 230lbs and ride on lots of big rocks and jump quiite a bit,all in all a great tire very happy with it....P III
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sjon
a Racer
from Riverside, CA Date Reviewed: January 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
SART
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Friend
Strengths:
Great roll resistance, running 28 psi with no pinich flats, long tread life, goes where you want it to. Very good climbing & braking bite.
Weaknesses:
Front tire used to wash out in turns mainly due to rider error
While it seemed that the tread on these tires wore very quickly, I just put my 1,100 miles on them in 4 months and the front still has 1/2 tread left. Just bought the 2.3 stick-e for the front and another 2.1 stick-e for the rear for racing. I will keep riding these used tires because there still in decent condition.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JohnnyGent
a Weekend Warrior
from Aliso Viejo, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: January 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Rock-It/Mathis/Meadows/Cholla/Lynx
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Pretty good in wet conditions.
Weaknesses:
SAND and SOUPY MUD! Going up rocks, no side traction, short tread life,
Bike Setup:
GT I-Drive 5 1.0 w/ Fox 32 Float R fork.
Bottom Line:
These tires are pretty good in wet conditions as long as the mud is no deeper then 3 inches. They did however clean themselves out pretty quick and were spotless after rolling through a puddle. These tires are dangerous in sand flat out! I whiped out on a simple turn at slow speed. They also do not have very good side traction and constantly loose traction on rocks. I have riden these tires for about 3 weeks now and the back tire is already down to about 3/4 of the tread. Not good wear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bikegeekjames
a Weekend Warrior
from SLC, UT United States Date Reviewed: December 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
The Crest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
Good at pretending to be a hardcore tire.
Weaknesses:
Worthless tires. I've never lost so much confidence on a bike in my life. Don't bother leaning into any sort of turn if you want to stay upright. I hadn't crashed for months, and one ride on my favorite trail, and i eat it five times, thanks to these tires. They wear down fast too.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis HighRoller 2.35" (preferred), Panaracer Fire FR 2.4" (a good, economical choice)
Bike Setup:
6" air sprung AM/FR
Bottom Line:
Don't bother with these tires. I put this in my Hutchinson category. If you ride any truely aggressive terrain, look at getting other tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wally
a Weekend Warrior
from brisbane aust Date Reviewed: December 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Daisy Hill Brisbane
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
Tom wallace Lytwyche
Strengths:
Exceptional cornering traction compared to my previous front tyre i.e. Specialized 'the captain' which I found washed out very easily on loose gravel on a hard base.
Weaknesses:
Will find out later I guess...
Similar Products Used:
Specialized the captain..Specialized "adrenaline"
Bike Setup:
Spec Stumpjumper 08 FSR..
Bottom Line:
Since owning the bike,, the steering felt very wishy washy (pardon the expression)...but with the Nevegals, it feels like a new bike... I would have put on a set of Spec 'adrenalines' if I could have found some... but the Nevegals are up to the task at present.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allrotor13b
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: November 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Can't tell ya
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Various
Strengths:
Long tread life, great all-around traction, very good casing strength
Weaknesses:
Traction drops off exponentially as conditions ebb
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Minion
Bike Setup:
All my bikes have these tires
Bottom Line:
Although they aren't the BEST at anything, they ARE very good at everything. The downhill casing/steel bead version (2.5") i have run at around 15psi and didn't even pinch-flat. i'm pretty content with these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sail718
a Cross Country Rider
from Bronx NY USA Date Reviewed: November 24, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Big Volume/ numbness to small squared off bumps
Weaknesses:
Poor grip on any thing but rocks, which any tire will stick to. No edges, rolls right off rounded profile spinning out, big blunt knobs dont penetrate leaves. Mud sticks to tire and does not shed well
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos2.1, Continental Vertical Pro 2.3 (awesome!)
Bike Setup:
2003 Specialized Enduro Avid BB7, XTR Shifters Fox FloatR, Nixon fork etc.
Not a light ride, built up as a playbike, bigger drops than my 05' Stumpjumper FSR 120
Bottom Line:
These tires are really big 2.35's. The big wide flat knobs dont bite into the trail. The front end pushes and exits wide and the rear end skids early. They feel very heavy and when they pack up with mud, in even mild conditions, they feel like a ton if they dont spin out altogether. These are slow rolling, high resistance tires that sound like a bigfoot truck on pavement. I dont think these tires even remotely live up to the hype. I ride in the NYC area Sprain, Blue Mountain, Grahm Hills etc. as well as in LA. - Sullivan Canyon, Pt. Mugu, Backbone Trail, Sycamore Canyon, Kenter Fire Road etc. I ride what we call Cross Stuntry, race cross country North East style and logged over 300 miles in the last few months in the Brentwood area. Long story short, I have no use for these tires in any of those conditions. They are big,heavy,slow,drifty, mud packers. Not what I'm looking for in a tire. I strongly suggest the Continentals in all of these conditions but warn that the rear tire wears very fast!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mrchris42
a Cross Country Rider
from Carnation, WA, USA Date Reviewed: November 20, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
BeyondBikes
Strengths:
Stick-E - really, really good on wet roots and rocks
DTC - still have cool KENDA logo on side
Weaknesses:
Stick-E - high rolling resistance, noisy on pavement.
DTC - Mediocre tire on wet rocks and roots, especially for the price.
Similar Products Used:
Smoke/Dart, Weirwolf
Bike Setup:
5" full Sus Titus Motolite
Bottom Line:
I'm using a Stick-E 2.3 up front and a 2.1 DTC rear
Stick-E - Best tire I've used in the winter here in the soggy, rooty, and round-rocky NW. These things stick to everything and hardly ever washout or slide. I'm using the non-tubeless with stans and no tubes. I'm convinced the Stick-E with low pressure can climb trees if my skills were up to it!
DTC - (only speaking of wet/slippery conditions) This thing slides on everything. This tire performs no better than the $12 Panaracer Smokes in these conditions. A mediocre tire at best in slippery conditions, although wear should be much better than the Stick-E version.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kendogz161
a Cross Country Rider
from bridgeport,ct Date Reviewed: November 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Alot of them
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$8.00
Purchased At:
e-bay
Strengths:
Works well tubeless,grip,price. You can always find them on e-bay.
Weaknesses:
I wouldn't think this tire is the best for hardpark terrain, but I have too little ride time on those type of trail to say anything.
Similar Products Used:
I'm always trying different tires, have use many tires.
Bike Setup:
Mavic xm819 with kenda tires. Cannondale Prophet 1000
Bottom Line:
I ride six hours a week of most of the year. I have the Nevegal dtc 2.1. There is nothing bad I could say about this tire. Rolls great, grip everything from wet roots to rock.
Bought mine used off e-bay with about 90% tread left on them and after about a year the are still holding up well. I think I could get another year out of them.
They seal easy with Stans just follow his video and get them time seal. I am using ust rim with no rim strips.
For any one riding in the north east get them, dtc or stick-e you will not disappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from washington Date Reviewed: November 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
schleyer
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
when conditions are good, these tires work very well.
Weaknesses:
i may be in the minority here, but this tire sucks when it gets wet. i cannot get these things to hook up at all, riding up or down.
Similar Products Used:
intense, maxxis, wtb
Bike Setup:
kona stinky deluxe, all mountained out
Bottom Line:
i got these towards the end of summer when the dirt was dry to tacky (in washington it depends on the weather that day) and it took me a few rides to get used to them. once i got used to them they were great. now that the rain is here most day these tires are not working as well. major confidence issues because they do not want to hook up. the rear spins quite a bit when climbing and the front has a tendency to wash out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
indoking
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: November 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Kachees
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Priepoint and ebay
Strengths:
Lives up to the hype, awesome wet weather all around tire in DTC and stick e.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
just about every tire out there
Bike Setup:
Heckler
Bottom Line:
These tires really do live up to the hype. I have the stick e 2.35's and DTC in 2.1 and 2.35. I highly recommend these for wet conditions or winter tires. It is amazing the kind of things I am getting away with riding the stick e tires. They really inspire a lot of confidence. By far the best tire I have ridden to date. If you ride in the pac NW or anyplace wet, don't mess around just get them!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erikober
a Downhiller
from FoCo, CO Date Reviewed: October 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
The A
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
STICK-E rubber is amazing on all types of terrain. The rolling resistance is minimal. Not too heavy.
Weaknesses:
They wear out somewhat quickly
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Holy Roller. IRC Kujo. WTB Weirwolf. etc.
Bike Setup:
Singlespeed hardtail with LOCO's, '08 Dirt Jumper 1, Hayes stroker Trails, LX cranks. DB stem with Truvativ bars
Bottom Line:
These are great tires that are very versatile. They are well worth the money and come in a variety of sizes for anything from XC to DH.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doglet
a Cross Country Rider
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
friendly bike shop,
Strengths:
I am using the standard Kenda Nevegal with Stans No Tubes on a Shimano rim. The tire needs a couple of days to seal the tire walls and become air tight but the result is a very light front tire set up with excellent grip in a wide range of conditions.
Weaknesses:
You need to keep checking the tire to make sure it is at the correct pressure but if you do that anyway it's not a problem especially if your trails have variable conditions or the weather changes.
Similar Products Used:
I am using this tire with a Larsen TT on the rear. Excellent braking and traction up hill. Very fast rolling.
Bike Setup:
Kona Four Supreme with a range of goodies, most importantly, a 4" gravity dropper seat post and avid juicy sevens. XT shifters are great. Specialised Body Geometry saddle is invaluable.
Bottom Line:
The Tubeless Nevegals are really great and far more heavy duty than the standard tires. However the grip on both are the same and the difference in weight is worth the initial set up. You fit the standard tire on a tubeless rim. The next day they will be flat. you pump them up again and spin them to get the stans no tubes fluid to seal all the holes in the carcass. And there are a good few holes to fill. After the second inflation the chances are the tire is sealed and it will work just like gold and weigh next to nothing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtneer
a Cross Country Rider
from WV Date Reviewed: October 7, 2008
Favorite Trail:
North Bend Lake Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with Cannondale
Strengths:
Fairly durable tire and corners well. Cleans itself in muddy conditions. Soft tire and I like the feel.
Weaknesses:
Loses traction in loose packed dirt/rocks. Very loud on hard surfaces and it does not wear well if ridden on pavement. I have also had three pinch flats when riding on rocky trails. I admittedly rid eon low pressures to get better traction. I just don't have the same results as other riders who have left reviews with regards to pinches.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F4 factory setup
Bottom Line:
When these wear out I will look at other tires but may end up purchasing them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cormactooze
a Weekend Warrior
from Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA Date Reviewed: October 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Pats Track
Strengths:
Great traction
Weaknesses:
Not best on road-but then it is a super wide tire at low presure
Bike Setup:
29er HardTail, Wide tires, 5" Fork-20mm thru axle, King Headset & Hubs, Stans Flow Rims, Stans Kit, SRAM X-0, Carbon Post & Bars, Disk Brakes
Bottom Line:
This is the best tire I have ever used, its got loads of traction and absorbs alot of shock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pinarlusu
a Cross Country Rider
from sydney Date Reviewed: October 1, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction Cycle
Strengths:
**This review is for the dual compound 2.35** Dual Compound, Grip, weight. Can run low psi without any pinch problem! Good rolling resistance on dry dirt track but not mud and sand.
Weaknesses:
The softer compound on the side is quite "soft", although it provide reasonable grip on corners, but when you put pressure on it, it compresses too much which gives a unpredictable side way shift. It also create a drag and turn the wheel itself a bit. This tire performs badly in sand! High speed turn need to be careful.
Similar Products Used:
maxxis high roller, minion 2.35 (if they have single ply)
Bike Setup:
mongoose otero elite 07 - rock shox revelation dual air, mavic crossride, rock shox monarch, easton monkey lite bar, shimano clipless pedal ...
Bottom Line:
This tire is ok but not perfect. Everything of it is reasonable like price, grip, resistance but great on weight. They provide a balance of performance and handling unlike other tires like high roller (great rolling resistance but bad corner grip). But it is still way better then other tires. It's definitely worth a try!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hawkens
a Cross Country Rider
from Snoqualmie, WA Date Reviewed: September 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Tokul East
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
Great over wet Roots, Mud and Snow. Poor Traction in loose dusty conditions.
Weaknesses:
paper thin sidewalls that tear very easily usually below or just above the rim line.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Rampages
Bike Setup:
07 FSR Stumpy
Bottom Line:
If your looking for a tire that does well in wet conditions this is a great tire. They are not a very durable tire though and I've yet to wear out a pair. The side wall usually tears well before the tire is worn out. I've gone through four Nevegals in 2years. This used to be my Winter tire of choice, but will be looking for a more durable tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mcmcderm
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago, IL/ Bloomington IN Date Reviewed: September 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Palos Hills
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
LBS Revolution Bike
Strengths:
Rolls pretty well for some big tires, amazing grip lets me corner as fast and hard as I can.
Weaknesses:
weight? although that isnt really a problem for me
little pricey
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager, WTB
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 70 with many goodies
Bottom Line:
Awesome tire...not for racing, but if you want to tear up the trails...go buy some.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gussyboy22
a Cross Country Rider
from geelong,victoria, Australia Date Reviewed: September 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
you yangs mountain trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
really good in loose pack dirt and hard pack. ok in the mud but you can get a bit of wheel spin if its thick.
Weaknesses:
wear out on the road quickly and are very loud.
Similar Products Used:
none.
Bike Setup:
2007 daimondback topanga sport.
Bottom Line:
love the tyres their great still using them and will buy new ones when these wear out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jkoehler
a Cross Country Rider
from Medina, OH Date Reviewed: September 7, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mohican State Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
In dry hardpack, a little damp this is the tire to have.
Weaknesses:
When its wet or muddy they are like racing slicks
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper
Bottom Line:
Look no tire does everything to the T. Some do more things better than others. I have had good luck with the Kendas. When its wet, whoa they get a little sketchy. I will continue to use them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jpine93
a Weekend Warrior
from Bay Area Date Reviewed: September 7, 2008
Favorite Trail:
My favorite trail doesn't exist...
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$33.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Excellent cornering, super predictable, good traction in all conditions.
Weaknesses:
Rollability, wear kinda fast.
Similar Products Used:
WTB MutanoRaptors
Bike Setup:
07 Stumpy FSR Comp Stock.
Bottom Line:
These tires kick a**!!!! By far the best tires i have ever used. I have complete confidence that I can rail a corner at full speed and not lose traction with these things. In the rare case I do lose traction, the tire starts to drift, creating a very predictable situation that I can ride out of with ease. The only complaint I have is they are fat and have an aggressive knob pattern, making them a bit slow through the flats and uphills. The confidence they give you on the downhill, though, complete wipes out the uphill woes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
james page
a Downhiller
from bracebridge Date Reviewed: August 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
psychosis
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
cafe
Strengths:
long lasting
Weaknesses:
harder rubber so they do not have as good of cornering
Similar Products Used:
minion
Bike Setup:
stock devinci wilson 2
Bottom Line:
you cannot beat the longevity these tires have to the cost of other tires. for my fron i took out every second set of inside knobs. corners a little tighter now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daveooo
a Weekend Warrior
from Glastonbury Date Reviewed: August 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Varies, on this bike Chaddar area dh trails (don't think they have a name as such!)
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Standard issue on co
Strengths:
Nice grip, agressive tred patteren
Weaknesses:
Weak side walls, pinch flat quite easily, to light for dh
Similar Products Used:
Tioga 2.3s (I've had them along time....), Maxxis (not sure which) 2.3's, Hutchinson Piranha
Bike Setup:
Giant Reign X1 Standard (except changed to single ring and E.thirteen bash ring/chain guide.
Bottom Line:
I would not have picked these of the shelf, but they were on the bike when I bought it. Have had several rides on them now, I have no prob with the grip they felt good and I had confidance in them even with low pressures but I would say they are to light to be specked on this style of bike (small dh rig basicaly - I supose that makes it a freeride of something....). 1st ride I had snake bit after doing a 6footish drop at speed on a short dh trail, and yesterday swinging in to the final roll in (over/off - sudenly steep section, call it what you will) I slit the side wall open on a loose branch sticking out of the undergrowth (was I pissed? It was the 1st dh run in 4 weeks since I've been moving house......) Repaired the tube and bojed (sp?) the side wall, It was enough to get me home but its now dead, dead, dead. Time for a new tyre.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jminn8086
a Cross Country Rider
from Auburn, California Date Reviewed: August 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
HITG - TRT
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
highly rated tire; availability & price
Weaknesses:
a little heavy ... sketchy in loose to hard pan conditions; rolling resistance - you feel them on extended climbs
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer, Specialized s-works; Continental; WTB
Bike Setup:
2.3 Kenda Nevegals on 2007 Santa Cruz Nomad
Bottom Line:
Like other posts here, I selected these tires based upon good reviews and MTB's recommendation. They also come standard on SC Nomads although I build mine so selected them thinking that they would be a "sure" thing.
I have mixed opinions about the tire. I ride in conditions that range from blue groove hardpack to loose decomposed granite. I've found myself caught off-guard many times running hot into a corner and having the tires break loose. On high speed downhill runs, it gets your attention! I do not believe these tires are ideal for my setup or conditions. Perhaps, they work well where there is better traction and tacky soil. They don't work well where you have loose or loose to hard conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtbman007
a Cross Country Rider
from Williams Bay, WI USA Date Reviewed: July 8, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
They corner well, not bad in sand
Weaknesses:
weak sidewalls, poor rolling, a little heavy, wear quickly
Similar Products Used:
Huthinson Piranha Air light 2.3, Panaracer Fire XC Pros 2.1, Ritchey Z-Max 1.9, IRC Mythos, WTB Velociraptors, many others
Bike Setup:
2008 S/C Heckler with keen neato parts
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 2.1 DTC version. These have got to be the most overrated tires of all time! They roll rather slow, they're not that great in wet conditions, and they're a bit on the heavy side for a 2.1. I used them for a little over three months on my old S/C Blur last year, and bought them mostly because of all the great reviews, particularly in MBA. At first I liked them, but after about a month, they were a bit sketchy as they wore more, so I took them off. When I bought a new wheelset for my new heckler, I thought I'd put them on again just to try out the wheelset. The tires were terribly out of round and uneven on both (wheels were perfect), and a torn sidewall on the rear. I had to throw them out; it makes me wonder how long I had them on the other bike like that. I have never spent more money on a set of tires and have never been more disappointed. Incidentally, when I got my new bike, I threw on a new set of Hutchinson Piranha Airlight 2.3's- they were less than half the price from Pricepoint.com, they grip great, and roll about the same. They're kind of heavy, but I can already tell that they won't disappoint me like the nevegals. Perhaps I got a bad set of tires, or maybe the Stick-E's are better, I don't know. However, there are a lot of better tires out there for less money. I give em one chili for value, and two overall since they did corner well when new, and did well in the sandy areas. I would not recommend these to anyone. I think the bottom line is that different tires work for some riders (and bikes) and not others, it all depends on where and how you ride, and what your expectations are for the product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
manwe
a Cross Country Rider
from Carrollton, TX Date Reviewed: July 6, 2008
Some of the people putting some of the info I do not understand. You pick the kind of tire for each kind of terrain. Although I do like the Panaracers as well as these they are great tires and here in Texas they are awesome. The Specialized 2bliss were crap but these are great tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kiwijames
a Racer
from Lafayette, CA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Joaquin Miller Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came standard issue
Strengths:
Round like rims. Folding bead. Black. Works wheel on smooth rolling XC trails.
Weaknesses:
Traction sucks. Definitely drifts more than other tires on high speed turns. Feels sketchy on off camber descents, when the terrain changes from smooth trails to cakey adobe, rock gardens, moist roots or DG...they aren't the best.
These lasted 3 training rides before they were permanently removed. Thinking it was my new bike set-up I swapped my wheels with my trainers XC717 with Pana XC Fire Pro 127TPIs....and it was all tire on the same trails. Have since swapped the rubber around and the Kendas are on the training/back-up bike guests use. It's probably a fine tire for smooth and consistent composition trails, but for the myriad of soil/trail make ups in Nor Cal, there are better tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nicholas
a Weekend Warrior
from wellington,New Zealand Date Reviewed: July 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
karapoti
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
pretty grippy not heavy
Weaknesses:
bad cornering
Similar Products Used:
maxis high roller
Bike Setup:
gt avalanche 2.0 08 model
Bottom Line:
grippy but bad on fast cornering would not recommend for down hill okay for the person who likes to go slow
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craptasticycle
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: June 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Sycamore
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Stock on Trance X2
Strengths:
Seems to work well in back
Weaknesses:
Ummm - cornering, giving feedback at the limits, sand
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Spider, Panaracer Fire
Bike Setup:
Stock trance x2
Bottom Line:
Me NO LIKEY in front. They wash out worse than any tire I've ever had in the sand. My old spider would tell you when they were losing grip, they might slide or push in the corners but the nevegals just let go with out warninng.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mck.brad
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakville, Ontarion, Canada Date Reviewed: June 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Merrit Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Internet: Blue Sky C
Strengths:
Excellent off-road traction.
Weaknesses:
Can't think of any.
Similar Products Used:
WTB tires
Bike Setup:
Giant Warp DS2: Upgraded to Avid BB7s, and 2.1 Nevegals.
Bottom Line:
After reading the tire review in Mountain Bike Action magazine 2 years ago, where the Stick-E Nevegals won 1st place, I decided to purchase a pair. I ultimately went for the DTC as these will tend to last longer (DTC = Dual Thead Compound. Stick-E rubber on the edge knobs and harder rubber in the centre. This gives better rolling resistance on hard pack trails or road).
Folding tires are my choice now. Being able to remove the Nevegals without using tools to change tubes or tires is amazing. (If you do any racing, this is key). After 2 years of mostly weekend warrior type riding, some commuting and one official race, these have held up. No problems at all.
Considering purchasing another set when these wear out.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!! You won't be sorry!! Kenda got it right with these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rad8
a Weekend Warrior
from Yellowknife, Canada Date Reviewed: June 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
north shore of frame lake
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
previous review said it best, it's a great all-round tire: good climbing, good grip in all conditions, CAP-ply casing is burly, Stick-E rubber grips, and I haven't had any flat issues.
Round profile and knob design means that it's in constant contact with the ground.
Weaknesses:
what makes it good all-round makes it not excellent for specific things, like hard cornering.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis high roller, minion DHf/DHr, mobster and mofo. WTB Weirwolf. Tioga Yellow Kirin.
This is for the Stick-E DH casing version, my wife has the folding version but I haven't ridden it yet. I used to live next to a lift-access park but moved and now only have super-technical, super-rocky trails to ride, which is still awesome.
Great all-round trail-riding tire. Sticks to rocks and firm and loose soil. Rolls faster than 3C Minion DHR but slower than a slightly worn 60a High Roller (slightly worn is the sweet spot). Climbs and brakes great in all conditions.
The round profile with two rows of side knobs result in constant contact with the ground, which makes it predictable and excellent for trail riding.
From my perspective the main weakness is hard cornering: I like to lean in, almost in line with the bike, not necessarily over the bike, and pump turns back and forth ski-mogul style. In this situation the nevegal doesn't have the real firm, rail-like feeling that a high roller has, or Weirwolf for that matter. It's been a few months of riding and with both the 26 X 2.35 and 24 X 2.5 nevegals on the rear, I'm still not totally comfortable with leaning over and pumping real hard. I guess I'm just a shoulder channel kind of rider, maybe I'll cut down the inner row of shoulder knobs...
Like the weirwolf, gravel sized material gives the nevegal trouble while cornering. Whereas the weirwolf has relatively small knobs, with the nevegal I think this is because of the twin sets of side knobs that preclude a big shoulder channel (my constant theme).
So, what makes it great and predictable for everything also makes it less than awesome for aggressive cornering. 5 chili's overall because overall it's awesome. 4 for value because even though they're generally not too expensive, I still need to keep my DH-specific tires handy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wvuMTBer
a Weekend Warrior
from West "by god" Virginia Date Reviewed: June 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
my pleasure trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good for everything. Not perfect for everything, you have to understand the difference.
Weaknesses:
read below
Similar Products Used:
too many
Bike Setup:
a hairy yeti
Bottom Line:
Reviews are always funny. You get to here people complain because most people who like the product don’t bother to tell people they like the product. Here is a list of complaints that I have read below and my answer to the posters.
The bead doesn’t seat well – this is more of a rim problem than a tire issue, ask anyone with multiple sets of rims and most will say that they work better on some than others. If a tire is really tight on a rim and doesn’t seat well try using thinner or skinnier rim tape.
They roll too slowly – tires are either fast with less traction or slow with more traction. Pick your poison. A super fast tire with gobs of traction is an oxymoron. Tires are designed for specific terrain if the Nevegal is to slow it doesn’t mean the tire sucks, it means it’s got lots of traction. You can’t have it both ways.
The sidewalls cut to easily or are to thin – how do you make a sidewall more resistant to cutting? You add more material or make it thicker. Following that line of logic it means the tire will be heavier. Then everyone on here would post “the tires are really heavy”. Buy a downhill that is constructed to withstand cuts or stop complaining.
They wear out to quickly – tires are made of rubber compounds that vary from soft to hard. Harder rubber compounds last longer but are less sticky, therefore sacrificing ride quality for durability. Softer rubber compounds are sticky and hook up well but wear out sooner, therefore sacrificing product life for performance. It’s a give and take that everyone will complain about one way or the other. You don’t have to buy sticky rubber compounds if you don’t want to.
They are too heavy – if it was any lighter, less material would be used to make the tire yielding thinner sidewalls and more cuts. Need I say more?
They pinch flat too easily – use a higher PSI. Tire construction has lees to do with pinch flats than most people think. Kenda could make the sidewall stiffer but then you would end up with a heavier tire. There is a really simple fix to pinch flatting, inflate your tires more!!!! We all hear stories of people running 30-35psi but this is greatly dependent on weight, terrain, bike setup, and riding style. If you weigh 200 pounds you probably shouldn’t run less than 40-45psi.
They puncture too easily – puncture protection is heavy and expensive. If you want tires that weigh more and cost more they are easy to find.
They don’t clear mud well – tires that clear mud well generally have larger spaces in between knobs to allow mud to fly off. Picture a tire with larger gaps between the knobs. Does it look like a tire that is fast? Mud shedding and rolling resistance go hand in hand.
Basically, this is a great tire. It works well and there is a reason it’s voted number one by magazines year after year. Also, Kenda’s warranty department handles all claims fairly and in a timely matter. I have returned a few tires for one reason or another with no problems. Also, I don’t work for Kenda but I do love their stuff. It’s frustrating to see people complain about things without seeing the big picture.
GET OFF THE INTERNET AND RIDE!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sangmatt
a Cross Country Rider
from Date Reviewed: June 5, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
they don't completely suck at anything, except for clearing mud
Weaknesses:
they suck at clearing mud; lethargic tire
Bike Setup:
Mojo
Bottom Line:
I'm not sure what the hype is about these tires, or why even high end bikes come with them stock. It's not that they are horrible, there just seem to be so many faster, lighter tires, or that have better traction and actually clear mud (at least for riding XC in SE Idaho).
Slow.
Did I mention they don't clear mud well?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian Perez
a Weekend Warrior
from Carolina, PR Date Reviewed: May 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Monagas
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
They came with the bike
Strengths:
Great looks. Good grip on dry or hardpacked terrain
Weaknesses:
They wear out way too fast. Slow rolling. They sometimes feel like they are flat.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight
Bottom Line:
For the price they should last longer. Road riding is minimal and I mostly ride on weekends only and already they show extensive wear. Depending on the weight of the rider you have to play with the psi to hit the sweet spot.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jd
a Cross Country Rider
from Pitttsburgh Date Reviewed: May 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Kenosha Pass
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
speedgoat
Strengths:
grip and traction for climbing, handles tacky, loose terrain well. soft DTC provides nice feel
Weaknesses:
expensive, high rolling resistance, a little unstable in fast corners on smooth or loose terrain due to large flexy outside knobs, and wear fast. worst of all: impossible to seat bead properly - tire has a lot of wobble.
racer-x, SRAM, Raceface, the Thompson usuals, Time ATAC, Stan's no-tubes rims, FOX, nokon cables, HOPE mono-mini and hubs
Bottom Line:
These tires look totally awesome and are very eye-catching. Everyone speaks highly of them but they are pricey, roll with a lot of resistance, feel much less stable than the Maxxis Larsen due to the large knobs, and I have yet to get the bead to seat properly - the front tire wobbles so much that at high speeds, the bike feels less stable. I called Speedgoat after dropping $90 for the pair to find out that they are hard to seat - you have to use soap on the bead - no luck!
The Larsens are the best tire I have ever ridden: on Stan's no-tubes rims, run them at 28-32psi and you'll ride over and climb anything more smoothly than the Nevegals. And in the mud, the Nevegals pack and carry a ton of mud. If you are skeptical, look elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J
a Cross Country Rider
from BC Date Reviewed: April 24, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Great traction in all conditions
Weaknesses:
A little heavy and slow
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Schwalbe.
Bottom Line:
Ran 2.1 Nevegal Stick-E converted to tubeless for over a year - no problems! Great traction in all conditions. Changed to something faster / lighter for the summer. Will go back to Nevegal for winter and wet.
works great when new or newer as long as youre not cornering hard, light, grips well in general xc conditions and noticeable difference when not pushing it
Weaknesses:
washes out when cornering hard or on loose/semi loose terrain...wears out FAST in hard pack/so cal conditions...noticed after about 4 months of 3-4 times a week riding and rear tire was pretty much worthless after 6 months. ran tire at 40 psi as anything less like 35-37 resulted in flats EVERY time. great if you dont mind spending $30-55 (to replace both) every 3-4 months. xc riders(roadies on dirt) this tire is for you
great if you dont mind flat/fast riding. climbs well. wears out FAST on hardpack/rock...great if you can replace them every 2-4 months...if you ride 1/2 times a week go for it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luke
a Weekend Warrior
from Tonbridge (Medway area) Date Reviewed: April 19, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Any!!!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike.
Strengths:
Extremely good traction on soft dirt that inhabits the medway area. Works well on a mixture of other terrain as well such as gravel and hardpack.
Weaknesses:
Poor lifespan! Used it for about 3 months now and the tread has noticably worn away (still get about 2 more months of of them though). Poor use on roads too.
Bike Setup:
Marin Rock Springs 08 Frame; XT hubs, Rockshox Pike (coil) fork, Fox float R shock.. in other words standered set up....
Bottom Line:
A good tyre if you want to blast about on without the worry of sliding off into a ditch/cliff face!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin carson
a Downhiller
from davis ca Date Reviewed: April 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Pacifica
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Brand new from friend
Strengths:
lasts long...
Weaknesses:
the traction isnt great for dh... especially hard over loose and the sidewalls are pretty weak
the nobs dont grip that well im much happier with minions
its an ok tire but im sure its more an all mountain tire... it doesnt have the traction you need for dh
so thats why im giving it a poor rating
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hydrogeek
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland, OR Date Reviewed: April 18, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
LBS Fat Tire Farm
Strengths:
Great grip, clears mud well, run low pressures
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
WTB Moto Raptor, IRC Mythos
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar XCR Expert
Bottom Line:
These tires are amazing. I have ridden them in mud, hardpack, and rock. They do well in everything. I have made muddy climbs that I could never have done before. They also corner well with large side knobs. They are a bit expensive but worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan R
a
from l Date Reviewed: April 18, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Bike Junkie :)
Strengths:
Great traction in a variety of conditions, Great cornering, Braking, and climbing, Very sticky tire that fits nice and snug to most wheel sets Light weight when considering tires
Weaknesses:
Wear time; these suckers wear out quick especially if you use he Stick-E compound! PUNCTURES!! If you ride thorny areas be prepared to be doing some tube changes, Can be a little pricy
Similar Products Used:
Too many to count but to name a few Maxxis, Panaracer, Hutchison, WTB, Intense, Specialized, Kenda, and Geax
Bike Setup:
06 Giant Reign 1, Custom built
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 2.3 tires. I posted a review for the 1.9 Stick-E model a few years back. Still a great tire and even though my bike has changed my thoughts on these tires hasn't. Very versatile tire and can handle numerous types of terrain out there. Still I have two gripes about them, the first off as sticky and grippy as the "Stick-E" compound is it wears out QUICK! If you ride a lot of hard pack or road don't get the Stick-E compound. Second and this is a major one, these tires love to pick up thorns!! It's the reason why I don't use em till mid season. Around here in the spring the thorns are all over the trails. By early summer they are not too bad but if it's thorny near you consider Stans System for these. Some of my friends have converted them and it worked great on these tires. Other than that they perform well and I give em great review. For the 2.3's a better casing to avoid simple thorns would make em perfect, hey that's what Maxxis Minions are for huh?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross Country Rider
from Logan, UT Date Reviewed: March 6, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$32.00
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Good grip tire. Feel it carve in on edge. The tire hooks up in just about all conditions, loose, hard pack, loose over hard, sand, soft dirt, rock. Clears mud well. Nice volume tire with a comfortable ride even on a hard tail. Still looks new after 3 months.
Weaknesses:
Don't roll really fast, but still roll better than cinders or weirwolfs.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Cinders, Weirwolf, Spesh Resolutions
Bottom Line:
Used the 2.1 as a rear tire for a few months so far. It really grips well on climbs and descents and has good lateral grip. Tends to carve rather than drift. Seems to do well in all conditions. Its a tire you can ride from early spring slop through the height of summer and into late fall since it seems to work on just about any condition.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Webster
a Cross Country Rider
from Diamond Bar, Ca, US Date Reviewed: February 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
none in particular
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
two wheeler dealer
Strengths:
Handles well at speed, durable on drops and over rocks, stable
Weaknesses:
wear quick on hard pack tire pressure will determine if you like the tire very slow rolling, dont plan on going fast on the flats with out putting in alot of effort
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Minion Panaracer XC pro
Bike Setup:
blur 4x, 08 xt shifters, rp23, nevegal up front, xc pro in back, 32 talas, ex721 laced to xt hubs, thomson seatpost and stem
Bottom Line:
if you're going down the hill the tire is awesome. If you ride xc and want a better cornering tire at speed and thats all you are looking for, this is not for you, its too slow everywhere else, try panaracer xc pro's for all around use or maybe the small block 8 for hard pack, the new maxxis monorail is very fast and corners well and handles technical stuff with ease but not dh or am tire
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carson
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: February 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Tecolote Canyon
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Arrowhead Cycles, Bishop, CA
Strengths:
Good traction, attractive tread pattern. Handles well in mud, sand, and everything in between.
Weaknesses:
LOTS of road noise, poor wear characteristics
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Blue Groove
Bike Setup:
Giant Yukon
Bottom Line:
As far as my experience goes, this is a decenttire, especially off-road. It is a little expensive for my uses (I usually use my bike for commuting and occasional hardtrack out behind my college, so I don't need anything fancy like the kevlar bead), but overall it performs well in a wide variety of terrain, especially sand and hardtrack. It's got big blocks on the edges that help with cornering and handling off-road - a definite plus. However, if you will be riding more on pavement than anything else, skip this one. It's a big, heavy tire with horrible road manners; lots of noise and a rough ride. Also, it wears quickly relative to the Kenda Blue Grooves I also use. Within 3 months of fairly hard riding the tires were darn near worn out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Racer
from Miami, Fl Date Reviewed: February 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
An excellent All-Conditions tire. Can run standard version Tubeless with Stans easily.
Weaknesses:
Rolling Resistance. Tire pressure makes or breaks your opinion of the tire. Could be cheaper.
Similar Products Used:
Blue Groove, Small Block 8, Bontrager Crap, IRC Serac
Bike Setup:
'07 Fuel ex7 on ZTR Olympic/Hope Pro II tubeless setup.
Bottom Line:
I'm running the 2.1 DTC version. I ride only XC. Mainly roots and rocks and some hardpack. THE most important thing with this tire for me is Tire pressure. I just recently put them back on after running SB8's for a few months. I'd never run them up front so I set them up at 32 PSI as I do with my SB8's. I was hating this tire for like 30 minutes of my ride. THey were bouncing me allll over the place on roots and rocks, especially on slow technical climbs, and weren't even grabbing well when I would lean hard. I was so frustrated. I started dropping the PSI and I could feel the traction increasing. So i kept dropping until I finally reached the point where I could it was like a totally different tire. Grabbing great on turns, solid traction on technical climbs, no slipping on roots. I didn't even have to go extremely low. 27 PSI is the sweet spot for me. I'm at 183lbs without riding gear. As for mud my only experience with them was in the rear and they were actually very nice. Seemed to really grab and get you out of the sticky stuff. It's been pretty dry lately so I don't have anything to say about them in the front with mud.
As for tubeless I've NEVER had a problem with it. After my initial Stans learning curve, it now takes me no longer to inflate them with a floor pump and Stans than it would with a tube. For you Stans users, here's a tip that might help. Forget what they say about putting the valve at the top. That's what makes it hard. Put the valve at the bottom, put the wheel on the floor and press down a bit so the tire flattens out a bit at the valve. Then pump fast a few times and it WILL catch. Any doubts I had of being able to do this at the trail are completely gone now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Blow
a Downhiller
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: January 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Shore, Whistler
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Lbs
Strengths:
Grip,ability to run extremely low pressure
Weaknesses:
rolling resistance, durability
Similar Products Used:
Wtb motoraptor, specialized, nokian
Bottom Line:
Excellent grip on the local trails which are usually wet, and filled with rock armoring,skinnies,roots etc.Also,when at whistler, the tire also preforms. Pinch-flat protection is top notch to say the least. Hitting rim hard multiple times a run and still no pinch flats is a miracle to me. Also durability and rolling resistance may be a problem for some, but for most using the 2.5 it shouldn't be an issue as it is unnoticeable when going down the trail. (for stick-e compound)I personally only notice the resistance on pavement. Great overall for freeriders, and dh.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fritz Lehr
a Cross Country Rider
from Raleigh Date Reviewed: January 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Beaver Dam
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bicycle
Strengths:
Decent traction but didn't blow me away, seems to work fine on the front or rear, decent weight for a 2.1
Weaknesses:
Rolls a little slow, durability and tire integrity, the only tire less durable are Michelins
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velocirapter, Specialized, Paracer Fire XC, Michelin Comp S (All tire are 2.1 since I tend to flat and damage rim with anything smaller)
These are for the KENDA Nevagal 2.1 Stick-E tires and I usually run 35-40 psi. These tires were not as great as I had hoped. I read the reveiws in MBA and they were close. I know the 1.95s won their shootout, but I can't ride 1.95s because of the damage I get to my rims and pinch flats, so I went with 2.1s. I don't think they grip any better than anything else and rolling resistance was a little more than expected. My biggest complaint was the fact that several of the side knobs sheared off the tire. I really didn't expect that at all. I have never had a tire do that. I have had extreme wear on the side knobs, but never lost so many so fast. In 6 months the tire was done and worthless for cornering since the about 30-40% of the knobs were gone. The only tire I had more issues with were Michelin tires with sidewalls ripping and tires blowing off the rim during hard cornering.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Antonio
a Weekend Warrior
from Madrid(Spain) Date Reviewed: December 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
It grip well in any condition (2.35 Stick-e) Lightweight
Weaknesses:
The sidewalls are very weak. Little resistant to pinch flats No version tubeless
Similar Products Used:
Sw Fat Albert 2.35
Bike Setup:
Norco Six One Marzocchi Z1 Light Eta Mavic 819 + Hope Bulp
Bottom Line:
2.35 Stick-e: God tire for "all mountain". Excelent grip in all terrain but the sidewall are very weak.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sylvain Gravel
a Weekend Warrior
from Montreal, Qc, Canada Date Reviewed: December 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
This tire does pretty well on hard pack, loose dirt and not-so-deep mud. Haven't had any pinch flats in a whole year of riding.
Weaknesses:
The problems come when you need some grip while climbing in muddy conditions. Simply going through a deep mud hole will get you stopped. The tires don't really clear mud well either. It requires a lot of speed for all the mud to go flying which isn't good when riding XC. Wear is desastrous.
Similar Products Used:
Mostly Maxxis (Larsen TT, Swampthing, Mofo DH)
Bike Setup:
'06 Norco Six One
Bottom Line:
These tires are often pretty good. In fact they hold up 80% of the time but when you get to those climbs where you really need the grip you will want other tires. If I compare these to the Swampthing's they fall really short of providing the grip in those crucial moments.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ivan
a Cross Country Rider
from singapore Date Reviewed: November 26, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Strengths:
grip- it grip well in any condition. i don't feel any difference between riding in wet and dry terrain. good if you live in countries which rain often making the trail muddy
Weaknesses:
duraility- wear out fast. this might be due to its high performance high rolling resistance- not good on pavement. its very draggy and slow. weight- abit on the heavier side. 620g for 26x2.1 but given its performance, this is not a big issue price- as it is not very durable, we will have to change it often. and being such a expensive tires, changing often is a pain.
Similar Products Used:
tioga factory XC, tioga extreme XC
Bike Setup:
GT avalanche. suntour XCR fork, deore and deore XT component.
Bottom Line:
if you are riding in muddy condition, this is it. i raced with it in a very muddy condtion. the tire and rim was inside the mud. i would say about 15cm deep. i did not fall. and right after the mud, its loose terrain and it still grip. if you are a weight weenie, this might be abit heavy but if you really need grip, the 100+g is worth it. i ride it on pavement too. not very good. slow and wear out even faster. overall a good tire. grippy, average weight, not too durable, pricey. (the price that i posted is for a pair of 26x2.1 , 55usd for a pair)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Cross Country Rider
from Chico Ca USA Date Reviewed: November 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came With Bike
Strengths:
Great grip around corners, pretty resistant to pinch flats, good for climbing. Handles dry rock great as well as any type of dry or damp dirt.
Weaknesses:
They wear fairly quickly from what Ive seen but its because they are a softer tire which gives them their stick on rocks etc. This coupled with the price to replace them is a bummer.
Bike Setup:
04 Kona Dawg Dee-lux - Vanilla 5in RLC in front, Float R 5in back, Azonic outlaw wheels, said tires.
Bottom Line:
My next set of tires will be another set of these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Cross Country Rider
from Chico Ca USA Date Reviewed: November 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came With Bike
Strengths:
Great grip around corners, pretty resistant to pinch flats, good for climbing. Handles dry rock great as well as any type of dry or damp dirt.
Weaknesses:
They wear fairly quickly from what Ive seen but its because they are a softer tire which gives them their stick on rocks etc. This coupled with the price to replace them is a bummer.
Bike Setup:
04 Kona Dawg Dee-lux - Vanilla 5in RLC in front, Float R 5in back, Azonic outlaw wheels, said tires.
Bottom Line:
I will replace the set of these tires i already have with the same tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Cross Country Rider
from Folsom, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
South Yuba
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$44.00
Purchased At:
RiverRat
Strengths:
Very good grip, wears well
Weaknesses:
Weight, rolls reeeeeeeally slow
Bike Setup:
2005 RM ETS-X 50; RaceFace Dues stem and crank, Fox Talas fork, Fox Float RP3 shock, RaceFace Evolve seatpost, LX shifter and hydro brakes
Bottom Line:
This tire has tons of grip and wears very well, but it rolls way to slow for the way I like to ride. I have been riding my Niner MCR9 mostly lately w/ wire bead Maxxis Ignitors, and I jumped on my Rocky today and I felt like I was riding in sand. I'll keep them for occaisonal late season rides in Tahoe, but that's the only conditions I will use these any longer. They just roll too slow for my for the fast XC riding I like to do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Sta. Rosa, Philippines Date Reviewed: November 18, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good All around, excellent dry tire, comfortable, predictable
Weaknesses:
Lateral grip in muddy conditions, Shedding abilities, Wet climbing especially on roots, punctures easily
Similar Products Used:
Nokian NBX, Leader Pro, Panaracer Trail Blaster, WTB Velociraptorm etc.
Bike Setup:
Chumba XCL
Bottom Line:
Decent all around tire. Easily taken off (folding type) great dry tires, fast descender,
The tire seems all the rave I guess but you just can't have it all. I believe the tire performance is linked to the condition it's being used on. The mud in this area consists of a slimy top layer with a clayish substrate. It's almost like a rainforest out here. I find that the nevegals are a bit limited in these conditions. The knobs don't seem to bite into the soil's substrate. It also doesn't shed well in low speed conditions. Mud riding also affects lateral grip as it slides from side to side. Also slips on wet roots but there are a few tires that don't I guess.
Overall, they are great when not too wet. Some rain is good but we're talking about 6 months of monsoon rains.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lauris Krisch
a Cross Country Rider
from Delta BC Canada Date Reviewed: November 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Watershed, Nicoles
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Overtime Sports
Strengths:
Incredible Grip.
Weaknesses:
A little heavier than the stock tire. Let's see how long they last.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Panaracer Dart / Smoke
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper 120, Talas , Fox. Setup for trail riding.
Bottom Line:
The stock specialized tire on my stumpy had a tendancy to slide out in the corners. Switched out the front tire from the stock 2.1 to Sticky E 2.35 Significant improvement in grip, especially in the wet conditions that we have on the west coast this time of year. Lot of fallen leaves covering up the roots. No problem for these tires. Great traction in the corners and in steep sections. Will replace the rear soon as well with sticky E Nevegal. A little heaveir and slightly slower than full on cross country tires. Buy em if you're looking for maximum grip in the wet, look elsewhere if you're looking for a fast xc race tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
solarity
a Cross Country Rider
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: October 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Easy as hell to put on. Aggressive knobs. They grip!!!
Weaknesses:
None noticed.
Similar Products Used:
Continental Vertical Pros, Hutchinson Scorpions (garbage), Panaracer fire XC, Specialized Enduro Pro(knobs flew off in first month), WTB Velociraptor, Weirwolf.
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth 6" AM bike.
Bottom Line:
In the short period that I have been using this tire (rear only) I can easily say that I am impressed. This tire bites and grips most terrain and trail conditions whether dry or wet. I have the 2.35 Stick-E version. The tire was super easy to mount on my Mavic rim. I rode this tire in dry, dusty conditions as well as in wet, leaf covered conditions. I was especially amazed by its grip on rocky and rooty climbs. So far the only limiting factor on steep climbs are my legs. The aggressive knobs/tread profile allows my bike to maintain stability over rough terrain. I have ridden head on through jagged rocks and small boulders with the occasional side swipe, but the side walls are still going strong. Overall I am very happy with this purchase. Time will tell regarding the longevity of this tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arnold Siagian
a Downhiller
from Brisbane Australia Date Reviewed: October 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Mt Cootha
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Solid and confident when cornering,climbing hard pack, most conditions or even commuting.
Weaknesses:
So far is sound like a my grand pa 50's harley davidson or BSA when you riding on the street/pavel.Shouldn't weaknesses for this product though.
Similar Products Used:
-
Bike Setup:
Norco Manik
Bottom Line:
These tyre come with original set up my norco manik. Ability to tackle most conditions and confident when you riding it. Few times have had awards means not only amateur rider like me can endorse this product but you name it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don Duende
a Weekend Warrior
from Eastern Sierra Date Reviewed: October 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Mammoth Mountain Bike Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$21.00
Purchased At:
from a friend
Strengths:
Nevegal 1.95 mounted on the rear wheel, initially as an experiment, when an Intense 2.24 tire went bad (defective casing). I was floored at how much better the Nevegal was and it stayed on for the entire summer. Looks and rides like a wider tire. Durable, not showing much wear after frequent use this summer. Runs Stans tubeless without any problem. It does everything so well, I forget that it is even there.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Intense 2.24 (QC sucks)
Bike Setup:
Intense 5.5
Bottom Line:
Relatively light, durable and excellent trail manners on hardpack, sandy, loose and rocky conditions. A winner. If you need to shed another 100gms, the Kenda Karma is a good compromise for a XC rear tire. But the Nevegal 1.95 really shines in all conditions as a rear tire. You could even race it on rocky courses.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sam vilneff
a Downhiller
from canada Date Reviewed: October 16, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
dougs
Strengths:
friggin grabs the ground, love it
Weaknesses:
none really
Similar Products Used:
WTB Dragon
Bike Setup:
Giant AC
Bottom Line:
i love em they don't wear, although ive had the bike for a day, lol. but there a year and a half old and no wear...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fritz Lehr
a Cross Country Rider
from Raleigh, NC, USA Date Reviewed: October 1, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$32.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bicycle
Strengths:
Good traction and grip, weight seems good for this type of tire(2.1 Stick-E)
Weaknesses:
A little high on rolling resistance, durability-the tire has now shed about 10 side knobs, making it pretty much useless for turning.
I liked the tire and it seemed to perform well. I was surprised to see several knobs sheered off with several others well on their way to tearing off. The tire did not fail or flat, but taking a turn made it feel like the back end was broken or going flat. I really hate this happened because I wanted to keep using this tire. I was going to try the 1.9 version of this tire because of the reveiw in Mountain Bike Action, but now I think I will go with something else. I will probably go back to the WTB tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christian Glupker
a Racer
from Michigan Date Reviewed: September 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
JensonUsa
Strengths:
Climbing, corners, sand, gravel, hard pack. Pretty much any trail condition
Weaknesses:
For a race tire, probable a tad on the heavy side and maybe a tad more rolling resistance.
Bike Setup:
Custom Specialized Epic Marathon, 2007
Bottom Line:
AWESOME Tires. I've raced in in PURE mud condition with heavy heavy heavy rain twice now this year. These tires were AWESOME in those conditions. I was passing people on climbs who just couldn't get their tires to bite.
Trails in michigan are loose over hard pack and these tires never washed out. I ran them with tubes at 38 psi and NEVER had a flat tire. NEVER.
I am switching to Stans and may change out to lighter tire like the Small Block, but just not sure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bill
a Downhiller
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: September 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
whistler or the shore
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Pinch flat protection, grip, good overall
Weaknesses:
kinda slow on pavement (too much grip!, duability
Similar Products Used:
wtb moto raptors, kenetics, mobsters, mofo dh ect
Bottom Line:
These tires hold up to the harshest hits without flating. I hear my rim hit multiple time a run, all without a flat! I checked my presure... and I was running my front at 12 psi and the rear at 20 without a flat! Amazing! All of my friends are slipping and sliding around while im in control, and thats a biggie on the shore (wet with tight switch-backs), the sticky compound really makes a difference! Buy these tires, its the one product I will keep on buying!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Enrique
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver Date Reviewed: September 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Das Rad Haus
Strengths:
Weight Width
Weaknesses:
Price Durability
Bike Setup:
Transition Covert
Bottom Line:
Do not buy this tire unless your trails are obstacle free. When a customer buys this tire it should come with a giant box of tubes to make up for all the puncture flats. For the price these tires are terrible. REFUND!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Quezon City, Philippines Date Reviewed: September 12, 2007
The tires performed as expected, with grip, LOTS OF IT. It's both a plus and minus. Plus when bombing the descents, confidence inspiring with the amount of grip and traction on the turns. However, it's a minus when riding uphill, also because of the grip. One thing this tire has, GRIP.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from Hayward, CA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Kennedy Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Came with the Bik
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
These tires punctured after riding for 15 minutes. about 40 little star bush spikes in them - these tires are thinner than my granpas hair !
Bike Setup:
GT AVALANCHE 1.0
Bottom Line:
Just upgraded bikes to a GT avalance 1.0. These tires came stock with the bike. I went on my first ride and after 15 minutes both tubes went flat. I looked at the tires and they were full of little flower spike things. I have NEVER had this problem before on my old bike with stock tires riding the same trail (about 15 times a year). I went to replace the tubes and the tires are so soft and thin that I will need to throw them away because there are so many spikes in them that I can;t get out. I am abviously very dissapointed. Maybe i just got really unlucky on my first ride out with these tires...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a
from Pueblo, CO usa Date Reviewed: September 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
gooey gription with decent wear (2.35 - DTC), large volume without excessive weight, overly moto but efective tread design, Year round usage and in a wide veriety of soils/rocks/roots, Predictable handling in anything but packing clay. Plays well with Stan's, Fast and quiet in the dirt.
Weaknesses:
Loud as a tractor on pavement and concrete (but still manages to roll fast). Nails seem to find their way in through the tread and out through the sidewall easily, but that could be a me thing.
These are truly great tires. Durable and predictable with a little care and the right air pressure. I love those chewy low derometer edgeing knobs better than gummy bears. Wear a pair.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Loehr Young
a Cross Country Rider
from Athens, GA USA Date Reviewed: August 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$64.00
Purchased At:
won at race & blue sky
Strengths:
I have run both the DTC 2.1 and the UST 2.1 (both run tubeless w/stans)WOW this is the best all around tire I have tried, it works very well in every condition I've run it in. They do wear a little quick but that's a good trade for the shear grip they have. I was able to mount both types tubeless with a floor pump, the regular DTC was a tiny bit tricky to get to hold air for more than a couple of days, but other than that these things are the bomb! Very predictable handling in turns, on every terrain wet or dry. I don't notice any slow rolling either. Get them you will not be disappointed!!
Weaknesses:
The only nit picky thing is a little quick wearing, but it's a trade for the traction they have!
The magazines are dead on it with this one! Get them they totally rock!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roy
a Downhiller
from Nashua Date Reviewed: August 26, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lite. Good grip when there not flat!
Weaknesses:
Paper thin sidewalls, Rocks cut through these tires like butter.
Bike Setup:
Giant faith custom.
Bottom Line:
These tires are junk! Every single time I went downhilling, I would pinch a tube with this tire. I bought it cause everyone was making a big deal about them. And there hole "pinch proof" sidewall?! Thats just BS! First time I pinched, I was running at 24psi. Second time was at 30psi. And the third was at 38psi. What does Kenda mean by low psi?! There probably good on smooth hills, BUT not on rocky new england mountains.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Providence ri Date Reviewed: August 14, 2007
Specialized Epic Comp Disc 05, large, race face next bar, xtr shifters, pedro dice grips
Bottom Line:
I raced with this tire this year and it took everything I gave it. Griped wet roots and rocks, climbed and cornered. I will likely never ride another tire. I will be converting to UST this winter. I don't understand the complaints about the traction. I ride in the north east, wet and muddy March-June, dry and sandy July-Sept, leaves on the ground until the snow hits.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
crappy
a Cross Country Rider
from san francisco, ca Date Reviewed: August 9, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
fast, light, and can take abuse. corners awesome and grips great. casing is true to size.
Weaknesses:
cost a bit more.
Similar Products Used:
wtb mutanoraptor, maxxis high roller, panaracer cinder and fire junk, irc kujo.
Bike Setup:
ibis mojo all decked out!
Bottom Line:
this is my fave tire so far! believe the hype...i've tried so many stupid tires that are sitting in my room it sucks. basically i wanted a larger tire in the front, so got the 2.35 dtc. totally grippy and rolls great. i ride aggressively so i'm impressed with the cornering and everything so far.
wtb mutanoraptor 2.5: sucked, too flimsy and didn't hold a corner worth crap...i slipped out all the time and nervous on aggressive downhills.
maxxis high roller: my current rear tire. i love it!
panaracer cinder: sucked the worse...couldn't grip anything, too small for me.
irc kujo: sure overkill on a xc ride, but i used it for light freeride and it was the best...never slipped at all, never pinch flatted.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Logan, UT Date Reviewed: August 7, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came as standard equipment on GT iDrive 4 2.0
Strengths:
These tires look neat!
Weaknesses:
High rolling resistance, lack of grip in dry, rocky, loose dry stuff, or hard pack conditions.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones AC (my favorite tire so far in 17 years of mtn biking), IRC Pirhana Pro's, Intense system 2's, WTB ExiWolf's.
Bike Setup:
GT iDrive 4 2.0 with Nevegal 2.1 on the rear and 2.3 on the front.
Bottom Line:
These came on my new iDrive and I was excited to give these tires a go. At first glance they look like they would be a good all-around tire, but after riding them I came away very disappointed. I really wanted to like them because they are such a great looking tire.
-These tires are squirrelly in the gravel, rocks, loose dry stuff,and hard pack.
-They do not roll well at all-they are so hard to spin.
-They wash out in the corners in the above listed conditions.
I have been riding Bontrager Jones AC (the original tread design in foldable) tires for the last 8 years or so, and those tires rock just about everywhere! The Nevegals bear a resemblance to the Jones AC pattern (lots of square blocks) so I thought they would be good for my terrain, but they are not. I just don't think it's the right tire for my climate/terrain. The knobs are spaced too far apart. This must be a good tire for moist/wet conditions because I haven't ridden them in that environment yet. If Kenda offered something with more blocks a little closer together; in between the Nevegal and the Small Block 8's, it just might be perfect (for me).
$
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
