Here's an unfair advantage that will still pass the urine test. Picture this: super low rolling resistance, light casing, sticky Hybrid Tread Compound AND the ultimate traction adjustability and flat protection of tubeless technology. If you're the competition be afraid. Very afraid. Click on the image to the left for an enlarged photo showing tread detail and related product specifications.
Not a bad choice if you can find a deal on em. Tread lasted about a year & just rotated front to back to squeeze few more miles out ov em. No complaints. Not as good as the Weirwolf's but way better than the Scorpion Lights.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wankel7
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: June 9, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Rainbow Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Great traction, corners well, low rolling resistance, UST holds air great.
Weaknesses:
Installation and Moab Slickrock really wore the rear tire down (could be normal it was my first time out there)
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Crossmark UST
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 98
Bottom Line:
Trying to get these tires on my Bontrager Racelite wheels was by far the most traumatic bike experience I have ever had. It was unbelievable how hard it was to get these damn things shoehorned onto my rims. I wasted so much Stans fluid because it was leaking out while I was trying to pry, curse, and wondering if they would ever go on. I had to use my air compressor turned up to about 80psi to get them to seat.
I had a valve stem break and I had to tube them. The bead did not seat right and the tire would wobble. Rode like that for over 20 miles and it held. Fixed the stem and pulled the tube out and the bead seated evenly.
I really like the tire but the difficulty of installation might make me avoid the tire.
However, they have stretched a little bit. Because getting them back on wasn't nearly as bad.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
emptyvoxel
a Weekend Warrior
from Bellingham, WA Date Reviewed: April 8, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Predictable traction, roll great, tough for such a light tire.
Weaknesses:
Installation is a bit more difficult than with other UST tires. As the previous reviewer said, when riding over pavement these things resonate straight up your seatpost.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal, Maxxis Crossmark, Maxxis Ignitor
Bike Setup:
Custom IH Azure
Bottom Line:
The IRC Serac XC is the best rear tire I've tried, with predictable grip in the wide variety of conditions we have here in the Pacific Northwest. I've found it to roll faster and grip better in soft, loamy soil and mud then the Kenda Nevegal that it replaced. Running the pressure in the low 30's gives excellent traction over wet roots and rocks as well.
Riding to the trailhead is definitely more interesting due to the resonating vibration that will travel up your seatpost if you use this as a rear tire, but you didn't buy a mountain bike to ride on pavement, do you?
These seem to be a bit tighter than other UST tires to mount, but stick with it! It's well worth the effort. I was able to seat the beads with a floor pump and plenty of suds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gatormark91
a Weekend Warrior
from Orlando, FL Date Reviewed: September 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Santos
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Bike Setup:
05 Jamis Dakar XC Expert w/Crossmax's
Bottom Line:
I reviewed these when I got them, so I figure I'll follow up now that I've been riding them for 6 months.
These tires are awesome. They roll over almost anything, suck the shock out of hits, and float over sugar sand that my lighter buddies running non-UST tires bog down in. I run them at about 37 psi. I am a big guy, and I have had to nothing to them in 6 months except put a few pounds of air in every month or so. I've had no flats, and they are wearing very well.
There are a few paved trails where I ride, if you ride any pavement, be forewarned, the knobs on these tires set up a resonant vibration at speed that will drive you mad. But I don't get on pavement much, so its no concern to me.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
see my review below for my experience mounting these (not hard at all)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Surfas
a Cross Country Rider
from Portugal Date Reviewed: June 11, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$38.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
. weight
. Durability
. Easy rolling
. Superb side grip
. Braking
. Traction
. Security
. Control
Santacruz BLT'05 XTR/X0, Crossmax XL, Thomson, Easton CNT, Formula Oro Puro
Bottom Line:
This is my best tire ever, my buddies told me that they ride with Serac since they came out and don't trade for anything. Another friend trade the Roll X/Adrenaline combo and tells amazings about Serac, so this was my time to test them and what a fantastic tire better than Schwalbe NN 2.25 !!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from North Augusta, SC Date Reviewed: May 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
FATS
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
These corner like you are on rails!
Weaknesses:
Hmmmmm...None.
Similar Products Used:
Numerous Michelin, IRC and Kenda tires, tubed and tubeless.
Bike Setup:
Spec. Stumpy FSR Expert
Bottom Line:
I had been using Stan's No-Tubes for a year or so on non-UST wheelsets, and decided to step up to the plate and go full UST this year. I bought a Shimano XT UST wheelset for the wife and then came across a killer deal on some '08 XTR UST wheels. Tried various Michelin tires, then some Maxxis, and then these IRC Seracs in 2.10.
WOW! These tires are all that! They rail corners and roll like nobody's business. I had absolutely no problems mounting them. Granted, they are tight as heck, and are not as easy as tubed tires, but they are mountable by mere mortals. After I mounted them, they pressurized using a floor pump. They do not lose air at all.
I have been so impressed that I am getting a set in size 1.95 for my wife. She doesn't need quite the volume as I do, and they'll be perfect for her Yeti AS-Rsl.
I am sold!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott bays
a Cross Country Rider
from charleston, sc Date Reviewed: April 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
oak mt., alabama
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
on line
Strengths:
reasonably light, good traction, good price (2 for $60), durable.
Weaknesses:
a little harder than other tires to install on my crossmax wheels, but not that bad.
Similar Products Used:
many tubed and tubless
Bike Setup:
merlin works 4.0
Bottom Line:
nothing add from above.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: March 11, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Great tread design, fast rolling with strong bite while cornering due to sturdy side knobs. Lightwieght for tubeless.
Weaknesses:
Nothing really. Maybe that I can't get them for free.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mibro UST
Bike Setup:
Ventana Pantera, Marzocchi MX Pro ETA, XT shifters/levers, Avid Juicy 7's, Easton Cockpit, Mavic Crossmax Enduro Disc, Terry Fly Saddle
Bottom Line:
A great tire. Usually good for a season of riding in Northern Utah where its mostly dry hardpack for the better parts of the season. Rolls fast, great grip for climbing which is essential for an XC rider in Utah. Braking traction and cornering are spot on. I have seen the complaints about mounting, but that has not been my experience. (Want a hard tire to mount - try the Mibros!) I don't run Stans or other juice in the tire and didn't encounter many flats. Used superglue and a hand pump to quick fix the occasional small puncture.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Orlando, FL Date Reviewed: February 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Santos
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Pricpoint
Bike Setup:
'05 Jamis Dakar XC Expert w/Crossmax's
Bottom Line:
I just installed these, haven't had a chance to ride them yet. But to those who say these are hard to mount, I'm sorry, but it is your technique, you are doing something wrong!!! I am a newbie to working on my bike, and have mounted up exactly 4 tires, of which 2 were these IRCs.
I mounted these with some soap and 2 cheap tire levers on my new Crossmax's (which one self-professed expert says below is IMPOSSIBLE) in about 1 hour start to finish.
I will say this, though... Once on the rim, the beads didn't want to seat until I aired them up with an air compressor. A manual pump just wasn't doing the trick... It just sputtered and leaked Stan's! I just set my compressor to 40psi, aired them up, and - POP, POP, POP - the beads set in...
Looking forward to riding these this weekend!!! So far, 5 chilis...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Young
a Cross Country Rider
from Roswell, Ga. USA Date Reviewed: December 7, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Handling, tracking, braking and rolling resistance in medium to loose conditions.
Weaknesses:
Wear resistance.
Similar Products Used:
Michelin Comp S Light, Hutchinson Python Light, IRC Mythos XC
Bottom Line:
These are, by far, the best tires I've ever ridden. These are well suited to North Georgia. They handle medium to loose terrain with ease and always seem to keep me in control, even when I'm overcooking it through a fast corner. They perform just fine on hardpack as well, but will wear out quickly in these conditions. These are soft compound tires however, so I don't expect them to hold up to hardpack, and I've gotten plenty of good miles on them, especially for the price I paid. 5/5 for where I ride them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: August 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint.com
Strengths:
Light weight, fast roller.
Weaknesses:
Doesn't hook up well, hard as heck to install
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC Pro, Maxxis High Roller UST, Hutchinson Barracuda
Bike Setup:
Yeti ASR, X.0, X.9, Avid Juicy's, Mavic 819's
Bottom Line:
This is the worst tubeless tire I've run on my rear since I got tubeless tires on my new bike in March of '06. They do not inspire any confidence on the trail and were very hard to install. At least with other rear tires that I did not like, it was only because of quicker wear, not performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fabian
a Cross Country Rider
from El Paso, TX Date Reviewed: July 10, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Bought a pair to replace some Hutchinson Python. They seem to be lasting longer, as light as them and about the same effort to mount them.
Weaknesses:
Could be easier to mount.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Python UST, Michelin
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR XC
Bottom Line:
Easier to mount that the Michelin, a little hard than the Hutchinson but more durable. Good grip, better than Hutchinson, faster than Michelin. There may be better tires but not much at this price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MESS
a Racer
from Colorado Date Reviewed: May 23, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Unbelievable grip Great in all trail conditions Great on speedy descents Grip well on techy climbs SUPER confidence level at speed and in corners
Weaknesses:
Heavy, (the non-UST is pretty light but don't fet UST rims well) Not the fastest rolling tire
Similar Products Used:
Recently, Kenda's, Pythons, Panaracer Fire XC, Mythos, WTB's, many more over many years
Bottom Line:
First let me dispell the myths about this tire not fitting well. I JUST installed 2 of them on brand new 2007 CrossMax SL's in about 20 minutes, with Stans sealant inside. I've read about people's woes here that they don't fit well and they are giving bad ratings because of this. DON'T LISTEN. Use soapy water on the beads, use a couple tire levers and use your noggin. They are tight, but jeez- it's not THAT hard. I've raced these tires EXCLUSIVELY for 4 seasons in Colorado. These tires have helped me win races- I say that with confidence. The confidence I have going in to corners hot allows me to carry speed all the way through and even make up time. When conditions change quickly, (from soft powdery singletrack to gravel, to rocky descents, for example) the deep knobs are there to get you through it. They do not pack with mud because of the wide spacing. I feel they shine at speed on race course descents. They also decelerate very well during hard braking. Many other tires don't grab well to slow you down but with these you can stop on a dime.
They don't roll or accelerate quite as fast as Pythons, but are not designed to be fast-rolling World Cup tires. I feel this is about their only performance weakness, in addition to weight (The gram scale reads 720 grams, compared to 555 for the Pythons I was running in the offseason.) I did try the non-UST type with my CrossMax tubeless wheels and they did not hold air- even with the Stan's rimstrip installed. The tire circumferance is a little too wide on the non-UST. Unbelievable performance, acceptable rolling resistence, and the weight penalty is worth the extra traction. BUY EM.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a
from Teetertown, NJ USA Date Reviewed: August 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Allamuchy
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
Grips and rolls fast. Feel lighter than the Panaracer Fire XC. Rides great in all conditions.
Weaknesses:
Like the other posts, alittle tight to get on. Used Stans and it seals fast for first install.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC, Hutch Python, ... tried them all.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur, Sram...
Bottom Line:
Great all around tire. Will use for 24 hour racing. Drop some Stans in and forget about them. Worry about pedaling, not the tires. They do what you ask.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doug morgan
a Racer
from 1100 coal bank rd Date Reviewed: August 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Little Ade's
Strengths:
Everything...this tire is fast and hooks up better in corners than any other tubeless tire I have ridden. Sheds mud better, grips technical stuff better, does everything better. If you know how to properly mount a tire, you will have no problem. I just mounted two new tires last nite. No issues, just do it the correct way and be patient.
You guys that are having problems, i'd suggest you go to your LBS and have them show you how to mount one.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Roll X Pros, Hutchinson.
Bike Setup:
04 Jamis Dakar XC Comp....everything upgraded.
Bottom Line:
Get these tires. You won't be sorry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bret
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, Idaho Date Reviewed: March 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Nice tread design
Weaknesses:
Almost impossible to get on the rim. Does not sit straight(very wobbly)
Similar Products Used:
Specialized fast track 2bliss, Continental UST, 2 different Michelin UST tires
Bottom Line:
I have not had so much trouble trying to put a tire on, and I have dealt with many other tubeless tires with no problems at all. It also did not seat straight at all. I did use soapy water. I have rated 2 other items on this site with 4 and 5 chiles so I am not one to gripe, but this tire is highly unrecommended!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John B.
a Racer
from Koksilah, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: January 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Tzuhalem
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Pro Deal pricing
Strengths:
These tires are now my favorite all round tire. I use them for my daily rides as well as training and racing. They are not the fastest or the lightest of all the tires in my collection, but they are very good as a day to day tire and as a race tire in mixed BC Coastal terrain with wet conifer roots, muddy forest soil and also dry rocky terrain.
The tread is moderately aggressive, though not overly so.
The tires roll well. On an alternating day to day comparo with my 24lb XC hardtail (Hutchy pythons with XT hubs/717 rims) vs my 30lb FS all mountain bike (IRC Serac 2.1UST XT hubs/819 rims), over a 30 km ride from home to the trails and back with some 600+ metres of climbing on average... the riding times were almost identical day after day after day.
Weaknesses:
These were a little difficult to mount, but not that bad. The first one was tight and the second one not so bad. Use a little soap and water and proper technique to do it and it's not that bad... do make good use of the drop center in the rim. I can't believe how many people have a tough time mounting or changing tires, then blame the tire maker when it's really just poor technique.
Had to repair one of these tires by installing a lightweight tube just before a race since I didn't want to flat it during the race. It had a gashed sidewall from rubbing up against a sharp rock. Judging by the gouge in the rim, I am suprised the tire didn't give up on life right away.
Tire was still holding air well, even with the outer rubber torn off the casing on a patch about the size of a loonie and with the threads of the casing showing.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Pythons 2.1 Folding, Nokian somethingerother wire bead and also a Kevlar bead version, Panaracer Fire XC pro folding etc.. etc...
Bike Setup:
'05 Kona Dawg Primo with XT hubs and 819 rims. The stock Sun rims folded up in the first 30 kms... Mavics have been great and have over 1000kms on them in the past 7 months. Tires are directionally mounted for braking in the front and climbing in the rear.
Bottom Line:
These are a very good tire all round. They are raceable and good for daily riding. The hook-up for climbing on mixed BC West Coast terrain (Vancouver Island) is good to very good. I have found them to be more predictable than the Panaracers and have better grip for climbing and are more stable on roots.
They descend well, but the side lug spacing could be quite a bit tighter to offer better cornering control. It would be nice to see slightly tigher center and mid lug spacing for the terrain I typically ride.
I would consider my riding style to be aggressive cross country and all mountain while I am riding this particular bike.
This particular tire set probably has close to 750 or 800kms on them. The front is in good shape, though the rear is getting low-ish on tread but is still very rideable. These tires have work surprisingly well and I will replace just the rear tire in the near future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GUY SPIHER
a Racer
from Winston Salem Date Reviewed: December 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Wild Oak or Chestnut Gap
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$49.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Addendum to my earlier review of 3/27/04. There is simply no better all condition tire than this. Reasonably light for UST excellent grip in corners and climbing and spins up quickly for the last minute sprint to the line. Go Get Em Tiger!! Cheap Cheap Cheap. I get about 500 --700 miles from a set depending on usage, rocks etc. I flatted in a rock garden during a race and the sealant was no match for the hole but nothing is perfect. UST version of this tire does not have the retarded red sidewall like the tube version.
Weaknesses:
A trifle hard to mount without some soap and water in a spray bottle. Bonus... When the cat comes by to see what you are doing, squirt him with a little soapy water. Don't be a doofus and squirt him in the face though. No weaknesses so I had to ramble about something I guess.
Similar Products Used:
Weirwolfs, Exploders, Cinders, Pythons, They all have their uses except the Exploders which just send you to the ER
Bike Setup:
East Coast Ti Hardtail Manitou Black SPV and a Trek Fuel 100 Fox Cane Creek both bikes and Race Face FSA Cane Creek goodies.Built to be ridden not coddled. Seen on the trail not on top the SUV.
Bottom Line:
Got a shed full of tires??? Sell em on E Bay and get these babies. No tool does everything (sorry Bob Villa)and no tire does it all but these tires come as close as anything I have ever used.The Vise Grip of tires. Roll.They roll better than the Nevegals but the Nevegals are an awesome EXTREME conditions tire. Grip.The Seracs grip better than most any tire out there. If you are a smooth rider these tires will hook up as you lean into any corner. They transtion well from edge to edge, simply weight the outside pedal and they are there for you.If you are not yet smooth but physically fit, think your ROADIE buddy on a MTB then these tires will put up with his spastic yanking and banking. When these tires are put on edge they grip without complaint.When these tires break loose its very predictable and usually not for long before they reassert themselves.Always weight your outside pedal. The one thing I noticed was when these tires are straightened back up coming outof a turn there is no tire anywhere that had that kind of grip and that kind of acceleration together. Use Soap and water to mount and a Pedros tire lever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Schoenly
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Collins, CO Date Reviewed: November 7, 2005
Favorite Trail:
anything technical
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Great control,low low low rolling resistance, climbs anything, slow to break loose, great in the corners, Cheap-Cheap, low weight penalty for being tubeless
Weaknesses:
My last IRC Mythos rear tire only lasted 200 miles, so we'll see, I have to fill them every day I ride but it seems thats the way tubeless is.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos Tubless, Specialized Roll X, Fire XC pro
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR 04 with Mavic 819/XT rims and Avid BBDB 7 brakes
Bottom Line:
WOW, what a difference over the Mythos and the Fire XC Pro tires. I am coasting down trails I used to have to pedal down. I am accelerating while coasting at a much faster pace than I used to, I am actually using my brakes MORE with these tires because I gain speed so easily. They also break loose very slow in the turns and they are predictable, I feel like I am on a 20" BMX bike again with these on my bike. If I can get more than 400 miles out of a set of these I will never buy anything else. These are my 4th tire in 15 months. I wanted to wait to ride these longer before I reviewed them but I am so impressed with them I had to write a review.
Disclaimer: I ride trails typical to the west, Rocky, hardpack, some sand. Your mileage may vary.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DAVID
a Cross Country Rider
from BASTIAN, VA Date Reviewed: August 6, 2005
Favorite Trail:
HAPPY JACK REC. AREA. LAMARIE, WY
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
PRICE POINT
Strengths:
Just a great all conditions tire. I ride trails coast to coast and was looking for a tire that would work good in most conditions. went through quite a few. and the Serac is by far the best. gets a great bite when putting the power down in dry loose cond. Have 300 mi of dirt and 70 miles of pavement under these tires and they have worn down about 1/8 in. Run a python on the front and these tires work very well together. i'm 145 lbs and usally run 28-32 psi. 2 scoops of stans and no flats.
Weaknesses:
very tight fit, use soap to mount
Similar Products Used:
python, scorpion, larson TT, speclialized roll x
Bike Setup:
2004 anv. add, stumpjumper
Bottom Line:
great all around tire
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Racer
from Arizona Date Reviewed: July 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
LBSRP
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
wood n wave
Strengths:
Hooks up in all types of terrain, durable, holds air well.
Weaknesses:
Only produced in 26 inch. I'm going 29er and have to say goodbye.
Similar Products Used:
Python UST
Bike Setup:
02 Stumpjumper M4 Pro stock hardtail
Bottom Line:
This tire hooks up in all conditions and wears well. I'm running tubeless with Stan's on Mavic X517 rims. The Serac 2.1 is on the rear and I have a Python Tubeless Light 2.0 on the front. Mounting the serac was not that dramatic. I started using this tire out east and immediately noticed that wheel-spin disappeared while climbing wet roots and rocks. I live in Southwest Arizona now and the serac tears uphill over gravelly rock ledge and loose over hardpack like a CAT D9. NO flats, ever. 2 scoops of Stans. I weigh 185 lbs and inflate 28 to 32 psi depending on terrain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RolF Rimrot
a Racer
from Wayne, PA USA Date Reviewed: June 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Michaux National Forrest
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Bike Line / Pricepoint
Strengths:
Hooks up in all conditions, best all around tire period
Weaknesses:
A bit more drag rolling resistance that other tires but the cornering and overall traction is well worth eating the extra drag
Similar Products Used:
Bontraeger Revolt - terrible under braking and cornering compared to the Serac.
Bike Setup:
2003 and reciently 2005 Cannondale Scalpel 4000 team and 2004 Trek 9.8 Hardtail, Mavic Crossmax
Bottom Line:
For a reasonable priced tire that works in all conditions you can't fond a better tire, train a little harder to get used to the drag and you will fly with these tires, In 3 years of hard core rocky technical east coast racing I only ever flatted 1 Serac due to running the air pressure to low. These tires work best at 32 lbs.
And I never had a problem mounting them, they are a bit tighter than others but a little soapy water and an estra tire iron do the trick. I can mount a set in 10 minutes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Broughton
a Racer
from Winfield, WV USA baby Date Reviewed: April 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Plantation at Blackwater
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Charleston Bicycle Center
Strengths:
Light, good traction in various conditions
Weaknesses:
Tolerances too tight. Hard to install on a Mavic X3.1 UST Disc.
Similar Products Used:
First Tubeless specific tire. Converted a regular tire. Worked well until I pinch flatted it.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Scalpel, Magura Marta, XTR Crank, King Disc hubs, Thomson SP, Sram trigger shifters and derailleur.
Bottom Line:
I like to post a general opinion on tubeless tires. I only tried them because my LBS didn’t have the rim I wanted. I'm running Stan's sealant because there are so many thorns around here. My first foray into tubeless technology involved converting a Michelin XL S with Stan’s no tubes. Playing around in the parking lot before a ride I pinch flatted it. The hole was too big for the sealant to work. I then bought the Serac (tubeless specific). I hit a rock while flying down a hill and pinch flatted that tire as well. I quickly spun the tire around so that the leak was at the bottom and watched as the Stan’s permeated the ground and the air sputtered out of the tire. Now I have to remove the valve and install a tube. Slimy crap all over the place. The tire is now marginally easier to remove and install. I can do it with my hands. The initial installation required the use of levers. I’ve been installing tires for many years and don’t even use levers on road tires. Now I’ve added the weight of a tube to a tire that started out heavier than a tire/tube combo. To add insult to injury the X3.1 UST weighs more than the X517 (the rim I wanted). After pinch flatting the tire while running 35 psi I’m very skeptical of claims of better traction due to lower air pressure. This is one of the lightest tires in the Quality catalog. Maybe a heavier tire would have better pinch flat protection. I’ve already reinstalled my Ritchey Elevader with tube and won’t be going tubeless again any time soon. If tubeless technology made sense for off road, they’d make tubeless tires for dirt bikes (MX class motorcycles).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from San Francisco, Ca Date Reviewed: April 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Burma
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Semi light, cheap 2 for 50 bucks. easy to install
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer fire xc, maxxis highroller,hutchinson python
Bike Setup:
Santa cruz superlight, Crossmax SSC disc, juicy five, xt cranks, XTR derailers, shifters, Sram 69 chain, easton carbon riser bars, Thompson post and stem, WTB lazer V saddle, Fox RLC 100, Fox RP3 rear,
Bottom Line:
These tires are a great all around wet and sloppy to dry and dusty condition. I have tried it all and these tires fly with low rolling resistance and grip with the best. It grips singletrack like dog stuff on your kids shoe. If you have run Annadel State Park these tires scratch and claw there way through slick wet rocks, dry rocks, babyhead rocks, river rocks, boulders, roots, water crossings, log jumps, hard packed dirt, loose dirt and of course my driveway. Also for all those wimps that can not mount your tires you might want to hit the gym hard. These tires rock. Buy them, get them, next day air them. Later
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
coalriver-rider
a Cross Country Rider
from Charleston, WV Date Reviewed: March 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Any trail at KSF
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Grips in the loose stuff, low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
Hard to mount.
Similar Products Used:
Michelin, Bontrager,
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 90
Bottom Line:
For the price these are good tires. I ride in a lot of sand and wet weather and these tires perform great under those conditions. They were the hardest tubless tires I've ever mounted. But it wasn't that bad, I didn't have to use any soap or put the tires in the clothes dryer or all that other stuff people say they do. A little tip. Once you get the tire on to the point that it won't go any further with your hands. You need 3 tire levers. I like to pin the one on the left with my left knee. Then I use the other 2 levers on the right side and alternate the 2 levers taking little bits of the tire until I work my way around to the lever pinned under my left knee. I've also been really pleased with the way these tires hold air pressure, way better than the Michelin's on my Jekyll.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: January 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Good grip, rolls very well, does what mtb tyres used to do before they got so light they don't grip any more.
Weaknesses:
hard to mount, but certainly not imposible
Similar Products Used:
phythons, fire pro, etc
Bike Setup:
NRS1
Bottom Line:
I've tried many tyres, I can't be bothered swapping tyres for different conditions, so I use these all the time. I bought the Panaracer fire xc pro last time I ran them for only 300kms & went straight back to the seracs best tyre I ever riden.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alberto Gavilán Luque
a Racer
from BArcelona, Spain Date Reviewed: November 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Collserola
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$39.00
Purchased At:
Medina Competicion
Strengths:
Neumático todo terreno. 2.1 Delante y 1.95 Detrás. En subidas agarra muy bien sin lastrar la marcha. Bajando es de lo mejorcito que he probado, y el terreno por el que me muevo combina pista con trialeras difíciles. Durabilidad alta: tres meses el trasero y cinco el delantero (suelo hacer unos 1.000 km/mes). Calidad de la goma.
Weaknesses:
Precio.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Scorpion delantero, pero en terreno seco y de pista agarra demasiado en subida. Python, pero en humedo olvidate de él.
Compito durante todo el año en carreras de mtb en España y creo que este neumático intenta con éxito ser bueno en todos los terrenos. Ante un circuito desconocido y con variedad de terrenos es ideal porque se adapta a todo. Además es el primer neumático tubeless en el que gasto los tacos sin pinchar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martavious
a Cross Country Rider
from Henry County, Georgia Date Reviewed: October 31, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Daucet Trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$55.00
Strengths:
Unknown
Weaknesses:
Bead is too tight for Mavic 3.1 rims.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Ignitor
Bike Setup:
NRS-1, Mavic 3.1 rims, Chris King Hubs, etc.
Bottom Line:
Unless you know these will fit your rims, don't bother. Not even close to fitting, or I would have (carefully) tried tools. I got the tires with black sidewalls. Red sidewalls may have better tolerances. I thought I would contact IRC to give them a chance to exchange for red sidewall tires, but no website. Who doesn't have a website?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Corvallis, OR, USA Date Reviewed: October 10, 2004
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
$55 Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Good traction and handling in most soil conditions. Good traction in the mud and sheds well.
Weaknesses:
heavier than other tires
Similar Products Used:
continental explorer, panaracer fire xc, hutchinson mosquito
Bike Setup:
klein palomino
Bottom Line:
the bottom line is this is a great tire. it performs well in all conditions hard/soft - wet/dry. For the price you will not find a better tire. In short, super great value, and great, but not outstanding performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Racer
from Medford, MA Date Reviewed: September 22, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Great traction, excellent durability, extreme confidence while cornering or charging.
Weaknesses:
none yet. maybe in this age of weight weenies, i could say weight, but not an issue for me.
Similar Products Used:
panaracer xc pro; hutchinson python light; michelin comp s light; nokian nbx lite
Bike Setup:
ellsworth truth all pimped-out for racing
Bottom Line:
I like these tires. As most amatuer races do, i'm constantly looking for the right tire. In muddy, technical terrain this tire has been very impressive. If you like to attack the terrain and race aggressively, this tire will hold the course for you.
The IRC Serace sheds mud like crazy and depending on tire pressure hooks-up everything. Unfortunately, when tire pressure is decreased low enough to really get some grip in the mud, the tire's rolling resistance suffers more than other tires i've ridden.
In comparison, the Michelin Comp S are sweet-as, but make for a loose ride in the wet stuff. Panaracer XC Pro's are amazing, but shed mud horribly.
A few of the above reviews mention using the Serac in rear and a faster rolling tire in front. I think this is good option for wet conditions. I also recommend using the Serac up front in drier conditions for grip on fast corners and a narrow fast rolling tire in rear (similar to a downhill set-up, but the xc racer version).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew Vangelisti
a Cross Country Rider
from Markham, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: August 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Durham Regional Forest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Markham Cyclepath
Strengths:
Great grip for northeastern conditions. Damp, wet, muddy, mushy, wet gravel, steep climbs you name it, it did it today. Very wet day in the forest, pouring rain for half the ride and I made it up every climb - all others pushed.
Weaknesses:
It is a little tough to get on. LBS used a little soap as instructed and got them on.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer XC pro 1.8, Scorpion 1.75, Specialized Dirt Control Master. IRC's are 1.90 and that is about as small as I am willing to go. As a smaller rider 140lbs 5'5", I have experimented with tires as small as 1.5. You need some rubber for corners and grip.
Bike Setup:
2004 S-Works (non disc) with full XTR, Crossmax SL, 959
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is that these are not expensive tires and they absolutely rock. Highly recommend them to anyone riding in damp muddy conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dr. Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Bethesda, MD Date Reviewed: August 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Not at work
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Don't know--couldn't get them on!
Weaknesses:
Impossible installation--see below
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Python Tubeless Light
Bike Setup:
Yeti ARC, Crossmax XL
Bottom Line:
There is not a single tire on this entire planet that is good enough to justify the horrific experience of trying to install these tires, and I say "trying" on purpose because THESE TIRES WOULD NOT MOUNT ON MY CROSSMAX XL'S WITH ANY AMOUNT OF SOAP, SOAPY WATER, TIRE LEVERS, PRAYING, SWEARING, OR ANY COMBINATION THEREOF. I've been working on my own bike for years, and can install just about any tire without levers or any difficulty until I bought these.
Seriously, if you own Crossmax wheels, don't bother with these steamy turds. Whatever design IRC is using is clearly NOT with the Crossmax rim in mind.
Incidentally, the Hutchinson Python Tubeless Lights I bought out of sheer frustration for $110 a pair went on in less than 2 minutes, so despite the big money, I'm keeping them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Monsieur
a Racer
from Montreal Date Reviewed: July 13, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Anything fast & technical
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
Awesome grip in wet conditions Do not pack with mud Heavy duty side walls (for an XC tire) Super easy to inflate (tire so tight on rim!) Very acceptable rolling resistance (for racing)
Weaknesses:
A little bit on the heavy side (for racing) Difficult to mount/remove from rim, but not impossible (tire lever and good technic required).
Similar Products Used:
Alot but none were as good as the Serac in wet conditions. Maxxis Mimo 2.0 62A is a good second choice: roll faster but you have less traction...
Bike Setup:
Hardtail with FSA XC-300 wheels, Stan's Notubes system, Serac 2.1 (1.9 are really skinny) front & back
Bottom Line:
Very good wet tire (even for racing). Sticks on roots & rocks, dig in muddy soil (Northeast conditions!!). I raced these tires in wet conditions and I loved them. You can really trust these tires when things become slippery...
But keep your Python Lite for the dryer days... :)
If your looking for a wet weather tire...dont waste your money & time on an other tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn Kirby
a Cross Country Rider
from Warner, NH USA Date Reviewed: July 2, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Bikeman.com
Strengths:
Good grip on our New England terrain. Hold very well on roots and wet rocks. Holds air very well. I mounted these tires without a lever no problem, there is a trick, push the beads to the grove in the middle of the rim when mounting, may be a little harder to inflate but a floor pump did it for me.
Weaknesses:
A little sketchy on loose fast downhills.
Bike Setup:
Yeti ASR_SL
Bottom Line:
I would recomend these tires to anyone in the Northeast. I put a scoop and a half of stan's sealant in each tire when I mounted them and have had to add air only once in 3 months.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew
a Cross Country Rider
from Fairfield, CT USA Date Reviewed: June 22, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any in Troutbrook
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
These tires have great grip, hold air pretty well, are lightweight and have good sidewalls.
I have rode and raced many tires before and the tubeless IRC Seracs seem to work the best for me.I didn't have any problems installing these tires on my Mavic 3.1 rims. I used them at a race at Mt. Snow this past weekend and they worked flawlessly in the mud ,rocks and roots! I run them with 30-32lbs.of air.Check what the winning pro racers are using for tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Victor
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento, CA Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Decent grip, rolls okay on pavement. Not too heavy
Weaknesses:
Very difficult to mount. Narrow for a 2.0 tire.
Similar Products Used:
Scorpion UST
Bike Setup:
Truth with Mavic 3.1 UST wheels
Bottom Line:
I read the reviews and bought these anyway. The first one installed easily and I thought I got lucky. Nope. The second one was beyond difficult but I perservered and got it to mount after an hour of fighting with it. I used soapy water, no levers, and even read the directions . My arms were really pumped after that experience. On the performance side, they work pretty well. Decent grip and fairly quick rollers. I doubt these are truly 2.0 size; they seem narrow. The Seracs are a little squirmy on the pavement but adjusting the air pressure can moderate that. If you buy these get ready for a good fight installing them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GUY
a Racer
from Winston Salem Date Reviewed: March 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any EPIC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$54.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Traction and Durability These tires laugh at rocks Excellent all around grip and very leanable. Simply wheelie onto a rock or ledge of some sort,lean or turn the tire and she grips. Noi questions asked. very predictable
Weaknesses:
Can be a real b***h to mount. Rear tire wears not fast but faster than I expect. I have about 500 miles on them Expect a thou at best
Similar Products Used:
Conti Explorer Mich Wildgrippers etc etc etc etc
Bike Setup:
East Coast Epic hardtail Ti with a zoki marathon on the front. I like it..
Bottom Line:
I have had two broken fingers from a previous miscalculation to go with a broken thumb and a broken right hand, not all at once but suffice it to say I do not have the Kung Fu grip. These tires wwere a real summ b***h to mount. Pedros downhill tire levers did the trick.As for gettin' them off if I get a flat?? I squirted in some Slime or as my wife calls it SCHLIME. I have had ZERO air loss ZERO, I understand that there are two versions of this tire, cheapie and the better more easily mounted tire. Please shed some light on this. The grip and traction are great. No tire is perfect though.Excells in loose over hardpack type trails and Rocky Loamy type PISGAH Trails . I have really abused these tires on some rocks and they love it. So do I.. A faithful backcountry servant ,obediant, predictable communicative and cheap - if you know where to look. RECCOMENDO BUENO MUI BUENO
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Oregon Date Reviewed: March 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
McKenzie
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
shop employee
Strengths:
Grip, weight
Weaknesses:
Wears somewhat quick, although not too bad-like all UST tires: Pricey!
Similar Products Used:
Fire XC Pro, Tioga Psycho, Ritchey Z-Max, Conti Explorer pro
Bike Setup:
used on C-dale Scalpel and Jekyll 2000
Bottom Line:
Great tires! I haven't had any trouble installing them (using them on Mavic X819's). I just use a Park platic tire lever and they go on like a regular tire. There is a bit of air leakage (needs air every 2nd day or so), so I will be putting Stan's sealant on them this season. They hold as well as Panaracer's Fire XC Pro's, which is probably as well-respected of an XC tire as you will find. I have had 4 tires, and all worked great-no problems related to installation. Great on hardpack, predictable in dust and on rocky terrain. Plus, they are relatively light for a UST tire and seem to roll well and last a decent amount of time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Fe, NM Date Reviewed: March 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
probably work great if they could be installed
Weaknesses:
way too small to fit on wheel.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC Pro
Bike Setup:
Klein Palamino Race
Bottom Line:
Sounds like there is a serious lack of quality control at IRC. The set I got weren't even close to fitting. There was a good 2.5 inches to go when I tried to put the last bead on, even after using soapy water... Returned these and bought Panaracer Fire XCs. Those installed no problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from WA Date Reviewed: February 13, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tapeworm
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Mounted easily but did take a while with a floor pump to air up. However, the more soapy water you use, the easier it becomes.
Weaknesses:
Seems to wear pretty fast.
Bike Setup:
Mavic Crossroc UST rims
Bottom Line:
These tires have been great. I drop some Stan's in eveey once in a while and rarely do I have to add air. I have punctured the tires twice now. One hole sealed itself with thanks to Stan's sealant. For the other hole I used a tube patch on the inside of the tire. I found a slice on the outside of the rear tire recently so I just applied some automotice RTV gasket sealer to it. Working Just fine. I run 40 PSI in these and the traction is awesome. When I run 40 PSI in my tubed Panaracers I slide off every root and rock.
I have put these tire through the test and would recommend them to anyone looking for a UST tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimmy
a Racer
from Pa Date Reviewed: February 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Black bear (laurel mountain)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
Amazing traction for the low rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
Mounting, read the bottom line
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos, michelin comp ust, specialized...
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar
Bottom Line:
It seems as if IRC was inconsistant when manufacturing the Serac UST. Some peoples mounted easily, others didn't. My advice is this: If you want a racing or riding tire that has amazing traction in loose or wet conditions, go with the serac. I would reccomend getting the seracs with the red side wall because the all black ones are maid in korea and the red are made in the usa. I have the black ones and had to use a motorcycle tire lever to get them on. My guess is that the red side wall tires are more easily mountable. So its buying these tires is a risk, but if you get them on you'll definately have an advantage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michal
a Cross Country Rider
from Prague, Czech Rep. Date Reviewed: November 30, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Programcycle
Strengths:
rolling resistence traction (in corners, hills, braking) weight
Weaknesses:
probably none, sometimes they got me into an unpleasant situation but I guess it was my fault
Similar Products Used:
Scorpion UST, Skinny Jimmy 1.9 UST
Bike Setup:
Specialized Enduro Expert 2001, Mavic X3.1
Bottom Line:
Firstly, to all "bikers" complaining about mounting these tires. Have you ever tried soupy water (I dont know how you call that but I use the gel soap (shower gel?), not mixed with water!) to rinse the beads of the tire before mounting? No? No surprise you have problems, then. After inflating the tires to 2 bars it holds air more that a week without need to reinflate. These tires are great. The material of the tire is really very soft, I'd say it is sticky. They are very fast, when climbing they provide an excellent traction. In downhills, again the traction is great on all terrains, braking capabilities are surprising. They dont wear out quickly (like Hutchinson, for example). These tires rules, when you add their weight to it, its a no brainer. I'd like to try Vertical Pros UST then I'll see which one is the best UST tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne Date Reviewed: November 6, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
This tire is very strong and will fight you until your hands go numb.
Weaknesses:
I found one, it is a recipe. Place tire in oven and set to 350 degrees for 8 mins.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson, Michelin (No problem mounting any of these).
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel, Bontrager race lite rims.
Bottom Line:
Never tried the recipe I just sent them back. Mounting these tires was to me impossible. I probably would have really liked these tires because of the aggresive tred pattern. Have you ever heard the term "SO CLOSE BUT YET SO FAR".
If your able to mount this tire consider yourself luckly and enjoy the ride. I myself have tried every technique in the book besides baking them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: September 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Excellent traction and low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
Mounting
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Pythons
Bottom Line:
As other reviewers have pointed out, these tires are a b***h to mount. I'm running Mavic Crossmax wheels and had no problems whatsoever mounting the Pythons that came stock with the bike. I even contacted IRC to find out what the deal was. After some time, they responded are were appologetic for their product. Obviously, IRC failed to test their product prior to manufacture. I am so disatisfied with the tires that I'm buying another set of tubeless for an upcoming race. The time and effort it took to mount these tires (I haven't even tried to remove them yet) would cost you race!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Artur Nogueira
a Cross Country Rider
from Vila Nova da Telha, Maia, Portugal Date Reviewed: September 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Local shop
Strengths:
Great grip, great performance for pure XC riding - loose, hardpack, anything
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Mosquitos and Pythons from Hutchinson.
Bike Setup:
Merlin titanium, CrossMax wheels, Sram 9.0 SL group, Pace RC38 Air Force2 fork
Bottom Line:
I really do not understand why people much complained about the mounting of these tires. Sincerely, they are not worst than Hutchinsons and I guess that all UST tires are not an easy task to mount. Its a question of skill, more than strength. I mounted the pair in 10 minutes, without the need of any tool.
I use UST tyres since their beginning - back in 1999 - and to find successors for the excelent Mosquitos was not easy. The Mosquitos were and are so good that I thinked twice before I made the decision. Before UST mania, I used tires from IRC - the Myhtos XC - which were incredible tires. So that's why I decided to try the Serac's UST. They are very reliable, have extremely good grip either cornering or anywhere else, and they have lots of traction , specially good when climbing. So far I had no flats but I guess it is more luck rather than tecnnical development of the tyres themselves.Apparently they will not catch too much mud either due to the pattern of the thread. Will see that. All in all, very good tires
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy
a Racer
from SLC, UT, USA Date Reviewed: September 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$49.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
Tubeless Traction, Holds air pressure better than any other tubeless tires.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Scorpion UST, Panaracer UST
Bike Setup:
DBR SL Super, Stock + XTR Tubless wheelset
Bottom Line:
Tubeless tires rule. I am 205 lbs and have to run tube type tires at 60 psi to attempt to avoid pinch flats. Bikes handle and climb like crap at 60 psi! The thing I love most about these tires is that I never have to add air! With other tires I was constantly topping them off before every ride. They are a little snug going on, but if you are careful and have a good technique, it is really not that bad. The traction and handling are also top notch! Granted, there are a lot of great handling tubless tires on the market, but these are as good as the get. ******BOTTOM LINE****** These are the best tubeless tires on the market... period!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tahoe Gator
a Racer
from Princeton, NJ USA Date Reviewed: September 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Rim Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Fast rolling for a full knobby, sheds mud well, good traction, reasonably light, good flat resistance.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Pythons, Explorer Pro, Vertical Pro, Scorpion, Wildgripper (all in UST versions)
Bike Setup:
Intense Spider with 03 XTR tubeless wheelset
Bottom Line:
I wanted to submit this review to dispell the notion that these tires are difficult to install. I installed each as quickly as any other UST tire I have ridden. Granted, I used tire irons, but then again I always use tire irons to install or remove UST tires because I find that, without them, it is a rediculous struggle. I use them carefully and have never damaged a tire.
I picked these tires for a 100 mile bike race (Shenandoah 100) that has a lot of climbing and descending (14,000 feet) on sometimes loose and often wet conditions, so traction, especially for braking, was a must. Also needed fast rolling given the distance and fast connecting trail and road sections. The knobby configuration creates a fast center section for just that.
Ran them at 40 psi and no flats or problems. Good traction. Recommend them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: August 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Strengths:
Awesome traction in virtually all conditions.
Weaknesses:
A little hard to mount, but don't let these other numbskulls tell you the tires suck simply because of this.
Similar Products Used:
Pythons.
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar Pro Mavic X3.1 Tubeless Rims
Bottom Line:
Sure, they may be hard to get on, but once on these tires rock. Crank away with confidence-they'll probably only slip on slickrock. Otherwise, hookup is great. Adn this is with a 1.95 on the rear, I'm just waiting for it to wear out to grab a 2.1. Should offer even better traction.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa Bay, FL Date Reviewed: July 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$39.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
None~If you can't mount them with normal effort they have NO STRENGTHS
Weaknesses:
CHECK THE REVIEWS(I WISH THAT I HAD BELIEVED THEM) THESE TIRES ARE VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO MOUNT ON MAVIC CROSSMAX.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first set of UST tires.
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS-3
Bottom Line:
After an hour trying unsuccessfully to mount these tires onto a brand new set of Mavic Crossmax wheels, I am pissed off and sending them back to Performance. I used Armorall and then soapy water + alot of elbow grease. At this point, even if I did manage to pry them on, I dread the thought of having to make a trailside repair in the case of a flat.
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR~READ ALL OF THE REVIEWS AND DON'T BUY THESE TIRES~I SURE WISH THAT I HADN'T!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jim
a Racer
from mich Date Reviewed: July 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
most of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$33.00
Strengths:
strong, hold air verry well.
Weaknesses:
installing,
Similar Products Used:
first ust tire. fire pro xc
Bike Setup:
superlight x, ck iso hubs 3.1 rims
Bottom Line:
i really liked the tires when i was riding castlewood in st. louis during the spring. but now in michigan on hard pack i find the tires really slide around. the tires washed out on me a couple of times. any suggestions on a good hard pack tire? im not comfortable racing these tires. they are the 1.95's, maybe i should have bought the 2.1's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rearrango
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Date Reviewed: June 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
South Boundary
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Big-wheel.com
Strengths:
Traction Strong sidewalls Durable Price- check out big-wheel.com!
Weaknesses:
Incredibly tight bead- used metal tire levels to mount (which is a big no-no).
Great UST tire! The bead is close to impossible to mount, I lost skin from trying to roll them on with my hands, broke plastic tire levers, so I brought out my ol' metal ones and carefully pried them on. Splashed a little True Goo in them to seal them up and for thorn protection. The rear is starting to get a little thin after a year. These tires have been great!
I run them around 33 psi for everything (I weigh 170lbs). The sidewalls are a lot tougher than the Michelins (went through 4 in 9 months) through the rock gardens. Good traction for most riding, not the best in mud, but in the SW, not much of an issue. They brake well but seem to be better up front. A good UST trail XC tire. I've been really happy with the wear and traction.
I would be interested in trying the Nokian NBX UST, but haven't heard about them. Probably just get the Seracs again, since I know them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick Newman
a Racer
from Englewood,CO, USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Durability, Grip, Holds Air well
Weaknesses:
Mounting! Loose, tight singletrack
Similar Products Used:
All
Bike Setup:
Fisher Sugar
Bottom Line:
Well, I'm finally taking these off after three months, got a race coming up that I think I'll do better on with a semi-slick.
They've held up really well, while I've only raced them three times, I've also put another 300 miles on them in 3 months(spending too much time on road bike). No significant air leakage (no worse than tubes), No cuts, punctures, flats of any kind-- and I've ridden them from 25 to 45 psi. Spent a weekend in Fruita and rode 55 miles of singletrack -- no problem, and if you know Fruita, this is saying something.
Durable as hell, but the rear is wearing a bit, probably from my constant braking through the turns. The only time this tire lets me down is in the tight, loose singletrack (Colorado trail, near Buffalo Creek). The front tire tends to drift off line and I can't hold the corners.... Overall, though a great tire... Shouldn't be switching b/f a race, (knock on wood) but what the hell.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from Kirkland, WA. USA Date Reviewed: June 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The one that I am on!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
The installation was a breeze. Used the soapy water method then aired up with floor pump. Sealed up right away and held pressure.
Weaknesses:
None Yet
Similar Products Used:
Stan's sealant with regular tires
Bike Setup:
Cross Country
Bottom Line:
Fisrt ride today on the tires. The terrain was hardpack 5 miles up and 3 miles down. These tires hooked up really well and are stiff on acceleration. I rode them at 45 PSI.
Will provide another review after some more miles!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerry Bowers
a Cross Country Rider
from St George UT Date Reviewed: June 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
?
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good traction, lighter than most tubeless tires,
Weaknesses:
Hard to get on, seem to be wearing fast
Similar Products Used:
Python UST.
Bike Setup:
03 NRS
Bottom Line:
This tire has worked much better than the Python for me. With the Pythons I kept getting pinch flats(yes these are tubeless). These seem to have a stiffer sidewall which helps prevent pinch flats, but also gives a stiffer ride than the Python. They grip really well in loose and rocky stuff, but not quite as well on slickrock. All things considered I liked the soft ride and feel of the pythons better, but the pinch flats ruined them for me. These are excellent tires that proform well in varying conditions. 4 stars. minus 1 for the fast wear
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from Tracy, CA Date Reviewed: June 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Scaggs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
*Good Grip, better than Python(I had for ~1.4yrs) *Climbs better than my Python.(I had for ~1.4yrs) *Good on dry, dusty, Wet, sheds mud, *Big knobbies, so digs in deep on loose stuff and grips over wet rocks and roots. I don't have to depend so much on momentum to go over wet roots and rocks like I did with the pythons.
Weaknesses:
None. Yes, slightly difficult to put on in comparison to a Python tire, but do-able if use the proper technique.
Similar Products Used:
Pythons tubeless for over 1.4yrs
Bike Setup:
Y02 NRS1. 177lb rider Python front 35psi, ICR Serac Rear 37psi, 11.3mm front sag, 2mm rear sag(A must!) Answer Carbon 1" riser bars. Race Face (Good/Evil) grips LP Braids Jr Bar End Time Carbon peddles Stans latex for tubeless tires 2 chain links removed
Bottom Line:
Serac, Great for Rear tire! ========================================================= I just put the IRC SERAC on the rear (3months) and there is definitely more grip! The knobbies are bigger and dig in deeper so less slip, more grip and will grab over wet rocks and roots. And it rolls quick, slightly slower than the Python, but worth the gip. I read the reviews on the IRC SERAC and all the reviews on performace were good, better than any other tubeless tire. The only complaint was difficulty to put on. I let the tire sit in the sun for 1hr and put grease on 1/4 of the bead on one side that would be put onto the rim last so that it would slip on easily. With 2 plastic tire irons it went on. I do not think this tire will last 1.4yrs like my Python rear tire did. Serac looks like if will last 6-12months due to soft compound. So have to give it 4 chiis instead of 5 but still a great tire due to its grip and climb! Serac would be ok for front tire in my mind but it rolls slightly less than the Python and would wear faster than Python. So Python is a great choice for a front tire in my mind.
For the front, Python is a great tire! ========================================== Some people complain that it needs more side knobbies, but this is a race tire not a down hill tire. If you want to go down hill fast and turn, then weight the front tire with your body just like you would do motocycle riding. You can do this by leaning into the turn with your shoulder or putting your foot out over near the front tire. Leaning with your shoulder is best once you learn the technique and understand the angle limits of the tire. I have had the python on the front for 1.4yrs and still going strong without a flat! The roll is so fast, my friends bikes can't keep up if we roll down a hill together starting at the same speed.
********************************************************** So my setup is the Python on front for fast roll long life and the IRC SERAC on the rear for better traction and fast roll. This setup is great. Two tires that get great reviews in the correct locations of the bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frankie
a Racer
from Miami, Fl, USA Date Reviewed: May 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
performancebike.com
Strengths:
They grip and climb. Very aggressive tire. Mud and loose sand are no problems for these tires. A friend of mine actually thought I had turbo on my bike when I put these tires on and we went to a sandy park.
Weaknesses:
Pain in the @SS to mount on CrossMax. I had to mount them on a regular tube rim first and inflate an inner tube to 60psi for a week to try and stretch them out. Even with that I had to use a tire lever. I plan on cutting them off when I have to change them. They don't roll as fast as the Michelin Comp S but they will give them a run for their money.
Bike Setup:
Built up bike with XTR & XT components using a Giant NRS frame.
Bottom Line:
If IRC considers remodeling their product so that I can mount them easier I will buy another set if not I will look elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick Newman
a Racer
from Denver,CO,USA Date Reviewed: April 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Fairly lightweight, all - around tread design
Weaknesses:
Pain in the a$$ to get on, must use tire levers (not recommended by manufacturer) -- make sure and put 75-80 psi to get the bead to seal correctly, then let air out.
Similar Products Used:
First tubeless tires
Bike Setup:
Mavic Crossmax SL wheelset
Bottom Line:
I've been a big fan of IRC for years, this looks like another good product from them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BILL
a
from BUFORD, GA,USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
CHICOPEE WOODS
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
PRICEPOINT.COM
Strengths:
SHEDS MUD, CORNERS WELL, FAST, HOLDS AIR
Weaknesses:
NONE YET
Similar Products Used:
HUTCHESON MOSQUITO, KENDA KRISMA
Bike Setup:
GT ZASKAR RACE, FULL XTR, SID TEAM RL FORK.
Bottom Line:
USED TIRES FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A GAP SERIES RACE IN MUDDY CONDITIONS. THIS TIRE REALLY IMPRESSED ME BY LETTING ME CLIMB SOME STEEP MUDDY HILLS THAT I COULD NOT CLIMB IN SIMILAR CONDITIONS WHILE PRE-RIDING THE COURSE USING MY KENDA KARISMAS. BOTTOM LINE; I WON THE PREV RACE BY A MARGIN OF 1MIN 6SEC. I WON THIS RACE BY A MARGIN OF 15 MIN 17 SEC. THE TIRES DIDN'T DO IT ALL BUT THEY DEFINITLY HELPED.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anonymous Gerbil
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston Date Reviewed: January 12, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great traction for the type of riding I do. More importantly, holds air for a longer time.
Weaknesses:
None that I can think of - except may be weight. But these tires are supposedly one the lighter ones that you can get compared to other offerings
Similar Products Used:
None - first tubeless tires
Bottom Line:
May be the complaints people have had with trying to mount these have more to do with the rim than the tire. I have these mounted on Mavic X3.1 rims.
These are my first set of tubeless tire. I have heard horror stories of tubless tire not being able to hold their air overnight and having to fill them up every other day. But not with these tires. I go a whole week between having to refills - these tires hold their air very well. May be that's why people are complaining about difficulty mounting them - you gotta have a tight fit in order for them to hold air longer.
As for performance, I have been very happy with them. Type of trails I do are mostly singletrack - twisty, rooty and slightly rocky. Mostly flat, few climbing, but fast turns and switchbacks. I have been very happy with their performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jake
a Racer
from wienerville Date Reviewed: December 25, 2002
Very rare that i write a reveiw but when something pisses you off this bad you cant help it. I dont know how they ride because i cant get them on. hopefully i can get some dumbass to buy them on e-bay!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Olson
a Racer
from San Mateo Date Reviewed: December 9, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
Amazing grip in all off road conditions
Weaknesses:
a little slow rolling compared to other tubeless designs
Similar Products Used:
michelin comp s, hutchinson mosquito and python, wtb mutano raptor
Bike Setup:
soulcraft option 3, SID Race Carbon, King, XTR, light parts
Bottom Line:
these tires roll a little slow, but they stick like glue in all off road conditions, anywhere from loose gravel to wet mud. they are extremely predictable and very difficult to lock up the tires or power slide them around corners. The casing seems fairly durable as long as you keep enough air in them. I haven't flatted them yet but a friend of mine pinched a hole through a 1.95 rear with 30 psi on sharp rocks. I am totally sold on these tires as far as traction is concerned. It feels like you can just stand up and sprint without the rear tire breaking loose in virtually all types of soil. As far as being difficult to get them mounted, that is true, they were kind of hard to get on. But I'm always very gentle with the tire levers and I almost always put some kind of sealant in my tubeless setups and so far I've never had a problem getting or keeping them inflated. Maybe for Sea Otter I would try a semislick but for a real off road course these are definitely the ticket.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brendan
a Racer
from Quebec Date Reviewed: October 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Rigaud
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
VCH
Strengths:
Great tire fast rolling lots of grip Tubeless! Doesn't lose air at all. Cheap they don't cost much more than normal tires i payed 150 canadian for 2
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
No tubeless tires but lots onf tubes tires
Bike Setup:
2002 Cannondale F800
Bottom Line:
I usally don't wright reveiws here cause i'm lazy but i just have to when something this nice comes along. I had to get a new wheelset cause i folded over my front rim and my rear hub wasn't working very well. I was skeptical at first about tubeless from what everyone told me but i desided to just go for it. So i dropped alot of money on a new wheelset and these tires. I have to say mounting tubeless tires are just as easy as normal tire tube combo you can use tire levers everything is the same. All thats different is wetting the bead with soapy water first and you have to keep puting in air until the bead pops into place all along the tire.
When i rode these tires i noticed no more flats, I can climbs things faster and things i couldn't before they roll much smoother and way faster. They're also amazing on wet roots and rocks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Dutcher
a Cross Country Rider
from Lenexa, KS, USA Date Reviewed: September 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Landahl Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Great tread pattern that supplied ample traction.
Weaknesses:
Hard as crap to mount to rims!!!
Similar Products Used:
Nothing
Bike Setup:
Fisher Sugar 2, XTR/XT components, and some other good stuff.
Bottom Line:
Do not buy these tires. They suck for this only reason...too difficult to mount unless you use a tire lever. And tire levers and tubeless wheelsets don't mix very well. They supply great traction, but in the short time that I have used them I have noticed a lot of tread wear already. I would stick with Hutchinson or something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
FritzMan
a Racer
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: August 12, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Bill Larson
Strengths:
Great strength, good all-round traction, surprisingly little rolling resistance. Little noise, and good wear. Holds air very well.
This tire is now my favorite all-round performer. I previously had the same set of Pythons for 2 years without a flat (that includes ~400 per year of training/racing). Obviously the thread was getting a little thin, so I looked for a similar tire with better dry cornering traction, similar rolling resistance, and the same toughness (had earlier non-gray sidewall Pythons). I was also looking for a tire with better wet/soft handling characteristics. The biggest difference besides tread design is that the carcass is stiffer than the Pythons. Bad news is that the tires tend to be a little harsher, and bounce off obstacles. The positive is that the steering response is sharper and with a 2.1 volume they can handle rough rocky trails at 32psi with a 170 lbs rider. Cornering is much more aggressive and soft/wet traction is better. Probably where it gives up the most to Pythons is slick rock type of traction where the larger more spaced out knobbies will sometimes spin the tire a bit before hooking up (resulting in some drivetrain shock). I can't wait until the 1.95 comes out and save a little more weight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: May 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Summit
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Golsan Cycles
Strengths:
Good traction in loose and wet conditions, wears up well even in rocky terrain.
Weaknesses:
Absolute Bear to mount on Bontrager rims, it took about an hour with two mechanics. Could not get one to seal. I mounted a Michilin Comp S in less than one minute and sealed first try.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Karisma (best over all tubless trail tire), Michilin Jet S (very good race tire) Huthinson Python, (don't like at all).
Bike Setup:
Titus Riddler, XTR, X-Fly, BOntrager RAce Wheels.
Bottom Line:
Maybe with a CrossMax Wheel set it would mount better. I just pray that I never have to remove the tire on the trail or race course. I have never mounted a tire as tough as these. It handles the trail very nice in the loose and muddy, it rolles well on the flats. I don't think it is a great climbing tire, too heavy. Overall I think there are better tires, If I need a knobbier race tire I will run the Comp S, if I want a trail tire I will run the Karismas.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Valore
a Cross Country Rider
from Akron, OH Date Reviewed: May 4, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Ohio Bikes and Boards
Strengths:
Everything!
Weaknesses:
Extremely tight on my Crossroc rims... i dont think i'll ever get it off without levers, expecially out on the trail. May be scetchy on downhill under hard breaking due to directional tread
Similar Products Used:
IRC Claw Comp (RIP - Someone convince IRC to make them again!), IRC Mythos XC, Maxxis
Bike Setup:
'00 Jamis Diablo full suspension. Mavix Crossroc UST rims. Tires inflated to 50 PSI
Bottom Line:
I'll be the first to admit I'm not a big fan of directional tires... i like the same control and traction cranking hard up a hill as i do braking hard down a hill, so naturally i was skeptical. Well, today was my first ride on my new Serac UST's, and i didnt plan on riding hard, just some easy towpath/road riding, so i inflated them to about 50 psi. Well, of course I ended up in teh mud, like so many of my 'easy' rides do, and these tires rocked! Even running high PSI I had very minimal slippage climbing a sloppy slick muddy hill. Downhill in the same sloppy mud they were very controlled, not very squirly. On the pavement and hardpack, they have a pretty low rolling resistance and feel fast. After climbing the muddy hill and barely slipping the tire, i was all smiles. Overall, i love these things! Plus, they are one of the lighter UST tires on the market right now. The only issue I really had was they were extremely tight on my rims... i used levers to install it because i was about to rip all the skin off my thumbs! If i get a flat on the trail I doubt I'll be able to ge them off, but who knows. I was skeptical of the directional, and not very aggresive looking tred, but I couldnt be more pleased. IRC has made a beleiver of me! (I'd STILL like a set of IRC Claw Comps for my non-UST bike! Start producing them again IRC! do it! i order you!!!) Yeah, they deserve all 5 chilis. I'd like a lower price, but they are in the same range as all the other UST tires right now, so what can you do...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles Coker
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: April 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything with lots of rocks/drops
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
hammerheadbikes
Strengths:
reviewing non UST version with a twist: ran with Stan's sealant
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
you name it
Bike Setup:
Hammerhead 100X
Bottom Line:
Just one real ride on one today, on the front stuck VERY well in rocky singletrack, mainly hardpack with loose rocks, not much gravel over hardpack (City Park in Austin)
worked well enough I want to try the UST versions as I really was just testing the tread pattern becuase the UST versions are finally out
btw, Stan's new rimstrip setup works..
Charles Hammerheadbikes.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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