High air volume design helps prevents pich flats and provides optimum comfort. Gold Technology features excellent grip during slippery cornering. Uses combination Silica and Carbon ruber compound.
Submitted by
Myles
a Cross Country Rider
from Victoria, Australia Date Reviewed: January 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Manly Dam
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
cyclepath australia
Strengths:
Awesome on dry track, look awesome and low resistance (high speeds)
Weaknesses:
Horrible on wet because tread isn't compensating. Just skids all over the place in mud and on slippery rocks. Tread wears down to a slick in no time at all. Octopus is a better bet. You might as well buy hutchinson top slick
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson octopus
Bike Setup:
shimano deore xt everything, truvativ cranks, hayes nine discs.
Bottom Line:
Great tire for dry conditions, low profile tread really helps with fast speed and resistance levels. only ride on relatively flat stuff in wet/damp conditions as traction is severly hampered. My experience was (even with disc brakes) that I was skidding down rocks rather than braking in control. longetivity is a big question, and at $40US a tire, value isn't great. Bottom line, check the weather before riding on these treads!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry White
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: January 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
McDowell
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$32.00
Purchased At:
Jenson or Price Point (?)
Strengths:
Works great with Stans on a standard rim Rolls well, pretty durable
Weaknesses:
not so hot in loose rock or gravel, heavier than fire XCs or Explorers, more expensive than fire XCs
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer fire xc, Conti. explorers
Bike Setup:
Jekyll with Pushed shock
Bottom Line:
I bought these because they were supposed to run well tubless with sealant and I had flatted in two MBAA races. They sealed well and have never even burped. At first I thought they had lousy traction until I lowered the pressure to 25 psi. Now they hook up almost as well as the Fire XCs they replaced, and they're very predictable cornering. I may get another set of these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Gangi
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: January 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anyone I am riding on
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Varoius
Strengths:
One of the best tires in hardpack, roll fast, look cool, durable
Weaknesses:
One of the worst tires in everything else, wears quickly
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC, misc WTB, Bontrager Jones
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS Air, Trek 8000 (had them on both)
Bottom Line:
Pythons roll fast and work very well in hardpack (i.e. NO loose stuff). I've raced these tires on some fast courses and they did great for me. They track predictably, stick pretty well in turns, and give just enough on turns to let you know their breaking point (versus some other tires that just give way). This is all due to the design -- the tread is very "round" (small shoulder).
But on anything else...forget it. The Pythons design is both a blessing and a curse. Those small knobs that roll fast don't bite worth a damn in anything loose. They also give way quickly when climbing rocks and roots. I never tried running these wet. My guess is they would be horrible.
The other downfall is the tread wears quickly. However, these tires are very durable. I've smashed them all over the Arizona desert and have never ripped up a sidewall or knobby. That's pretty impressive considering all the other tires I have shredded here.
As a hardpack race tire, I give the Hutchinson's 4 stars. For this they are very good. As an anything else tire, I give them 2 stars, particularly for their poor performance in anything remotely loose.
So I guess I will give the tire an overall rating of 3 stars. Bottom line is that I think there are other tires that are as good for racing that handle the changing conditions a little better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathon Hartman
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio, Tx, USA Date Reviewed: May 6, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere there is Dirt
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Bike World
Strengths:
Looks, Speed, Grip, and Weight.
Weaknesses:
Tire is loose on leaves and other debris on the trail, but other than that... I can't find many.
Similar Products Used:
Bontranger Jones AC
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher
Bottom Line:
I upgraded to these tires after chewing up my Bontrangers. After 150+ miles on these tires in less than 3 months I must say I'm rather happy. I've read the other reviews and I can't comment on mud conditions. The tread design gives great response although can be a little loose if you hit a trail over run with fresh leaves. My only grip on this tire is while riding they seem to throw dirt onto the rider. Now, if that is the only thing I can complain about they must be pretty good. I give this bad boy 5 flamin' ones right off the bat until I can find more bad to say.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jules webmaster
a Racer
from huixquilucan Date Reviewed: May 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
San Lorenzo
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
store
Strengths:
best balance between grip, rolling resistance and reliability in dry terrain, best tires 4 racing!!!
Weaknesses:
the ugly "gold" stripe, because in reality is more like brown. a brighter color there would look nice.
Similar Products Used:
comp s light, jet s, xl s, notos, mythos, larsen mimo and TT, mainly XC race tires
I´m a tire freak, after 4 years of succesful XC racing, i´ve tried many tires. The Python gold elite is the winner!!, rolls smooth like a semislick, sticks to the ground like a DH tire, and is super tough, performance is best at low psi, i´m 140 lbs, i ride from 29-32 psi. I have a set on my training bike that is 3 yers ols and still performing well, and a new set on my race bike. When the terrain is dry hardpack to a little loose and maybe even a little wet, performance is outstanding. Handle rocks great too. Do not use in deep mud, but still even ok. The only tire that could come close to this baby is the Michelin comp s light, that can handle mud much better than the python, but still, "lite" tires in my terrain don´t give me confidence, and whenever i run other good tires i feel like there´s something missing, put the pythons back and i feel right at home. As a review posted somewhere here, my xc team rides pythons, my friends ride pythons, and i ride pythons. I have nothing bad 2 say about them other than the brown stripe looks ugly. i feel tempted to try out the "air light" version, but my terrain is very rough, so i´m not sure. To me, this is the perfect tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Date Reviewed: January 28, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
hmm... that funky gold colour?
Weaknesses:
lack of grip and spending fortunes on new inner tubes and patch kits
Similar Products Used:
conti explorers, jones AC, IRC, tiogas...etc
Bike Setup:
klein palomino, hope m4s, chris king headset, pace rc40
Bottom Line:
i have tried and tried to give these tyres a fair chance, and every time i have been let down by their performance. if you have any conditions other than extreme hard pack or asphalt find another tyre.
riding in sand is not possible, riding in the wet is so dangerous you might as well take the tires off and just run rims (you might get better traction).
these tyres are always on special because you will need that money to buy the 10 inner tubes per ride. i pump mine upto 45psi and the first pebble i hit and i get a pinch flat.
i have just switched to nokian nbx2.1 and it just makes me realise how bad the pythons where.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: October 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
50 Year trail system
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Performance on sale
Strengths:
fast on hard pack or pavement
Weaknesses:
slick climbing rocks or waterbars. sidewall tear
Similar Products Used:
mosquitos, IRC, GEAX, Panaracers etc etc
Bottom Line:
Bottom line: Tore the sidewall on first ride. nuff said.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fabian
a
from Ciudad Juarez, Chih. Mex Date Reviewed: October 4, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$19.00
Strengths:
Excellent dry specific titre.
Weaknesses:
wears fast
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSRxc
Bottom Line:
Fast tire, light, good for dry weather. Does not last long.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Pasadena, CA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Strengths:
Decent tread life, decent traction, high volume, strong casing.
Weaknesses:
Side knobs tear quickly.
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel w/ 105mm Marzocchi front shock
Bottom Line:
Southern California riding changes significantly depending on the season and riding area. Hardpack, rocky, loose gravel, sand, etc. are all quite common. These tires have very good traction, excellent sidewall strength (no sidewall tears - riding some of the high iron-content trails shreds most tires), and perform quite well in most conditions. These tires do NOT perform well in mud due to small tread spacing. I actually initially purchased these tires since the rear end of my bike was washing out after the front end on super loose trails (2+ inches of loose gravel/dust). Hoping to lose the rear end first and allow the bike to hook back up without low-siding, I went with a low tread profile for the rear tire (Python Gold). At the recommended inflation pressure (or 1-2 lbs lower), they have decent traction even in very loose terrain. Overinflated, they are worthless except on hardpack or pavement. I have not ridden this tire on the front - and would only run it on the front on 1)slickrock or 2)pavement - even hardpack would be pushing it... Value rating is based on tire sale price of <$20.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Rhodes
a Cross Country Rider
from Tempe Date Reviewed: August 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
South Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, looks cool
Weaknesses:
Slides everywhere
Similar Products Used:
IRC Piranha Pro Continental Escape and Explorer
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur with stock components cannibalized from a Jamis Dakar
Bottom Line:
Ok, if you want a tire thats good on hard pack or dry pavement, i'm sure these tires are fine. Where I ride, which is mostly loose rock and sugar sand and rock quarries, these tires have me sliding more that if I was as at a Six Flags water park! Cornering on sand is truely an adventure. You just can't tell when it's going to lose it's grip. After riding on Conti's, these tires make you second guess yourself on cornering and ascents.
Stopping on the trail gives a whole new meaning to planning ahead. At a slight decent, not fast at all, I had to stop for a rider coming up the hill. I slide so far that I passed him and went off the trail. I was so frustrated, I actually measured how far I skidded...25 feet. Unacceptable at the speed I was going.
I shouldn't bash on these tires too much because I'm sure they work on harder surfaces just fine, but if your in AZ and your on these tires, find something with more knobs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steveo
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: August 16, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Super volume for xc tire, light, fast rolling
Weaknesses:
a little slick cornering
Similar Products Used:
many but recently fire xc's
Bike Setup:
litespeed, marzocchi, sram, cane creek wheels
Bottom Line:
Had these for a solid season and loved them, but really couldn't run at the pressure I wanted because of pinch flats (35psi). Went to Stans NO tubes and absolutely love these tires. When running at low pressures they're great. I ride at least 50% on wet trails (life in PA)many roots, many rocks, mud. They have a low tread profile so really don't pack up a lot and when they do, clean easy. The volume is super for running low pressure, especially with a hardtail. They can slide up front in corners, but it's predictable. I've run other tires with much more bite, but haven't found a tire with as much upside as these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Gangi
a Racer
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: July 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Anyone I am riding on...
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Various places
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, grip on hardpack, grip on rocks, grip on loose dirt, durable as hell, very resistant to pinch flats
Weaknesses:
Grip on loose gravel/sand, wears a little fast
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones, Panaracer Fire, various WTB's
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS Air, Trek 8000
Bottom Line:
These are fantastic XC tires in the hardpack - probably the best on the market. I've raced 2 NORBA races and a 24-hour race in the desert on these tires and they were perfect for the job. They have fantastic grip in the hardpack and corner very well. These tires do not suddenly wash out on you -- they lose grip gradually, telling you to back off. And when the tread starts to show a little wear, these tires still grip like mad (unlike others where the smallest amount of treadwear results in a huge loss of traction).
These are NOT mud/wet tires, so if you live in an area where it is wet, don't buy them (duh). These tires do not have a deep tread, so if you live in area with lots of loose gravel or sand, don't buy them (duh). It's plain and simple folks - there is no 1 tire that can handle hardpack, mud, water, sand, and gravel. Choose the right tire for the right job.
Regarding durability - I have no clue what the other reviewers have against this tire, but I ride Pythons...my friends ride Pythons...many other rides in the area have Pythons...all with success in the BRUTAL Arizona desert. These are one of the few tires that can take a beating on the rocks and nasty terrain we have in Phoenix without tearing apart at the sidewall. These are durable tires, plain and simple (127tpi casing is far stronger than almost any other tire).
Lastly, regarding the dreaded pinch flat -- the 127tpi casing also helps fight pinch flats. I have yet to pinch flat on these tires and I am a very aggressive rider.
The only downside to these tires is that they, like ALL tires of similar design (lots of soft small knobbies), wear fast. The outside knobbies actually have held up quite well -- it's the center set of knobbies that have worn flat. I have had my current set of tires for 6 months and the rear tire is toast.
Bottom line - if you ride in hardpack and want a fast rolling tire, get these. Plus, you can find them for sale at Performance or Supergo on a regular basis.
4 flaming chilis overall. Only a "perfect" tire should get 5 chilis, and in my mind there is no such thing yet. 5 flaming chilis for value if you get 'em on sale.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tony p
a Weekend Warrior
from grafton, MA Date Reviewed: July 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
vietnam
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint i think... i forget
Strengths:
low rolling resistance, great on hardpack, don't weigh too much
Weaknesses:
sucks in anything remotely wet
Similar Products Used:
lots of other XC tires
Bottom Line:
these are the sweetest tire if you are gonna be riding hard pack XC on a fairly high PSI with narrow rims. Otherwise... don't bother. i have syncros big box alligator rims... i forget the width... i think they are are at least 28 mm. i get pinch flats all of the time. one thing i noticed is that in anything that is wet at all they clog up like mad and you have no traction. they don't shed it well either.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bernie
a Cross Country Rider
from Reading, PA Date Reviewed: July 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Blue Marsh
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
ok on hard pack. low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
everything else. No side hold when going around turns, especially dangerous in the front. Don't use them when you ride when it's anything other than bone dry. Punctures easy - lot of flats
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC and schwalbe racing ralph(excellent products); maxxis semislick - almost better then the Hutchinson Python Gold
Bike Setup:
bergwerk faunus carbon fiber, fox f100x, roox xc racing stem+ bar, everything xt,hope mini disks, easton seatpost, 317 disk wheels.
Bottom Line:
dont' buy it if you ever intent to ride in wet conditions. poor traction in the rear, dangerous in the front (I actually feel safer with my semi slicks, since the knobs on the side, which the python doesn't have.) Punctures easy. That's why they are on sale on every website, because nobody wants them!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod Munch
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Rosa CA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Silica rubber compound, large air volume, smooth ride
Weaknesses:
Not the best for my local conditions- dusty hardpack to loose & rocky
Similar Products Used:
Lots and lots of tires over the last 15 years
Bike Setup:
K2 Razorback, XT & Race Face
Bottom Line:
I like the silica tread compound of the Gold Series (I put some Scorpions on my girlfriend's bike) and wanted to try out some of the trendy low-profile knobbies. When Performance had a sale, I jumped. The combination of lower pressures with small knobs was an interesting change from my usual Mythos K's at 48 psi or so. The tires climb great, roll smooth with large air volume, and right when I was thinking "nice tire," I spun out on a rocky ledge climb. Can't remember the last time I spun out on my FS bike with Mythos, Fires, Roll-X's, Tioga Factories, etc. On loamy dirt, or for fast, sketchy training or racing, these tires may be the bomb. But despite the low pressure setup they're too loose for my XC riding. I like the WTB Nanoraptors (a similar micro-knobby) better since they have larger, more dependable cornering knobs. Chilis for good construction & rubber, a tire for a specific purpose.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Hamilton
a Weekend Warrior
from Ran Santa Marg, CA Date Reviewed: May 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Aliso/ Wood Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance on hard packed.
Weaknesses:
Traction on loss soil and rocky terrain.
Similar Products Used:
Serac XC, Fire Pro XC
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper FSR, hayes disc, Duke XC Air, and various upgrades
Bottom Line:
For hard packed this is an excellent tire. Has low rolling resistance and good traction. On loose terrain, mud, and rocks- is does not fair as well. If your looking for a hard packed tire- I would recommend it. If you're running on softer terrain, I would go else were. (The Python is not a all condition tire by any means.)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Giese
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: April 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Sunset -Mt.Elden baby!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar?
Strengths:
Amazing low rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
Terrible durability! Terrible mud/rock traction.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Primal Raptor
Bike Setup:
Haro V-4
Bottom Line:
I had bad luck with this tire. It started falling apart within a few months after I got it. About 6 months later I started getting pinch flats one after the other, and one finally put a gash in it. I rode a lot on the roads, so that might have done it in. This tire might be good for a bike you will only ride on hardpack. Got it on sale, but retail seemed expensive as hell. $44 I think.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kayu
a Weekend Warrior
from Penang, Malaysia Date Reviewed: March 14, 2004
Favorite Trail:
K3, 168
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$42.00
Purchased At:
Chin Aik
Strengths:
Quiet. Gold color is nice.
Weaknesses:
It demage the inner tube. Maybe tyres are too soft and causing the inner tube moved.
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS XTC XTR V-Brake M960 XTR RD-M960 XTR Cassette M-950Ti XTR Rapidfire M-952 XT FD-M750 Easton EA-70 STEM RockShox SID Team TruVative Stylo Team Crankset XTR Front Hubs HB-M950 XTR Rear Hubs FH-M950 Mavic X221 Rim
Bottom Line:
Used Hutchinson Pyton Gold Elite for only 4 times and get into trouble for 3 times. Riding road condition is only tar road uphill but damage happend when downhill. These 3 times causing me 5 flat cases. All damages caused by broken inner tube at the joining part of the tube and tip head. 1st time using this tyre to K3 without spare tube, got into trouble after 200 meters of downhill. Rear wheel flat. Push for 4km before I met someone who carried spare tube with him. 2nd time using the tyre to 47, Rear wheel flat twice! Including the spare, ended up pushing for 2 km to get my car. 3rd time using the tyre to 168. Got into big trouble when the front tyre gets flat. Very lucky there was a bike in front forcing me to slow down just before it gets punctured, what a lucky escape. Normally at the area, the downhill speed is average 45km/h. After changing the front tube, the real wheel got flat.... All above are having the same problem, joining part of the tube and tip broken. I have checked the air pressure, used additional tape to filter the rims and it just does't help. Can anyone tell me why and give some suggestion? I became the expert of changing tube now but I've lost the riding pleasure when go downhill. I have to put the lowest chili as these tyres are expensive, and I'm glad that I still able to give review after the front wheel flat during downhill.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Weekend Warrior
from Norfolk, NE USA Date Reviewed: December 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
E-Bay
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, weight, looks
Weaknesses:
They aren't real good in anything loose but they aren't supposed to be.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Smoke/Dart, lots of others
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC SE1, not too far from stock
Bottom Line:
Great tire for racing or riding in the dry hard pack stuff. I have tried it in soft bermed turns and was surprised how long they kept traction before washing out. I really like them for all around use but am putting on some Scorpions for something with a little more bite. I will most likely swap the two back and forth and with the Smoke/Dart to have a complete array of tire choices.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hondo
a Cross Country Rider
from Morrison, Colorado, USA Date Reviewed: November 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Colorado Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Tracks well in rocky or loose dry conditions
Weaknesses:
Wear out quickly
Similar Products Used:
You name it
Bike Setup:
FSR LTD XTR
Bottom Line:
I love these tires. They really work well on the front range trails here in Colorado. Of course all of these trails are currently very dry and loose, and rocky areas are slick with fine dust. In the rare moments that I have encountered mud, they tended to slip and slide (but hey, look at them, they are obviously not designed for mud). But climbing on normal Colorado conditions is where these tires really excell. Although they wear out quickly, they seem to improve their climbing characteristics with wear. This may be all in my head or maybe they just are making better contact with the surface as the tread wears away.(friction baby). Don't buy these if you ride in muddy conditions. They would be a perfect tire for Moab though, low rolling resistance and great traction on rock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Cross Country Rider
from logan, utah Date Reviewed: October 24, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Strengths:
These are quite possibly the best tires ever for hardpack, dry conditions! They corner like they're on rails and they are fast as hell, great cornering under hard braking conditions.
Weaknesses:
None - if used for their intended purpose.
Bottom Line:
These tires are great in dry - to tacky trail conditions. Here in utah where it doesn't rain much at all in the summer they are great! I surely wouldn't want to use them in the Northwest. If you can find them on sale they are worth every penny!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andthereyouare
a Cross Country Rider
from Bear, DE Date Reviewed: September 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
...
Strengths:
No flats ever!!!! A good conversation piece due to the "Yellow" color. Fast as hell on dry hard surfaces.
Weaknesses:
Say no to mud and wet conditions. Climbing was very good either.
This is a fast, no flat, hard dry surface monster of a tire. The yellow is a little wacky. But I never had a flat with these tires ever. Traction in Mud is a problem and even climbing up serious trails I had spin problems. Which is why I switched to Fire XC Pros. But if your a downhiller I would totally recommend this tires.
They are extremely fast.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
WD
a Cross Country Rider
from Lubbock,TX Date Reviewed: August 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Rim Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Fast, Low rolling Resitance.
Weaknesses:
Mud, Loose Sand
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptors, Michelin Wildgrippers
Bike Setup:
Fisher Paragon (Stock)
Bottom Line:
The Hutchinson Python is a very fast tire that can get a little loose in mud or loose sand. Does well in dry hard-pack and rocky conditions, and can be considered a reliable climber. Bottom Line: If you are a sport racer that rides in dry hard-pack conditions, this tire is an excellent choice. If you ride in wet conditions with technical descents, look elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christian
a Cross Country Rider
from Berkeley Date Reviewed: July 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Pauley Creek, Downieville CA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
performance mail order
Strengths:
rolls fast, on harpack dirt. pinch flat resistant
Weaknesses:
not much traction on climbing nor cornering yello looks funny
Similar Products Used:
irc claw comp lite (the best). michelin wildgripper.
Bike Setup:
kona lavadome (steel hardtail). marzocchi mx comp w/eta
Bottom Line:
not much traction on climbing nor cornering -- they're slippery. they're fast when the going is easy, but not good enough when the going gets tough.
sucks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Gillett
a Cross Country Rider
from Wiltshire, England Date Reviewed: July 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Cherhill Downs
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
Mitchell Cycles
Strengths:
Fantastic Looks and quick
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Xc Pro's, Mich Sprints, Tioga Xc's etc,etc,etc
Bike Setup:
Sugar 1 and 3 mix
Bottom Line:
I spent literally hours looking at this web site and past mountain bike mags in order to find the ideal tyre, "for me", as having had tried "everyone elses" favourite tyres like the Xc Pro i wanted a tyre that matched the type of riding i do, it's early days yet but going on current form I'd say I made the right decision, below are my marks out of 10 for surfaces I've ridden on with the Python.
Gravel/single track 10 Tarmac 8 Climbing 7 Descending 10 Grass 7 Mud / wet surface N/A (No rain for ages)
Surprisingly it's slighty noisey on tarmac and the tyres do love to throw stone chips at the frame, apart from that it's a top tyre.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd Bennett
a Cross Country Rider
from upstate ny Date Reviewed: June 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
thompson park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
blue cat cycles
Strengths:
weight, performance, speed, cool colors
Weaknesses:
tricky to mount on rims,
Similar Products Used:
firexc pro, specialized master and control pro
Bike Setup:
turner 02,xtr
Bottom Line:
this set of tires made me instantly faster, climb better, roll easier, and ride better. I am now 1-2 gears faster everywhere. Where my specialized and firexc would spin and lose traction these don't. I love them
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ready Teddy
a Racer
from North Texas Date Reviewed: May 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Flat Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$29.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Weight, Cornering Grip, Longevity, Low Rolling Resistance
Weaknesses:
Little weak in the sidewall, but hey I wanted lightweight
Similar Products Used:
IRC, Michalin, Panaracer, Geax
Bike Setup:
F3000 & Jekyll, Both Cannondale, Both XTR, and Both Running Stan's NO-Tubes!
Bottom Line:
Very light, fast tire. We have been running Stans in Python Golds and Airlights for over two years. The F3000 has had the same Stan's set up in the same tire set for over a year. These tires Rock! and I haven't had the issues with Mud. The more balloon shape of the Pythons caus it to float more on top of the Texas clay mud as compared to the mud shedding mosquito's that tend to sink in and get stuck. These have been our all around Racing tire. It has been Good Not to have to change them for conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JP
a Racer
from Noho, Ma Date Reviewed: April 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Rolls fast Hooks up well Good cornering grip
Weaknesses:
Good in all conditions except very muddy, steep uphills.
Similar Products Used:
Too many to list
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth truth, XTR, avid disc
Bottom Line:
Great all around tires. I'm riding a gear or two higher than with full knobbys. Rolls fast, but still inspires confidence with respect to grip. The only times I've noticed a deficit is in very muddy, steep uphills. It's not like they're horrible, but you do have to pay extra attention about retaining grip. I'm impressed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Chunan, Korea Date Reviewed: April 7, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
I bought these tires because they seemed to be getting pretty good reviews, but have found that they're not any good for the conditions we have out here.
I'll start by saying that these tires seem to have a very supple casing that feels good while riding. Also, the tires have very low rolling resistance. And while that may be great for riding on the street or on nice, firm (maybe slightly damp) hardpack, the tires seem to be restricted to those two narrow conditions.
As mentioned in previous reviews, in muddy conditions, the narrow spacing between lugs on the tires accumulate mud, resulting in pretty much zero traction. The same applies to snow. The low profile lugs also provide little to no traction over leaves (wet or dry), mildly loose-rocky conditions, and sandy areas. The tires had a tendency to wash out or lock-up very easily, providing a very sketchy ride. Also, the tire seems to wear very quickly.
That said, if your riding is limited to riding on asphalt or firm hardpack, these tires are great. They provide good grip and a very supple ride. But in most of the conditions that I ride in, the tires are a poor choice.
I based my overall rating on the performance of the tire on hardpack soil.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Downey
a Cross Country Rider
from Norfolk, NE USA Date Reviewed: March 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Yellowbanks
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, ride, traction
Weaknesses:
Punture resistance?
Similar Products Used:
Panarace Smoke/Dart
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC SE1
Bottom Line:
Good tires, great on hard pack. I like them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Central Florida Date Reviewed: March 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Santos
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Pro shop
Strengths:
Cool Looking.
Weaknesses:
Too large for my cannondale.The tires grow!
Similar Products Used:
IRC Notos
Bottom Line:
I mounted a set on my super-v,with enough clearence,and the next day the rear tire rubbed badly. I have ridden the bike with the enduro pro as a front. It works okay. A cheap IRC Notos does make a pretty good rear however.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dompedro3
a
from boston, ma Date Reviewed: March 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
fells
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
looks cool, rolls fast, very very fast...does very well on rocks
Weaknesses:
anything with moisture...
Similar Products Used:
alligator, mosquito, scorpion, velociraptor
Bike Setup:
gt custom hardtail, marzocchi, raceface, titec stem, cane creek wheels
Bottom Line:
These tires are some of the fastest ive ever ridden. Unfortunately this environment isnt ideally suited for them. Here in new england the ground gets wet quite a bit and wet ground means mud. These tires gum up and become pretty much useless in wet dirt (note: not only mud, but also loose, kind of wet ground). in hardpack, these tires will put you out way in front of everyone else, but if its little wet, watch out. These tires also fare pretty terribly over wet roots (what tires dont), but i wont hold that against them. So far i have had no pinch flats and the tread seems to be wearing very well. High value for speed per buck, but only a 4 for their difficulties in water
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Teo
a Cross Country Rider
from Pacoima Date Reviewed: January 24, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
Only a hardpack tire
Bike Setup:
Fuel 100, SID, XTR & Crossmax
Bottom Line:
I love these tires. I would not use anything else. These tires work perfect for the type of riding that I do and for the type of terrain that I ride in, mostly hardpack. They corner exceptionally well. I didn't experience any washouts until the tire was well worn. These tires do however have their limitations. I used them for a trip to the North Rhim of the Grand Canyon and they were absolutly the wrong tires to use. The trails were mostly loose gravel. These tires did very poorly on climbs in this terrain. But because my normal riding is done on harpack in the Santa Monica Mountains this is the best tire for the job. I strongly recomend these if you ride on hardpack.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee Kline
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa Date Reviewed: January 24, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
p.p.
Strengths:
looks rolling resistance predictability wear
Weaknesses:
not extreme enough in some circumstances
Similar Products Used:
cont. michelins
Bike Setup:
specialized fsr
Bottom Line:
Have used these tires for a while now and have to say that for about 85% of the time they are great for the florida trails. They hook up great on hardpack no surprise there, corner pretty well, not great, won't suprise you suddenly when riding and actually are not that bad in mud. These tires roll fast so speed is not an issue braking on the other hand is. The trails in fl. are quite aggressive, steep, lose, quick, technical, technical and technical if you don't believe me come down and see. You say fl. is flat yeah right. These tires for a few select trails in the area just don't give enough traction or braking power, but you do fly like hell down the hill. I primarly use these for non-extreme rides and or trips up north like in Ga or NC (tsali & pisgah there is no better tire). They rock there. So if you primarly ride hardpack and don't do the scare the sh** out of you which we have here then they are great, if not go w/ a more aggressive tread pattern so you have more stable control.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Hilty
a
from Calgary, AB Date Reviewed: November 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
-low rolling resistance on hard pack trails -quite a universal tire -stick to most trail conditions, especially when dry -lose traction on wet stuff like roots but still pretty good -cool look with the yellow sidewall
Weaknesses:
- suck on pavement (terrible rolling resistance) - forget them in mud more than 1/2 deep - they are not designed for wet and muddy conditions
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Dart/Smoke, Ritchey's, WTB Velociraptors, Specialized Team Comp, IRC Pirhana
Bike Setup:
Dean Hardtail, XTR & XT components, Sun Rhino Lite rims, etc
Bottom Line:
I got these tires because of the reviews and they were on sale. I also knew they had to be European as they know something about tire compounds the others don't know. And they haven't disapponted me at all. I took part in 2 24Hours of Adrenalin races and no problems. Held up very well even when the weather turned sour on us and it started to rain. As mentioned as long as the mud is not to deep and you can clean the tires out in water puddles they perform like magic. Stick to dry trails like glue even on roots. Better than the Velociraptors I used before, or even the IRC Pirhana. My last ride was in first snow conditions and even there I was pleasantly surprised with their perfomance. As long as there is some harder surface below they are great. Don't use them as mud or snow tires though, there are better ones out there. Highly recommended for dry fire roads, dry hard pack and roots. If you ever have to hit pavement with them don't be surprised they are really slow.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al Chalabi
a Cross Country Rider
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: November 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Tai Mo Shan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$36.00
Purchased At:
Friendly Bike Shop, Lantau
Strengths:
- provides a more comfortable ride than other tires - if you ride in different conditions and only want one tire on your bike, this is the one - don't know if this is luck, but I have had hardly any pinch flats since I switched to this tire - good grip going up tough sections
The Python Gold is a little heavier than its cousin, the Python Light, but the extra weight is worth it if you want better durability. I used to have the Python Lights and one of them lasted less than a month before the side wall split causing the inner tube to poke through. The Lights are great for competitive riding and if you can afford to change your tire frequently. I haven't found a better all terrain tire for a mountain bike than the Gold and I'm sticking with these babies until I go tubless!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stink E. Minx
a Cross Country Rider
from New Rochelle, NY Date Reviewed: October 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
great grip in all conditions
Weaknesses:
none that i can see
Similar Products Used:
Intense CC 2.25", Continental Explorer Pro
Bike Setup:
2002 Giant NRS 1, rs duke sl, hutch python gold
Bottom Line:
Awesome tire. Rode in just about every condition today; grass, rocks, sand, hardpack dirt, roots, leaves, mud, water and pavement and it performed beautifully. I was a little scared going with only a 2 inch tire since i was riding a 2.35 for a long time, but these tires make up for it. Beautiful look too. Get 'em, they'll make you happy and fast
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Wood
a Cross Country Rider
from Va.Beach Date Reviewed: September 27, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Douthat State Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Rolling Resistance
Weaknesses:
Sketchy,Weak Sidewalls,Side Lugs Not Aggressive Enough
Similar Products Used:
None, Unique tread design. Because no one else would use it.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale M500, Nothing Stock
Bottom Line:
Based on all the great reviews I bought these tires. They have horrible braking. Good cornering my !@#ss, if I continued to use these tires I'd definently be KILLED as they have NO warning when there going to let loose. Buy theses tires if you do alot of flat non technical riding because they roll well but that is about it. They don't do well on hills or corners because the tread pattern is too tight and they load up. I have the Air light 2.0 AND the Gold 2.0
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
D Dubya
a Cross Country Rider
from Sterling Hts, Mi Date Reviewed: September 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Poto
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Rolling Resistance, Cornering, excellent ride. NO pinch flats!
Weaknesses:
Wear
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptor
Bike Setup:
99 Big Sur, Duke Race fork, Python Gold Tires
Bottom Line:
These tires are fast and comfortable at low pressures. A definite upgrade from my velociraptors. They worked well in everything here in Michigan where it's mostly hardpack trails with roots and rocks, but when I went to the Ozark Mountains for vacation they struggled in the wet stuff. I havent had a pinch since I bought these and Im running lightweight tubes at 30psi!!! (Banged it HARD off a wood bridge today and couldnt believe it didnt pinch!)Great performance but 300 miles later, it's time to buy new. Im not upset by that b/c I was so much faster and reliable this summer.
Great for reliability and hard singletrack, even climbs in sand, dont expect much in the mud and wet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TRISTAN THOMPSON
a Cross Country Rider
from DARTMOOR, ENGLAND Date Reviewed: August 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
DOUBLE WATERS
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
WON THEM RACING
Strengths:
NO PITCH PUNCHURES,FAST VERY FAST.
Weaknesses:
WEAR
Similar Products Used:
PANARACER TRAILBLASTERS/XC PRO.
Bike Setup:
DAVE HINDE M3 FRAME, DUKE RACE FORKS, ETC.
Bottom Line:
COMPARED TO SIMILAR PRODUCTS THESE ARE THE BEST FOR SUMMER,COMFORTABLE OVER LONG DISTANCE HAV'NT PUNCHURED YET TOUCH WOOD.THESE BEAUTYS ARE VERY FAST IDEAL FOR RACING.ON TARMAC THEY WEAR QUICK BUT WHO WANTS TO RIDE TO MUCH TARMAC.AT THE END OF THE DAY I FIND THEM A VERY RELIABLE TYRE AND IF YOUR INTO QUICK RIDING GET SOME BUT TO GET THERE TRUE PERFORMANCE YOU HAVE TO RIDE FULL BORE, ENJOY.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris S
a Cross Country Rider
from Virginia Date Reviewed: August 18, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Fast tire. Low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
Very skittish - slips around a lot. Weak side walls. Prone to flats.
I just have to submit a review for these tires because I bought them based on the positive reviews here and man did I make a mistake! From the first ride out on these bad boys I was afraid for my life. Both tires were constantly washing out on the dry hardpack with lots of roots and loose rocks that I primarily ride. They would not hold a line and were definitely not confidence inspiring. I messed with various tire pressures to no avail - I could never get these tires to stay connected. My previous tires, which were semi-slicks, held a line better than these tires. There must be an application for these tires because people seem to love them but they did not work for me on dry/loose, tight, technical singletrack. I replaced them with a Panaracer Smoke/Dart combo (at half the price) and man, what a difference! (See my review of the Smoke and Dart.) These bad boys get one flaming turd because of the 2 wrecks and 1 flat they caused in 2 rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor, MI Date Reviewed: August 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Poto
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
supergo
Bottom Line:
This is a re-review. At first I was a little overgracious about these tires.
By no means are they mud tires, they weren't made to be. But on fast/dry stuff they are the best.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Z
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: August 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the greater southern skyline region
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
www.pricepoint.com
Strengths:
amazing grip, stopping power, cornering
Weaknesses:
wear, pinch flat
Similar Products Used:
various WTB products
Bike Setup:
KHS Pro ST, Python Gold front, WTB Nanoraptor rear,
Bottom Line:
The pythons have a lot of traction and consequent stopping power. The yellow Silicium strips seem to work extremely well in most conditions, since I now can stop and corner faster. Now the downside: These tires wear fast! I can see significant wear after just a few hundred miles. My WTBs last so much longer. Oh yeah, one more thing. I hit a big rock last weekend, and guess what. PINCH FLAT!!! I didn't expect that from a fat 127tpi tire. Bottom line : great if you can get it cheap. Bring spare tubes!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steig
a
from Vienna,va,usa Date Reviewed: July 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Pocohontas, VA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
Nice traction. A lot of confidence in hard cornering.
Weaknesses:
Thin side walls. Many, Many Pinch Flats!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR
Bottom Line:
I was very pleased with these tires on my first few rides out. They were much better in the corners and in the mud than the Specialized that came standard on my bike. However, this tire doesn't take big hits well and the thin sidewalls do not survice rocky rides. Two pinch flats and a tear in the sidewall during a single ride has convinced me to try the Panaracer Fire XC Pro.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Somerville, MA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Strengths:
They prevent pinch flats. A good tire to ride on the road with (one key reason to buy off road Mtn bike products)
Weaknesses:
They stink in the mud. If you are on a fire road and hit a patch of washed out loose gravel look out. They handle like crap on everything except hard pack. I have been on around 6 rides with them and they are 1/2 worn down(I am and experienced rider and know how to break too).
If you live in the Northeast do not buy these tires. They are dangerous and not very durable. I would only recomend these to people who ride hard pack trails, fire roads, or just on the street.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Junglerider
a
from Madison Date Reviewed: June 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
this is an update from my previous review. after using it for some time, i found out that they do not shed mud at all.
for the past month, madison had been raining most of the days and i biked mostly a day or two after the rain. although most of the trail dried up, but the muddy spots would spoil my whole ride. the mud would stick on to the python gold and would not shed, not even a bit. it affected my climbing and control ability greatly. climbs that i usually did with ease would feel impossibly steep due to the loss of traction.
to further prove my point. even after the trail ride, i need to ride about 0.5 or 1 mile of cement pavement or normal roads to reach home. with 5-10 bunny hops along the way, 70% of the mud still stuck on to the tires.
But dont get me wrong, the tires are very good in dry condition. i love the control and traction when they are dry.
5 for value again because i got them cheap, and 2 for overall to balance up my previous vote of 5.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Racer
from Ann Arbor, MI Date Reviewed: June 12, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great traction and relatively low rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
Not too good in the mud, hard to find traction. Looking for a good mud specific tire.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized team control/master, Panaracer Fire XC Pro, Tioga Factory XC, GEAX, WTB Velociraptor
Bottom Line:
I've been very happy with this tire. I'm currently only running it on the rear. I've been surprised how well it hooks up in the hardpack and going over roots and rocks with the relatively small knobs. No complaints about cornering either. I don't have really much anything bad to say about the tire except if you generally ride in muddy conditions you may want to look elsewhere. I've had problems finding good traction when it gets muddy, there are probably other tires more specifically tailored for these types of conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Showen
a
from Lincoln Nebraska Date Reviewed: June 4, 2002
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
www.supergo.com
Strengths:
Good all around tire, good for cement too. can hold up to the big jumps..
Weaknesses:
ware fast if used on cement to much,
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager, WTB.
Bike Setup:
Trek 8000lt, Psylo Race, race face cranks, hayes breaks, king hubs and headset.
Bottom Line:
Great traction on tacky dirt, kinda wash out on dusty trails, mudd flings off well i guess, depends where you live and what kind of mudd you go in.. all around good tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Weekend Warrior
from ft. lauderdale, fl, usa Date Reviewed: May 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Oleta
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
Rides smooth and fast, no pinch flats
Weaknesses:
bumblebee styling, pain in the arse to put on.
Similar Products Used:
tioga, panaracer, Grimes(POS)
Bike Setup:
Diamondback x2, Easton monkey lite bars, Race face turbine Cranks, some other parts generally a great setup for me
Bottom Line:
Where I ride in Florida they work great. Never had a trial by mud here, but over hard pack, roots, coral rock and sugar sand they exceeded my expectations. I recommend them to all my mountain biking friends. Never get a pinch flat with these even with close to 20lbs of pressure. Rides so smooth over all obstacles and tons of grip. I will definitely get another pair once these where out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Ann Arbor, MI Date Reviewed: May 11, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This tire hooks up well, fast rolling, works well in mud for the most part
Weaknesses:
Pain in the ass to get on the wheel, it is a kevlar bead obviously but dam.
Bike Setup:
2002 FSR Comp stock, except egg beaters, monkey light bar
Bottom Line:
This tire hooks up very well in many conditions. I feel confident riding into the corners hard with these. I do ride in sand and did not experience the wheel suck of the front tire. It does a good job sheding mud.
Overall, I love this tire, best I have ever had. I have it on the front and rear with no complaints at all. Fast rolling, hooks up well. It is not a hard-core mud tire, but the tread design sheds mud extremely well for the intended use.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
guy 3
a
from boston ma Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
you name it
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
grips well...most the time
Weaknesses:
this tire is great on everything, save roots...and wet rocks. But i have yet to find a tire that holds well on roots and wet rocks.
Similar Products Used:
WTB, vredestein, michelin, etc...
Bottom Line:
i would recomend this tire for all those out west...the northwest, where mtn bike trail doesnt mean roots and rocks. Also the tire seems a little like overkill for full suspension, granted it grips well, this to me seems to be a hard tail tire. Also this tire suck on the front wheel, there just isnt enough tread to grip corners in loose pack. try the mosquitoe in front, it works very well
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: April 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Vasa
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Performance Cycle
Strengths:
Fast rolling tire, Soft ride, Great looks.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Wildgripper Comps, Specialized dirt control and master.
Bike Setup:
Schwinn homegrown. xt/xtr everything.
Bottom Line:
I love this tire! It rolls faster than anything I have ever tried. I was also very surprised at the smooth (soft) ride I am getting out of them. It flys though hard pack, I've had no trouble in sand or mud. The best tire I've used yet. And at a great price too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terrence Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Lakewood, Colorado, USA Date Reviewed: April 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Bergen Peak
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Performance Cycle
Strengths:
Excellent grip on 'foothills grit', erosion logs and rock. No flats so far. The chicks dig em'
If you like to climb lotsa techie stuff and get chicks get this tire... so far it works great here in Colorado... dunno how it would set up in serious BC mud / wet conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Ventura, CA Date Reviewed: April 3, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Sycamore Canyon/Guadalasco
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint.com
Strengths:
Great traction, no pinch flats
Weaknesses:
Wears down way too quickly
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer/Velociraptor
Bike Setup:
2001 Giant Raineer with upgrades
Bottom Line:
Good tires while they held up, but the tread wore down way too fast. I had to replace them because the side wall split on the rear tire, but would have swapped them out due to tread wear anyway. I will say that I didn't have any pinch flats which is pretty impressive since I'm 6'2, 210 lbs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Diego Martinez
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: January 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
bikeusa.com
Strengths:
It will bear hug anything from rock to loose sand. Looks cool too.
Weaknesses:
Wears fast and packs up with mud easily.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda, Panaracer
Bike Setup:
Motiv Rockpoint Fox shox front and back.
Bottom Line:
If you are at all serious about riding, this is the way to go. The side walls are tough as nails, thorns won't penetrate the tread. I'm 6'2" and 185 and I can run 25 psi without bashing the rim, loww psi also means oodles of traction. Little tip, if you're gonna run very low psi, like for very technical riding, get the tubeless version. All you gotta do is inflate to 80 psi to seat the bead, then air down. The bead on the tubeless will not budge.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Flyer
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago Date Reviewed: December 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$26.00
Strengths:
High air volume means I can ride them with a lower pressure, and not have to worry about pinch flats.
Weaknesses:
None so far....not the best tire for mud....
Similar Products Used:
Tioga, VelociRaptors, Panaracer Smoke & Dart.
Bike Setup:
2002 Giant XTC se2...numerous upgrades.
Bottom Line:
I used to be stuck on VelociRaptors until I tried these. Definately a fast tire on hardpack and I was surprised how well they handle the loose stuff. I am 6-0 and around 205, and with the velociraptors I had to run them around 45 psi to keep from having pinch flats...I can run these at 38 - 40 and does it make a difference! Probably not the best tire for mud or slickrock type riding....but then I haven't had a lot of problem there either. These definately work for me!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CHUCK COOK
a Racer
from NASHVILLE,TN.U.S.A. Date Reviewed: December 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
LOCK-4..HAMILTON CREEK
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
BIKERS CHOICE
Strengths:
THIS IS THE BEST TIRE OUT THERE FOR DRY COND.HOOKS GREAT ON HARD PACK.
Weaknesses:
THERE IS NO WEAKNESSE IN THIS TIRE.....
Similar Products Used:
CONT,IRC,
Bike Setup:
MARIN.PINE-MT.XT ALL THE WAY,CHRIS KING HEAD SET,SELLE FLITE GEL SEAT,THOMSON POST AND STEM,MAVIC RIMS,RINGLE HUBS,SPD 858 PEDALS,PROFILE FLAT CARBON BARS.
Bottom Line:
THIS IS THE BEST TIRE THAT I HAVE FOUND FOR RACING IN DRY COND.IT'S NOT THAT GOOD OF A TIRE FOR WET COND.IT'S A VERY FAST TIRE,AND PERFORMS GREAT IN THE CURVES,GREAT HILL CLIMBING,AND GREAT ON THE ROCKS AND ROOTS.DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON ANY OTHER TIRE.GET YOU SOME OF THE GOLD.AND THEY LOOK COOL TOO......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Laura
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor, Michigan Date Reviewed: November 21, 2001
These tires ROCK in the sand, of which there is plenty in Michigan. I cut through sand like I'm floating on it. A friend said these tires were the best upgrade she's made after clipless pedals, so that convinced me to try them. I've also ridden them on the Tsali trails of N. Carolina. The low rolling resistence on the hardpack makes me really fast. They did pretty well in the mud also. I wasn't expecting much performance in "real" (non-sand) mud, but they surprised me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stuart
a Weekend Warrior
from Hobart, Tasmania, Australia Date Reviewed: October 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
S57
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Grip very well, Large volume, fast roll
Weaknesses:
price...but show me a good mtb product that isn't pricey.
Similar Products Used:
Velociraptors
Bike Setup:
Gaint ATX 900
Bottom Line:
An excellent tire. Not really made for the tarmac, and this shows when it comes to wear. They out performed the velociraptors in all conditions, including mud which was a real surprise. They roll very fast. Don't pinch flat when run at the recommended pressure. I do have some trouble getting them off my rims as they are a very tight fit, but that's probably a good thing. I have not had problems with wash out or them letting go unexpectedly, this is also a surprise with the lack of side knobs. The only times they have not gripped well (which was in a kind of sticky soil that fromed beads) no other tire has been performing either, not even your beefy downhill knobbies. They really are a race tire, no doubt about it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck Cook
a Racer
from Nashville,TN. USA USA USA Date Reviewed: October 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lock 4 Gallitan,Tn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$42.00
Purchased At:
The Bikerschoice bike store
Strengths:
Very good in dry cond. sticks great on rocks and roots.It does NOT wash out in turns at high speeds.
Weaknesses:
It dont like mud at all.And if you ride on the road much it wont last long at all.
Similar Products Used:
mich-HOT-S
Bike Setup:
MARIN-PINE-MT.. XT all the way thur, Chris King haed set,Profile carbon bars,Ringle hubs.Sella Flite gel tit.seat
Bottom Line:
This is a GREAT rear tire.I have not used it as a front tire.If you need a great dry,rocky,rooty,RACE tire this is the tire for you.BUT if its wet or muddy this tire is NOT FOR YOU.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luc Willems
a Cross Country Rider
from Zolder, Belgium Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Houffalize
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
No snake bites Good rear traction Little resistance
Weaknesses:
Bad front tire in muddy conditions, no grip
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer
Bike Setup:
Schwinn/Rock shox judy/Mavic crossroc/Sram 7.0
Bottom Line:
Very good in dry/semi dry conditions, unsufficient as front tire in Belgian winter conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ray
a Cross Country Rider
from stillwater Date Reviewed: August 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all of em
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Vernon Bike
Strengths:
Wicked yellow sidewalls, very low rolling resistince, great traction
Weaknesses:
none yet besides it slides sometimes, but any tire would slied in thos condiditons
Similar Products Used:
wtb veloco, nanorapor etc
Bike Setup:
2001 agressor 1.0 with xt/lx
Bottom Line:
these tires are awesome for all the conditions i ride in, hardpack, single track, some muddy but too muddy, wet roots, pretty much anything if you want a good tire that is great for just about any thing, buy these with the green tubes so you can run them at low psi w/ pinches
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Racer
from Hanover, NH Date Reviewed: July 31, 2001
These tires are great. For hardpack, hell, I'd use em for slalom. For just about every situation, these tires are great. For most stuff, I just use one in the rear, with a hot-s or a specialized team in the front. It rolls fast, hooks up well(the euros do rubber compounds right) on almost everything, and corners really well despite the sparse tread. Seriously, with a full-on knobby in the front, and this in the rear, you can rip just about everything. The large volume casing is great, because it allows for a much more compliant ride. I love them. Plus, Supergo.com has them for $28 right now. Go buy one for the rear, and forget about it. Oh yeah, the sidewalls are real stiff too. So, five flaming dog poops for this sweet tire.
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Submitted by
Coda
a Cross Country Rider
from Grass Valley, CA, US Date Reviewed: July 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
- super grippy - super fast-rolling
Weaknesses:
- impossible (for me) to seat them properly, no matter what the rim - expensive
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Ritchey, Panaracer, Onza, WTB, et al.
I got these as a birthday present, which is the only reason I'm not pissed about them. They climb well, they roll well, they descend well. My only problem with them is that they don't seat properly on any rim I've put them on, and I've tried them on a few (WTB, Bontrager, Mavic). There's always a section of the tire which seats perfectly, and the rest kinda sticks out. The end result is that the tire wobbles like the rim is way out of true, making low speed riding sketchy and high speed riding plain scary.
I've seated tires hundreds of times (been biking since '93), but this refuses to work. I didn't accidentally get the UST model, either. I'd really like to use this tire, as it's the best I've ever found. The wobbling makes it almost useless, though. Any tips on how to get this to seat? Should I be using their tubes, or did I just get a bum pair?
If I could get these to seat, I'd give it 4 on value and 5 overall, but I'm gonna have to give it 2 overall. Not seating = no fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matej Zalar
a Racer
from Slovenija Date Reviewed: June 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Orle
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Maxisport Èerin
Bottom Line:
They are the best for races, but only for races, because they worn out very soon.
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Submitted by
Palolo
a Weekend Warrior
from Honolulu Date Reviewed: June 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Mililani
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
Foldable
Weaknesses:
Easy to get a pinched flat, and not as grippy as some other tires
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC 2.1, Bontrager Jones
Bike Setup:
1999 Trek 7000
Bottom Line:
These tires slip more on dirt and rocks especially on the climbs. You have to have higher pressure to avoid pinched flats. A little more difficult to change tubes on the trail due to the fact that they tend to flatten out, and not hold shape. But, on the other hand they shed mud better than the Jones and probably have a lower rolling resistance. I would probably used these tires on hard packed soil... like fire roads and use my Fire XC on single tracks
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ANDREW JONES
a Cross Country Rider
from AUSTRALIA Date Reviewed: May 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Local xc and dh trax
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Greg Shepherd Cycles
Strengths:
light tyre good for geting to the trails on the tar as well as in the semi hard dirt. Also the cool yellow sidewalls
Weaknesses:
I found them a little loose int the soft dirt but they areonly a 2.00 so could be the size./
Bike Setup:
GT sts2 hi 5 xtr comps spynergy 4 spokes
Bottom Line:
I think this tyre is good for allround trail/street use but may have some trouble in softer areas, they seem to be lighter than most.Ok if you need to ride 5 or more ks to the dirt go get one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BRANDON MITCHELL
a Weekend Warrior
from ATLANTA, GA Date Reviewed: May 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
CONYERS OLYMPIC TRAILS
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
BIKE CENTER, STOCKBRIDGE
Strengths:
LOOKS, DURABILITY,
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
VELOCIRAPTORS
Bike Setup:
GT-I-DRIVE, XTR/RACE FACE DRIVE TRAIN
Bottom Line:
OUTSTANDING TIRES, ABSORB THE BUMPS GOOD, AND GRIP REALLY WELL. TOOK SOME GETTING USED TO FOR SOME REASON, BUT I WOULD NOT USE ANY OTHER FOR NOW
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from Northern va. Date Reviewed: April 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
E. Furnace
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
through LBS
Strengths:
This is the Omni-tire,holds its own in any condition.The key is inflation.If your washing out, you got to much air in them, read on.
Weaknesses:
a little hefty, but the Python Lites solve that.
Similar Products Used:
IRC,Kenda,Bontrager, michelin,specialized,continetal,Knobby slick/semislick, you name it.
Bike Setup:
Sugar 2 Sid/AD10/xtr/crosslands.
Bottom Line:
Seen alot of reveiws bagging these tires for too being washy, they will be if you run too much air.I run mine 30 front 35 rear.How? I bought the Hutchy gold tubes that are engineered for this tire. They are a tube and tire SYSTEM designed to work together.If you dont have the Hutchinson green tubes,your only getting 1/2 preformance you should outta these tires. The thick Green tubes allow you run lower air without pinch flatting, also Gives you the same ride as tubeless tires. Borrowed a set of tubless Crossmaxes and proved it to myself. Same ride for about 800 buck less!. As for mud? these tires pull like hell with a lower psi in them. Small ledeges in the tread design make them better at self cleaning than your standard knobby.Think the tread design sucks? Check out the new Michelin tubeless tires,basically the same design.Rounded profile, small ledges. This tire has great low rolling resistance,feels like you've added more supsension the way it sucks up hits on rocks and roots.Adjusting the air adapts it for any condition.Fast and hard or slick and loose. Had mine on for 8 months, 1200 single track miles w/no pinch flats, (which used to be a weekly occurance) and they still look like new,Last tire you'll need.
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Submitted by
Dallas Craig
a Weekend Warrior
from Arizona Date Reviewed: February 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
bootleg canyon ,nevada
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Sticky tire,works like a shock with recommended pressure. Easy mounting , no pinch flats. Corners well , better if you lean enough to use yellow rubber. Low rolling resistance , they feel fast.
Weaknesses:
My own fault but they make my bike Ugly as well as Stinky (99 orange and black). Pricey for a soft tire which will probably last 100 miles of hard riding.
Similar Products Used:
Mythos
Bike Setup:
Kona 99 stinky with XT cranks, gold python tires , ODI lock grips ,545 peds ,SDG saddle
Bottom Line:
These tires would better suit a hardtail because of their shock absorbing design. I am running mine at forty so I can hear my shocks working. Next time I will buy a harder tire for this bike and I will make sure they are black. No problems with sidewall or tread yet but they are a soft tire and I am sure they will wear quickly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Haulenbeek
a Racer
from Westford Vermont USA Date Reviewed: February 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Pecker hed rim
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Earl's
Strengths:
Great all around performance good on everything but thick mud. The soft side knobs realy help cornering on hard ground. They also look realy good
Weaknesses:
The side walls will fade and start to split after a while and the soft side knobs will wear quickly
Similar Products Used:
These tires are one of a kind you have to get a pair
Bike Setup:
DBR Team Issue SX Carbon Mavic Cros Max 9.0/XT
Bottom Line:
These tires are the best if you like to free ride or want to run one pair of tires for racing. The only weaknes they have performance wise is when you get in to realy slopy mud. They are very resitant aginst flats and if you use the green tubes you can 10 psi and not flat. They might be a little heavy for weight wimps but they perform better then most of my DH tires and weigh much much less! You cant compare these tires to any other even the Bontrager super X ripoffs arn't the same they are very unique and you must try them you will never want to ride another pair of tires. If you want the best Tires ever made Buy these!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
barry laws
a Weekend Warrior
from LA Date Reviewed: January 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
sullivan canyon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$34.00
Strengths:
???? must make the distributor money
Weaknesses:
slippery, no feel, ugly yellow sidewall
Bike Setup:
jekyl 3000sx
Bottom Line:
i must own another brand of gold pythons cause these don't sound like the ones reviewed before me.
these tires give me zero confidence in hard packed (with loose top soil) southern california fireroads. my slicks gave me more notice / confidence when bombing down hill. these washed out on me more than once causing me pain and distrust.
if anyone has any suggestions for these tires, pressures etc... i would be grateful... otherwise i've been taken to the cleaners for about $75 for 2 crappy rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david mccoy
a
from athens, ga usa Date Reviewed: January 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
allofum
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
good on hard surfaces in a straight line and seem to be durable, look real cool
Weaknesses:
squirely in the turns, not much traction in wet conditions
Bottom Line:
I hate to crash the party, but these tires are not that great. If you're riding in dry, non-technical and non-loose/slippery conditions, they are good....otherwise, look for tires with better grip. As a front tire they SUCK, as they are non directional
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Milliman
a Cross Country Rider
from New Hampshire Date Reviewed: December 19, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Incredible grip, corner like mad, don't pinch flat
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Name a tire, I've tried it.
Bike Setup:
Fisher hardtail/XC race rig
Bottom Line:
Bottom line: The best tires I have ever used. Since I started mtb riding in 1989 I've used about every new tire that's come down the pike. Until now all the new tires have been only slightly better than the ones before, or slightly worse, but nothing wildly better or worse. Until now.
These tires are so much better than anything else. I thought they would get clogged easily in loamy conditions but they don't. Also I can run slightly lower tire pressure (37-40 psi) and not flat even when hitting rocks hard. Some of the slippery rocky rooty sections I ride became a ton easier with these tires. No kidding. I don't know exactly what makes these tires so good, but they are without doubt my favorite new bike bit this year!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Kaplan
a Cross Country Rider
from Wellesley, MA USA Date Reviewed: December 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Holds very well on hard pack, sand, and loose. Corners very well. Rides very quietly and smoothly on paved roads. Great looking. Light.
Weaknesses:
Not a good tire for mud and other conditions favoring a more aggressive tread.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Fat Chance Lite with Rock Shox Judy XC, XT, Mavic, Hard Tail
Bottom Line:
1st rate tire for other than muddy conditions
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a
from Balt,Md Date Reviewed: November 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
They are a good hard pack tire
Weaknesses:
Sidewalls.......I don't know how some of you guys are racing on these but I have ripped the sidewalls on front and back. Each time I never flatted I just look down to see the tube bulging out of the sidewall.
Similar Products Used:
Continentals,IRC,Maxxis
Bottom Line:
Some guys might like them but,ask anyone who has the new mavic tubless and I will bet they tell you the same.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cadel Evans :-P
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: October 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lane Cove NP http://geocities.com/volcan271/lanecove.html
- Kenda (no good) - Tioga psycho (no good) - Ritchey Speedmax semi-slick (great)
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F700
Bottom Line:
Great tyre esp for hardpack - rolls just as fast as my Ritchey Speedmax semi-slick.
Except with traction of course, good traction even on wet leaves . . .
& oh yeah it burrs so much on tarmac which is a worry since I do have to ride on it to get to/from my fave trail - though lately I've been cutting down on the tarmac bit just by climbing an ultra-steep hill instead.
The major problem with these tyres is that they slide even in the dry . . . ok I know they slide predictably BUT I don't like to do that when I'm riding solo.
It's surprising that my Ritchey Speedmax semi-slick had just about as much cornering grip as the Python . . . though I suspect that the Python has more ultimate grip. Traction is incomparable & braking traction is excellent.
Dry-weather tyre is no problem even when it's wet here, the trails never get wet anyway (puddles form which harden up the trail underneath so there's actually MORE grip when it's raining). There's no mud here either.
They are slightly heavy & not the easiest tyre to fit on the rim . . . but they're great . . . looks trick with the yellow sides.
I seriously don't think it's cheap . . . I only ordered the Pythons simply because I couldn't get anything else from the Australian distributors (I tried just about every brand imaginable).
I don't think it'll make a good racing tyre either - I'm not so sure I like the weight or the fact that it slides that easily - which is ok for a social ride but when you get tired it's gonna be hard to judge.
Ever wondered why some of the Hutchinson runners ran Mosquito Golds in the Olympics???
(yes I did check their bikes in the athlete's lounge afterwards - at least Cadel Evans had rubbed-down Mozzies on his Cannondale)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
michael
a Weekend Warrior
from castaic, ca, usa Date Reviewed: October 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
porcupine rim, moab
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
jenson usa
Strengths:
roll fast, feel great on hardpack, very predictable even when sliding.
Weaknesses:
wear quickly???
Similar Products Used:
enduroraptors, team controls, tons of stuff over 12 years of riding.
Bike Setup:
Intense tracer w/bomber fork
Bottom Line:
I have been riding these for the last two weeks, and I have to say I have never (in 12+ years)ridden a better tire for hardpack conditions. They roll fast, steer quickly and grip tenaciously, even in sand, only drifting in loose stuff and then, they do so slowly and hook up again if you have the nerve to keep pedaling. They also ride very well, even at 40 lbs, giving a nice feel to the bike. Racing tire??? I dunno, don't care. Mud??? Don't have any, yet. But, I just got back from a trip to Moab where we rode 3 - 4 hours every day for a week over slickrock, jeep roads, and, hey...it's Moab, the rides there do their best to pound you into submission. The tires performed fabulously, and although the rear shows some wear, my riding partner started out with a resonably good Geax rear tire and finished the week on a bald tire. Moab is tough on bike parts. I will post back if suddenly I hate these tires, but that probably won't happen. I am about 185 pounds and ride pretty hard...no freeriding stuff, but lots of long fireroads and singletrack....typical So Cal stuff. Watch for good pricing on these tires...www.jensonusa.com and www.supergo.com Otherwise they are pricy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Abel M.
a Racer
from Pasadena, Ca, US Date Reviewed: October 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Incycle
Strengths:
Matches my yellow M4.
Weaknesses:
No bang for the buck, heavy, falls apart.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, WTB, Bontrager...
Bike Setup:
Specialized M4, SRAM, XTR
Bottom Line:
The Python Gold's are OK if you are only using them for recreational purposes. If you plan on actually racing with these you will be disappointed. For starters, they are too heavy. There are much better tires out there with less weight (Panaracer XC Pro). Another thing, they wear out quick. I used a Python Gold for my rear wheel and after less than one season of mt. biking (some racing) the knobs began to fall apart and the tire began to crack. CRACK! That's not supposed to happen unless you leave a bike in your garage for a year or two. Oh well, Guess I'll get my self some Panaracers or some Maxxis. I don't recommend these if you plan on racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bleeder
a Cross Country Rider
from Jacksonville Date Reviewed: October 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Crusty Knuckle
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
www.Jensonusa.com
Strengths:
+ Reasonably Durable. + Moderately High Performance vs Cost. + Fairly light with Kevlar bead. + Low Noise/Low Rolling resistance. + Comfortable tire at low air pressures.
Weaknesses:
- Front tire does tends to wash out turning at speed. - Somewhat Slippery when wet! - Fairly heavy, even with Kevlar bead. - Quick desintegration on pavement... - Yellow color...ehh...
Similar Products Used:
Continental Comp Pro (Fantastic Tire!) Tioga Factory XC Trek Big Kahuna (What the hell was I thinking...) Bontrager Jones (not the AC version...Good tire overall) Panaracer Smoke/Dart (Great price vs. performance!)
Bike Setup:
1998 Trek 7000 w/ ControlTech Stem & Bar Ends. Thudbuster Seatpost/Shimano PD-M434 Clipless Pedals. XT/LX Drivetrain with Mavic 222 rims. "Brand-new" 1999 Marzocchi Atom Bomb. (Heavy, but...WOW!!!)
Bottom Line:
My Continental's were wearing thin, and one of my riding partners had just removed his Bontrager Jones' tires from his GF Sugar 2 after buying new Panaracer Fire XC Pro's. These were fairly new and he's let me use them until I could do research for a new tire set of my own. Although I can tell the difference when my Conti's were new, the Bontrager's certainly held there own considering their current price online. Here in Florida, we have singletrack that consists mostly of hardpack dirt, single track with palm tree roots (tons!), flatland fireroads, and occasional sand. I was pleasantly surprised by how well these tires stuck to the terrain and how well I could control the tires, even in loose sand.
It was time to buy new though, so on go the Python Golds...IMPRESSION: Good tire overall, but not all that great. I respect the prior reviews, but the fact of the matter remains that the tire washes out on me in sharp to moderate turns, even in dry conditions. They climb almost as well as my Conti's have and they definately roll smoother on pavement. No problems with pinch flats or sidewall cuts, even with hard riding on them almost daily. Those are good points, especially for a dry-use, low pressure tire. I've tried to vary the pressure between rides, anywhere from 30-40 lbs, but the tires still give way, despite the lower tire pressures. Average weight and average ride results add up to an average tire. I really want to like this tire as I'm still evaluating the ride on them for now. If I had to pick tires, the Conti Comp Pro, followed by the Kevlar-bead Smoke/Dart Combo would be my tires of choice for my conditions here.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Rogers
a Racer
from Ashland, Oregon Date Reviewed: October 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Time Warp
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Feels light and fast on STRAIGHT fire roads. Not a lot of rolling friction.
Weaknesses:
Front tire wash-out, does not rack well. Suscepible to Snake Bikes.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptors, Panaracer Fire XC Pro
Bike Setup:
M4 XTR Raceface Mavic
Bottom Line:
I bled more in the first week and a half that I had the Python Golds on my bike, than I had in a Year prior. I had three major stacks right after I through them on. All were front tire wash-out related. I did not trust them on turns at all. I bought them after reading reviews right here...I don't know what these other guys are on/ridding on, but in Southern Oregon we have DG(decomposed granite)and the tire is more than lacking. After kicking down $75 for them, I ended up ditching them two weeks later, because I had a race coming up, and I was not going to even think about racing on them. I shelled out another $50 and went back to the Panaracer Fire xc Pro(a superior tire that cost less). The main reason that I even tried a different tire was the great reviews that others(????)had given it....Thus I feel Obligated to come back submit my finding from studying at the school of hard Knocks.
ps. I will never forget these tires; I have scars to remind me of them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron Bitterman
a Weekend Warrior
from Longmont, CO USA Date Reviewed: September 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Hall Ranch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo
Strengths:
Surprising grip for small knobs. Definite head turning looks. Low rolling resistance really lets you fly on the hard pack.
Weaknesses:
Not ideal for wet, muddy stuff.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Diamondback Topanga Comp (stock)
Bottom Line:
These tires are great for the hard, dry conditions in CO. The front tracks great in turns and they grip on everything I have thrown at them. I turned the front backwards and I like the predictablility of it better that way. Would recommend it for XC and anyone who rides alot of the harder packed stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Sacramento, CA USA Date Reviewed: September 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Looks, speed, durability.
Weaknesses:
A tad heavy. Does slide on some hardpack going downhill, but it's predictable sliding.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Jekyll 900SL
Bottom Line:
These tires are great. I ride lots of sharp rocky stuff and these hold up great. I'm shocked that I haven't slit my sidewalls yet on the stuff I've gone through. The grip is great except for the occasional predictable downhill sliding on steep drypack. They are also very fast. I was really surprised how fast they were the first time I had them on the bike. The tires last a long time too. I've put a lot of miles on them and they show very little signs of wear compared to other tires I've used. I wish they could make them a little lighter, but everything else out there that's like it is just as heavy. I would recommend these to anyone (although I can't say about wet conditions though, I've never ridden them wet yet). I understand they market them as a dry condition tire only though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from MI Date Reviewed: August 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
potawatomi
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
fast rolling, predictable, grippy, cool color
Weaknesses:
weight
Similar Products Used:
darn near all of them
Bike Setup:
heckler sl, full xtr, angryasian fork
Bottom Line:
nice tires. i am 150lb and ran the pythons at 32 psi. this gives great traction with good speed. the feeling of low pressure is interesting. it feels like you are riding on a carpet--really supple over the little stuff. i think i agree that with lower pressure, you carry more speed over hardpack, due to the tire flexing over the terrain instead of bouncing around and losing momentum. these tires feel fast. they also grip quite well. im impressed. **for more loose/gnarly/muddy terrain, try the hutchinson alligator 1.85.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andy
a Cross Country Rider
from new market, md Date Reviewed: August 11, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
lower rolling resistance than knobs, tough in rocks, low air pressure option
Weaknesses:
not a great wet weather tire
Similar Products Used:
panaracer fires, IRC mythos
Bike Setup:
Klein hardtail, 155lb rider
Bottom Line:
These are great riding/racing tires. I use about 30lbs front, 35lbs rear. They stick very well from dry to moist conditions. I'm surprised at how well the rear holds traction while climbing. Lower profile knobs don't hang up on rough, rocky trails allowing for a smooth predictable ride. I haven't pinched these yet, and I'm using lightweight tubes. I had pinched the Panaracer Fires many times with pressure above 40lbs. I've had quite a few rocky sharp rides with no tears. Got em @ $30, Pricepoint
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Submitted by
Richard
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, Colorado, USA Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Grips well.
Weaknesses:
Tire rips easily. Slower to install
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager, Michelin
Bottom Line:
Bought the tires last Friday, rode them Saturday and this Tuesday. Noticed after the Tuesday ride there a 1 inch tear from the centre of the tire to the sidewall. Not completely through the tire, but still deep enough to consider it ruined. That sucks..
Grips really well though.. Slower to install than other tires.
Not cheap at $40.
I guess I was unlucky, but I've got questions about the tires durability in rocky conditions.
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Submitted by
Nick Zema
a Weekend Warrior
from NJ Date Reviewed: August 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Cheesequake State Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
!!EVERYTHING!! except weight. Great in sand and soft terrian. Look great with the right color bike. (Looks great with a black and yellow bike like my European Rockhopper Comp.)
Weaknesses:
Not light weight, arent as good in muddy conditions but still great. Not to good on road cause they are suppose to be used on a low PSI. Pretty Expensive.
Great off road tire, its only a little heavy but all good tires are. If u are someone who only rides off road, doesnt care about weight, and has a thick wallet, buy these.
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Submitted by
Patrick
a Cross Country Rider
from Connecticut Date Reviewed: July 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything especially rocky
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
nice yellow color matches cannondale team yellow, good traction in almost everything
Great all around tires, last a long time on all condition road, hardpacked, rock, wet, mud. fast alittle heavy and slide some when stopping fast on hard packed even with discs.
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Submitted by
Ray
a Cross Country Rider
from Oregon Date Reviewed: July 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
All and Any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Glow in the dark color doubles as a reflector, Grip all conditions tuffness.
Weaknesses:
a bit heavy, price, slides a bit on hard pack when braking hard
Similar Products Used:
Kenda, Speialized
Bike Setup:
stumpjumper
Bottom Line:
Over all I am pretty happy with the tires. I do a lot of ridding on all kinds of surfaces road, mud, creek crossing, sand, and hard pack. The only problem I have with them is they slide a bit easy on hard pack, Traction wise they are great.
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Submitted by
Jeremy
a Cross Country Rider
from New England, USA Date Reviewed: July 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Vietnam
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Excellent dry traction Excellent wet traction(wet rock faces, etc.) Excellent cornering Sheds mud very well Gold Sidewall attracts the attention of everyone who sees it Looks Great Absorbs shock, Snake Bite resistant, Low Rolling resistance, Can be run with low PSI
Weaknesses:
Finding someone who will sell them cheaply
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC Pro 2.1 Tioga Psycho Specialized (that came on the bike)
Bike Setup:
1999 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR XC The tires are the only thing that was changed.
Bottom Line:
These tires have excellent traction no matter what the condition is. They grip better than the other tires and are ALSO FASTER. I have never gotten a snake bite and i ride more aggressively than I used to. Most importantly, the tire with the least rolling resistance isn't always the fastest. This bike's stock tires were very sketchy, making it unsafe to go fast and twitchy. European tires grip better than any other when wet, no more asian or American tires for me. With traction this good you can't go wrong.
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Submitted by
vasek
a Racer
from brno,czech republic Date Reviewed: June 23, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
shock absorption,grip
Weaknesses:
heavy,unpossible to put on in racing conditions
Similar Products Used:
all european
Bike Setup:
morati,full xtr,avid sd25 brakes,mavic
Bottom Line:
well, these tires would get 5 stars for riding in bumpy terrain - I have a rigid Ti bike (no shock;-), but these serve as a really fool-proof frontshock, because they're very big so they can absorp the hits. When it comes to hardpack, they're just too heavy (over 630g each), so I would give them 4 stars or less. But there is one considerable fact - you aren't able to put them on (foldable version) quickly. It took me 3 minutes to change Conti ExplorerPro tire (similar to python), but I wasn't able to change the python under 15 minutes - whole tire was folding, it was necessary to use 2 tools to put them on. So I gave them 3.
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Submitted by
Racer X
a Cross Country Rider
from College Park, MD Date Reviewed: June 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, comfortable, good race tire.
Weaknesses:
A little skethcy if you don't know what you're doing especially in off camber terrain.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
'99 Schwinn Homegrown
Bottom Line:
This tire impressed me with its grip. I first used this tire at the this year's 24 Hours of Snowshoe. To those that were there, you know that is was SLICK. Every root had your name on it. However, the Pythons worked great, even though they are marketed as a dry condition tire. Part of this is that you can run the tire at such low pressures, 32 psi with standard tubes. When the fire road climbs hit, I was able to make up even more time because of the low rolling resistance. They are a little pricey, and the side knobs have worn down a bit after three laps. However, I would use this tire for about 80% of the riding that I do.
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Submitted by
jim McLellan
a Cross Country Rider
from West Hartford, CT Date Reviewed: May 30, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Nepaug
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Grip, looks and low rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
weak side wall
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Dirts Team
Bike Setup:
AMP B4F4...21.5 lbs
Bottom Line:
This is an update on my 10/28/99 review. Great tire...rolls like a ball downhill. First puncture on side wall due to skipping off rocks....not bad for 8 + months. I also use Panaraces Greenlites...the rear is showing through the tear...didn't blow....didn't leak yet...but ready to burst... The greenlite never pinch flatted..ran at 32 front and rear...Still a believer...tear 3/4 inch. First cost $50...replacing at $32 at JensonUSA.com. Which it was still lighter, mine were 580 grams. Want to try the Continential Twister Pro...see how they compare?
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Submitted by
dwain(er)
a Cross Country Rider
from birmingham alabama Date Reviewed: April 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
blood rock
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
looks great good grip in hard pack and semi muddy conditions low presure gives great dig
Weaknesses:
stoping otherwise none ,slids in high speed turns
Similar Products Used:
bontrager revolt st2 specialized team master, team control
Bike Setup:
99 fsr easton ct2 odi ruffman grip locks
Bottom Line:
this is the best upgade for any bike wouldnt recomend it in loose conditions or high speed turns
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Submitted by
Crank(E)
a Cross Country Rider
from Southern Ohio Date Reviewed: April 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
www.spokejunkies.com
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Sticky
Weaknesses:
None found yet
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager: Jones, Revolt SS, Geax Sedona
Bike Setup:
DBR XR4 w/ upgrades
Bottom Line:
Finally rode a couple of serious trail after some wet weather to get a good opinion. The tire hooks up. No bull. It stuck to everything but one wet root that I missed and had poor position on anyways. Get these tire and you will know, everyone (should) will copy them. They're great. No drag on the packed stuff, it's like riding a slick there that's just not as light. I've found my tire.
Ride up hill.
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Submitted by
Jeff
a Racer
from Traverse City MI Date Reviewed: April 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Grip in every condition roll fast
Weaknesses:
weight if you really care
Bike Setup:
Trek OCLV HC full XTR Crossmax, Sids
Bottom Line:
These tires whoop ass. They chew up hard pack and the low pressure combined with a 2.0 width means they go really well when it gets soft to. Mine seem to be wearing a little quicker than previous tires, but the all out traction in any situation is worth it. May be a little heavier than the light racing tires, but I have tried some, and if they dont hook up then it does not matter how light they are. Anyway awesome tires, and I run 35 psi with panaracer greenlite tubes and have no pinch flats yet, so the weight isn't a big deal with the light weight tube. Anyway buy these they will make you a better rider.
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Submitted by
Mike Carver
a Racer
from Plainville GA Date Reviewed: April 3, 2000
I've been more suprised by this tire than any other I've used. It roll very fast, grips as well as a full knobby, and is comfy. I use the Gold version for training and such and the AirLight for racing, both with the heavy green tubes. The Airlight with the hutchinson tubes weigh about the same as a regular tire and tube combo. I know that I could another 200 grams by using light tubes but this way I don't worry about snakebites and run only 32 psi in all sorts of terrain. The tires work in any condition including mud of biblical scope. If you can find them get them.
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Submitted by
scott graaf
a Cross Country Rider
from los angeles, ca. 91307 Date Reviewed: March 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
mamoth mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
on hard pack this is the best semi slick tire that I have ridden. Also works well in semi-muddy condiion. have a great shock absorning quality in their caseing.
Weaknesses:
side walls!! have had the side walls slit by rocks now on two of these tires. Thats two tires that I had to throw away. One after 7 rides & one after 2 rides. great ride but not worth losing a race over or having to limp home on, with a tube trying to find it's way out os a 2" slit.
Similar Products Used:
8 years worth of each years latest and greatest.
Bike Setup:
22pound titanium dean hardtail. sid sl-full XTR
Bottom Line:
the best hardpack racing/ general trail riding tire yet--- the lest reliant tire yet. RIDE or walk you derive!!! For me, I gota ride. these tires are now wall hangers!!!!!!
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Submitted by
Mike AKA: "Mad Dog"
a Racer
from Marietta, GA Date Reviewed: March 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sope Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Black and Yellow color (love it!) Fast Rolling Tire for weighing close to 600 grams Excellent all around performance
Weaknesses:
Weight (pushing 600 grams) not exactly a light racing tire Cost (Mine were $40+) Poor Performance in wet conditions
Similar Products Used:
Kenda, IRC, WTB, Ritchey, Panaracer, Geax
Bike Setup:
The Black Widow racing weapon pimped out with Race Face cranks, Dave's custom built Bontrager rims with King hubs, IBIS Ti Bars, Ti BB, Kore Stem, Rock Shox seatpost, Flite Ti saddle, Time Atac Carbon, XT/XTR groupo
Bottom Line:
I am going to use these tires in my first race which is on March 19th providing it is not raining. I purchased these based on other recommendations below and MTB Action. Initially, I was not impressed with the tires after my first ride with them. In fact, the Python Golds were downright scary during the initial initiation process because the trail was somewhat wet and I felt like my bike was being ridden over ice and loose snow. The grip was absolutely awful. I almost scrapped these puppies after the first ride, but thought they deserved a second chance. The next time I rode my bike the trail was less wet and I started to trust the tires more and more. After quite a few miles now, I am starting to really appreciate and respect these tires in semi-dry conditions. Python Golds are a fairly heavy tire so I probably will use a Maxxis Worm Drive 430 or Kenda Kozmik Lite on racing courses that are fairly flat. On race courses with a variety of terrain; Python Golds or Geax Sedona 200s will be my weapon of choice. What impresses me about this tire the most is that air pressure can be run as low as 34 PSI which leads to a comfortable ride. I have had no problems with tubes being blown out at 34 PSI yet and my rims have stayed true too! In dry conditions, the Python Golds carve corners well and climb like the bad a!@ snake they are named after. I have talked to some of my other xc friends that are using them and they share similar stories about not liking them real well after the first ride. I say give these tires a chance and you will soon realize why a top rider such as Cadel Evans uses them for some xc events. If I were a free riding kind of guy, I would probably stick with WTB Velociraptors or something else with more tread. If you like to have one of the most unique tire designs on the market, give these bad boys a test ride today. I bet you will learn to appreciate them like I have during the past few months.
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Submitted by
seth
a Cross Country Rider
from Lancaster, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
dirty ones
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great traction in hard pack and loose dry stuff.
Just can't break them lose climbing.
Work in deep sand.
Low pressure is the way to go.
Weaknesses:
Cut a sidewall on a sharp rock. Still got me home. Really could happen to any tire.
When new they throw sandy gravel at you for the first two dirt miles.
The best tire I've ever used. I hope they never stop making them. The yellow ones look great on the 2000 Mavic CrossRides with the yellow hubs! I live in a dry semi-desert area so I can say how they work in mud. I love them!
$ 40.00
Overall Rating:
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