Submitted by
Ben Niceknownya
a Weekend Warrior
from Grand Junction, CO Date Reviewed: November 19, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Gunny's
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Grass Roots
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, good grip in most conditions encountered in GJ (dry loose, dry hard pack, rock, and slick rock)
Weaknesses:
Not a good front, not good in mud, not good in wet
Bike Setup:
Blur LT2
Bottom Line:
I'd recommend it for a rear. I might use it as a front for an endurance event, maybe. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who rides in wet or muddy conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Shenzhen, China Date Reviewed: November 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Stan's, Farmington AR
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Very smooth riding, FAST! Feels very responsive.
Weaknesses:
I'm a little skeptical of how they handle wet conditions
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Scorpion, Specialized crossmax, various bontragers.
Bike Setup:
TREK 6000, XT everything, Epicon Fork, Thompson seat post
Bottom Line:
feels great riding pavement and hard pack. I haven't tried mud, but its the dry season here and I've been riding mostly light trails and urban lately.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hala514
a Cross Country Rider
from SouthEast Michigan Date Reviewed: September 30, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Maybury or TreeFarm
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came on my bike
Strengths:
Yep, just like everyone says, very low rolling resistance. Couldn't believe I matched my fastest lap time at my local trail without even really trying.
Weaknesses:
Sucks in mud and bouncing off of roots. (worse than I expected)
Similar Products Used:
Velociraptors, Captain Crunch
Bike Setup:
07 Specialized FSR Expert. + some other crap I put on.
Bottom Line:
This is for the 2.35. Running at 40 psi, but needs to be lower. Currently mounted front and rear.
Bottom Line: Good for rear, Very Bad for front.
I went ahead and put in a tube based on sidewall concerns listed.
Just like everyone says, really fast!
I was nervous about cornering, but rode 21 miles and gained confidence. Yeah they work fine for hardpack.
The tires SUCK in mud. (even a little bit of mud) I learned this the hard way when I wrecked hard earlier today. It rained two days ago and the trail was basically dry except for the occasional puddle. I came up to a puddle, tried to ride the edge of it instead of going through the center, and the front tire slid right out from under me. I landed in the mud.
Another weird thing is that when the rear tire encounters an off-camber root (meaning not going DIRECTLY over it), the rear tire slides out to the side instead of just going over the root. This is true even if you are going in a straight line. I got used to this, not a big deal.
I don't ride when it is really muddy, so I am going to stick with this tire in the rear. But DEFINATELY changing the front tire (maybe to the Nevegal? everyone seems to like this one).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Baeksen
a Cross Country Rider
from Denmark Date Reviewed: September 19, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with the bike
Strengths:
Rolls very fast
Good traction on the back in dry and semi wet conditions
Good cornering in dry conditions
Fells bigger than it actually is
Weaknesses:
Very little traction when things turn slippery, especially on the front tire, but the tires are in my opinion not made for wet stuff.
I use the SB8 on the back both for training and for racing as long as the trail is relatively dry.
I don't use it on the front anymore, not that it can't be used as a front tire, I just like to have a more forgiving front tire with more grip when cornering.
In my opinion a great summer/dry condition tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RookieRider
a Cross Country Rider
from Silkeborg, Denmark Date Reviewed: August 28, 2009
Favorite Trail:
XC with nice downhill sections!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
- Very fastrolling in dry conditions
Weaknesses:
- Slippery in mud, especially when used as front tire
- Weak sidewalls
Similar Products Used:
- Kenda Nevegal 2.1 DTC and StickE
Bike Setup:
- Giant XTC1 '09 with Nevegal 2,1 DTC front and SmallBlockEight 2,1 DTC rear
Bottom Line:
The SB8 came with my XTC1.
The SB8 is a very fastrolling tire in dry conditions, and it's even ok as a rear tire in moist/wet conditions - traction is surprisingly good! Cornering stability is ok.
Dangerous to use as a front tire in muddy conditions - ZERO grip! Had quite a few crashes until I switched the front tire with a Kenda Nevegal 2.1 DTC :o)
The SB8 has weak sidewalls compared with the Nevegals.
Recommendable as front and rear tire on dry surface, or as a rear tire when the ground is semi- muddy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pat p.
a Cross Country Rider
from colonie new york Date Reviewed: August 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Real fast. 0 rolling resistence
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
everything out there
Bike Setup:
stumpjumper
Bottom Line:
Kenda put the fun into trail riding with this tire. I am running the 1.95 up front and it behaves like something mucm bigger. They are a joy to pedal. So smmmmmmmmooooooooooooooooooooooth!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
29er_convert
a Weekend Warrior
from Iowa City, Iowa Date Reviewed: August 9, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
This is for the 29x2.1 size.
Low rolling resistance. "Variable traction control" through PSI amounts.
Weaknesses:
Beading and side wall separation.
Similar Products Used:
Continental Mountain King, WTB Vulpine and NanoRaptors.
I recommend it for XC use only. The uphill section with them is really good, much better if you use it at 50-60 PSI on the rear wheel in asphalt, 40-45 PSI on the trail. Even if you use it in 2.10, do not put it on the front wheel except if you have tried it before with a similar tire like a Larsen MiMo, for example...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eatmorecarp
a Racer
from Asheville, NC Date Reviewed: July 29, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Pisgah
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$31.00
Purchased At:
bikebling
Strengths:
light, high volume, fast rolling
Weaknesses:
tendency to pack up w/clay type mud (but what doesn't?), slips on wet roots (again, not many don't)
Similar Products Used:
IRC mythos, Continental explorer pro, panaracer fire xc, WTB's.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz superlight w/SID Team
Bottom Line:
The first ride I did on these I got out early in the morning in fog after a night of 1.5" of rain and rode on some of the more technical trails in the area. This means roots, more roots, loose rocks, buried rocks, and more roots. The trails were wet all over, but light to medium mud in some places and puddles. I couldn't believe it but these tires did great! Of course they slipped some on wet roots, but not as much as a Mythos would and they bit well into the trail even when wet, cornered fine, wet rocks not really a problem. They will pack with mud a little, but shed it quickly. I love the large volume! I run about 35 psi both, tubes, and the tread in the rear is reversed when the ground is wetter. Overall good tires, but I will use a 2.1 Nevegal up front in the winter for more bite in the leaves, and maybe switch the rear out too, but we'll see.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zvh_MT
a Cross Country Rider
from montana Date Reviewed: July 20, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very grippy. Light weight.
Weaknesses:
thin side walls.
Bottom Line:
I like the feel of these but like others I has troubles with the side getting torn up. I might of had a too little air pressure at the time but still was very surprised. Couple of pinch flats and ruined sidewalls mean i will stay away from this in the future, but if you ride on hardpacked trails with out ANY sharp rocks lying around this may be what you are looking for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mrbill_89509
a Weekend Warrior
from Reno, NV, USA Date Reviewed: July 14, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Traction on hard conditions
Weaknesses:
Traction on loose conditions
Similar Products Used:
WTB Mutanoraptor
Bike Setup:
Stock Enduro
Bottom Line:
If you ride in the west (hard dry rocky conditions) this is an excellent tire. The less cover the better. It performs best on bare dirt and good up to 1/8 - 1/4 cover. Great traction in these conditions. The softer the dirt or the more the gravel, the worse it gets. Highly recommended for the right conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stepenliem
a Cross Country Rider
from Antioch Date Reviewed: June 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Black Diamond Mine
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Kenda booth in Sea O
Strengths:
Light and fast
Weaknesses:
Not as fast as Maxxis MaxxLite310
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis MaxxLite310
Bike Setup:
Turner FLUX
Bottom Line:
See my other review of MaxxLite310.
I found this tire to be light and fast, but not as fast as MaxxLite310. MaxxLite310 remain the fastest tire I have ever used. This Kenda tire is a tire for hardpack surface, fire trail type of surface. No issue going through fast downhill section and switchback. Reasonably good in sands (much better than MaxxLite). I have found a perfect combination for a XC hardpack surface type of riding: put Kenda Small Block in the front and MaxxLite310 in the back. Perfect set up. With this conbination I give this 5 chillis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
spgallo
a Racer
from Sacramento Date Reviewed: May 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Its a secret
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
These tires are incredible on hardpack. They roll really fast corner well. I am also impressed with the even lateral curvature of the tire which makes the bike handle really fast on twisty single track.
Weaknesses:
Use as intended there are none. However, they are a little loose on rocky terrain which is unavoidable on all but a few trails. They are expensive!
Great tire for smooth fast single track and racing. Not intended for technical rocky terrain or heavy mud.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pipexp
a Cross Country Rider
from Temuco, Chile Date Reviewed: May 21, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
Light weight, very low resistence, looks great
Weaknesses:
rolling band spent fast, bad in mud.
Bottom Line:
if used it much in road rolling band spent really fast, use only offroad where works pretty good, specialy dry terrains. no way rolling in mud.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tommillers
a Weekend Warrior
from Las Angeles CA Date Reviewed: May 12, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Rubber Beaver traill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
bikesdirect.com
Strengths:
Low profile, smoother rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
WEIGHT! Bad in mud, tight packed knobs clog up with mud easily.
Similar Products Used:
Many tires, tubed and tubeless.
Bike Setup:
Turner Flux.
Bottom Line:
Recently I purchased the Kenda Small Block 8 tire in the DCT 2.35 size, Kevlar folding version, for the front of my bike.
I ride a lot of streets in additions to trails, and needed a smooth rolling tire.
I dont know why everyone in this post thinks this tire is so lightweight? The packaging clearly states that the tire wieghs 590 grams +/- 25g. That means at the most this tire should have weighed 615 grams. Thats 1.35 pounds.
Well I weighed this tire on 2 digital scales, both came in a 694 grams, thats 1.53 pounds. Thats almost a quarter of a pound more then the packaging and websites state.
Clearly a lie!
I dont know about you guys, but I am sick and tired of bike and component manufacturers lying to us about how much their products weigh, and then expect us to pay a premium for them.
3 Chillies for value.
1 for Kenda being a bunch of big fat lyers!
Poo Poo to Tomac for putting his name on these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
p_mac
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, AB Date Reviewed: May 3, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Bike Cafe, Canmore
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, very light, durable over rocks, great cornering & traction.
Weaknesses:
Very few, if used as intended
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal, Hutichson Python
Bike Setup:
IBIS Mojo
Bottom Line:
I've only used these for a few rides now. I picked up a pair as I was looking for a lighter everyday riding and racing alternative to my Kenda Nevegals (which I really like).
Like the Nevegals, they run fast(er) and corner very well. Even when the going got muddy, I was surprised they were able to get as much traction as they did. Although I will use the Nevegals for the spring riding as trails thaw and go back to these once it's hardpack heaven.
Bottom line: if you're a trail rider and can only afford one set of tires, go with the Nevegals. If you spend too much of your income on bikes (like i do) these make a great second set of wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
redrook
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotland Date Reviewed: April 29, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
theBikeWorx
Strengths:
Paid £40 pair
Fantastic grip and cornering. For street/park/DJ and dry trail its brilliant. Very last and very fast.
Weaknesses:
None, it does exactly what its meant to.
Saying it's rubbish in the mud is like saying a weakness of a boat is that it can't fly. It's not designed to.
Similar Products Used:
Holy Roller, High Roller, Kenda Nevegal
Bike Setup:
Kona Shred (frame)
Bottom Line:
For park and street it can't be beat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MadMax68
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles, Ca. Date Reviewed: April 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Sullivan
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$48.00
Purchased At:
Helen's
Strengths:
Light, Fast.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal
Bike Setup:
Specialized Enduro S-Works
Bottom Line:
These are great tires...for the rear. Throw them in the front and get ready for some face plants! I bought them for speed and weight and was quite surprised at the rear grip they had, especially on really steep singletrack, even better grip than the Nevegal, so I decided to throw one in the front, bad idea! One ride and two falls later the Nevegals were back in the front and the 8's in the back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Danimal
a Weekend Warrior
from Eagan, MN Date Reviewed: March 30, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Lebanon Hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
2nd hand off a frien
Strengths:
Excellent tire for Minnesota Hardpack. Sticks well on technical man-made obstacles. Rolls superfast.
Weaknesses:
A little on the heavy side. Sucks in mud, but the legal mountain bike trails out here we can't ride while they are wet so it really is a non-issue for me.
2005 Cannondale Prophet, DT Swiss 540 Tires, Hayes Nines DH w/8" rotors, Small Block 8s 26 x 2.35s.
Bottom Line:
Excellent tire if you want scary speed in hardpack or tacky trails. Not too good in mud but since we can't ride legal trails in MN when it is wet it is a non-issue for me. I love these tires, they rail corners and I don't need to swap them if I decide to go on a paved trail ride with the wife.
Good all around tire unless you are riding in the muck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ozzybmx
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia Date Reviewed: February 23, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Wiggle
Strengths:
They work with the loose over hardpack ozzy trails.
Weaknesses:
It took me a bit of time to seal them with stans due to the very thin sidewalls.... treating them gently over heavy rock as i know there is an inevitable sidewall slice on the cards.
Similar Products Used:
loads of tyres, none in the summer hardpack class , going to try larsens on another bike.
Bike Setup:
Enduro
Bottom Line:
I was told to get these buy a friend , i was losing the bike on dry hardpacked and loose over hardpack corners ,i got these on and im now going round the same corners faster ...as if i was on rails . 5 for the value , 4 for the crap sidewalls .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
marke
a Cross Country Rider
from lakeland Date Reviewed: February 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Carter Road
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Universal
Strengths:
No flats in 3 years of riding the 26 inch version and 2 years on the 29er. Fast rolling yet great traction in all conditions, not as suitable as a front tire in loose situations as the small knobs will wash out.
Weaknesses:
I've bought 6 of them and 2 were so out of round it was ridiculous. I sent them back and to Kendas credit got a refund. Also just purchased 2 Kenda Kwicker 29er street tires and one is just a lump, completely out of round. No more Kendas for me.
Similar Products Used:
A lot of different brands
Bike Setup:
26 inch stumpy and 29er Fisher
Bottom Line:
They are great tires when they are not a complete lump of oatmeal. Quality control, is that in Kenda's vocabulary.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brain3278
a Cross Country Rider
from Birmingham, AL Date Reviewed: November 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Cahaba Cycles
Strengths:
light weight, low rolling resistance, accurate tire dimensions (2.10), Good grip, comfortable for longer rides. Good on dry trails
Weaknesses:
Doesn't come in a 2.2 or 2.25. During hard breaking It would skid a bit more. I think this was mostly due to the fact that I had most of my weight on the front tire, but I did not have this with other tires ie.(high rollers, michelin all mountain expert). I would not use this on muddy trails
Similar Products Used:
I don't know that I would call any of the other tires I've used similar. Maxxis high rollers 2.1 & 2.35 wire bead, IRC Mythos XC 2.1's kevlar bead, Michelin All mountain 2.2's kevlar bead, bontragers (whatever came on the old trek I had).
Bike Setup:
2007 Iron Horse MKIII Comp. 5" full suspension on a 21" XL frame. I weigh around 225 lbs + camel back. 29 psi in the Michelin All Mountain 2.2 up front and 39 psi in the Kenda Small Block Eight in the rear.
Bottom Line:
I've only put about 4 rides in on these but they have done well under my weight. They are great cross country tires. Good for climbs, descents, and in the flats. The only area that lacked was under intense downhill breaking. I will easily sacrifice that for the rest of the benefit of using this tire.
This is a great tire, use it for what it is intended and you will like it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dgangi
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: October 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Any one I am riding on
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Various
Strengths:
Rolls fast, relatively grippy (more than you think), light weight
Weaknesses:
Sidewalls tear easily, tread wears very fast (DTC version), sloppy workmanship (2 tires had noticeable "weaves" in the tread as the tire would spin)
I really like these tires...especially as a rear. I'd like them even more if they would last more than a few rides. Rocks shred these things. I've gone through 3 tires this year - 2 due to premature tread wear and 1 because of a huge tear in the sidewall. Friends of mine have had similar experience as well.
If you ride in an area w/o sharp rocks, these tires would be great. But if you ride in the southwest, forget it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
uncomplientspud
a Cross Country Rider
from Ajax Date Reviewed: October 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Seaton trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
light, roll well, good grip, love the way the tread pattern looks
Weaknesses:
DEEP mud, but it is not a tire made for the mud
Bike Setup:
xtc alliance
Bottom Line:
These tires are great. They are made to go fast on hard pack and that is what they do. However they are still a very good all around tire. Rocks, small and big, roots, leaves dirt, even sand. I have had these tires on all those and have no no problems. When the trail got wet the tires still kept going. Mud is even fine. THe only problem i had was that deep mud (like over 4 inches) gave me a problem. When you consider that they are a xc racing tire, they do great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
awphoto
a Racer
from West Berlin, VT USA Date Reviewed: October 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Millstone Hill
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Express
Strengths:
Fast, light, large air volume, cornering, climbing, traction
29er, XO Grip shift, XO RD, Stan's 29er 355, American Classic, Formula, 2x9 Race Face Turbine, Fox 29er, K-force Flat bar, Kona King Kahuna Scandium frame,
Bottom Line:
Much better tire than I expected, I compare all other tires to it. Great traction 20lbs with Stan's, corners in grass at speed, hard pack, soft loam, or anything but grease, which ethically you should not be riding in. I'm 155lbs, ride a 2x9 29er, and grind in most terrain. During hard cornering and when the traction breaks, it predictable, even and usable. It is Fast rolling and excelerates like a road tire. It handles stream beds and roots much better than a large knobby tire, you done have large knob quiver. I have been racing XC since 1992 so I understand that the riders technique has a tone to do with how a tire feels and works. If you depend on the tire to make up for poor technique then you need a big chunky tire. However, if you need a predictable tire that performs in 85% of New England conditions then this tire is great. I even do DH Style riding with these. I feel comfortable on them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
italiastraps
a Cross Country Rider
from Marina, CA Date Reviewed: October 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Fort Ord
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
BlueSkyCycling.com
Strengths:
Lightwight, Very Low Rolling Resistance, Climbs like crazy, Looks Cool
Weaknesses:
Not good as a front tire
Similar Products Used:
None. It's my 1st small tread tire
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F700
Bottom Line:
I tried this tire in the 2.1 width after I noticed a number friends and local riders running it. Put this tire on the back and you will notice an immediate difference. It feels light and it will climb loose steep grades when other tires will spin and lose traction. It doesn't look like it will climb well because of the small treads but IT REALLY DOES. Tried a 2nd one on the front and it is scary on loose conditions. Keep it only on the back in such circumstances. Overall, its a great rear tire. Run it there and you will pick up easy speed on cross country rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
triple-point
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Alamos, NM, USA Date Reviewed: September 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
perimeter
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Really light weight and really fast
Weaknesses:
Not grippy enough, very squirly, loss of control in loose gravel.
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Smoke/Dart
Bike Setup:
M2 hardtail
Bottom Line:
I bought these for the weight, and they are light. If your really good you can probably handle the lack of control in the turns. In fact, they make for a really interesting ride. On hard single track there is no problem. Midwestern XC folks would probably do well with these. Loose gravel, boulders, and all that other stuff we see in the southwest really casues problems for these tires. They are going on my commuter for the winter and I'm switching back to the smoke/dart combo. I'm giving them 3 chilis because they are probablyu great for what they were intended...but I'm not exactly sure what that was for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pitch
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff, AZ Date Reviewed: September 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Up in the Aspens!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Holy quick knobbies! Easily the fastest tire I have rolled on real mountain trails. I say this since I never really bought into the semi-slick tires for anything more than commuting. They are light and fast, shaving significant weight and rolling resistance from all other tires I have taken onto trails.
Weaknesses:
I feared this when I mounted them up, but was optimistic... the paper thin sidewalls will fail if you ride rocks. Mine did! Also, when the trails get too dry, there is just not enough bite in them to allow you to hold a line: great in a straight line, but I end up braking more on the downhills instead of carrying speed into the turns.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Nano's, Mutano's, Exiwolves, Kenda Nevegal
Bike Setup:
#1: GF Caliber 29'er
#2: Motobecane Outcast 29'er
Bottom Line:
Right after a rain, when the hardpack is sticky, these tires are fast and fun. My fave tire for the right conditions. However, when the mud gets deeper, or the trails get dry and dusty they will disappoint. If the sidewalls were tougher I'd run them more. Now, I will only ride them during the rainy monsoon season here in AZ when the tire fits the trail conditions better. I prefer them as a rear tire, not enough grab in the turns up front for my liking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johnny Hair Boy
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario Date Reviewed: September 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
anything fast
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
They are as close to perfect as a tire can be.
Weaknesses:
Nothing.
Similar Products Used:
Schwalbe RR (crap) Schwalbe furious freds. Nevegals, Roll x,
Bike Setup:
Epiphany
Bottom Line:
These tires are the best tires I have ever used. They are fast and grip to just about anything. I was surprised to find that they even are tolerable in mud. They converted to tubeless without to much fuss and do not leak air. I also have a set of the 700 by 35 cross version on my rigid bike ant they are also great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pedalitup
a Cross Country Rider
from Oregon Date Reviewed: August 24, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$36.00
Purchased At:
internet
Strengths:
They ride sweet due to high volume design. They roll fast. They hook up surprisingly well for the amount of tread and work very well in sand.
Weaknesses:
Possibly poor QC? One of my 2.1's has a wobble to the tread pattern regardless of what wheel I mount it on. The 2.35 and another 2.1 are good.
Similar Products Used:
The only other hi volume tires I've tried are WTB 2.1 nanoraptor and Mutano raptor 2.4's. The SB8 beats the nano hands down. The 2.4 Mutano raptors are great though they wear pretty fast.
Bike Setup:
Voodoo hardtail
Bottom Line:
These are the tires that finally convinced me high volume and low pressure wins over skinny and hi pressure. I run a 2.35 front at 27 and a 2.1 rear at 30 psi and weigh 130 lbs. In short, these tires make a noticeable difference in how I ride. I like how they make a cool sound at their limit of traction. Buy these if you ride lots of hardpack with a few sandy sections and you wont regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MultiRider
a Racer
from Colorado Date Reviewed: August 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Climbing rocks
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Strengths:
Relatively lightweight, rolls fast, good in most conditions
Weaknesses:
Loads up in really soft or mud, terrible on loose-over-hardpack
Similar Products Used:
Lots of tires
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575
Bottom Line:
I purchased a 2.1 for the front for XC racing. It rolls well, is light, and works very well in most terrain. But it is truly awful in mud (to be expected) and is very scary on loose-over-hardpack. In loose-over-hardpack, it pushes and skates and locks up easily. Very scary at speed on gravel roads or any trail with loose rocks on top.
Works pretty well on the back. Again - terrible in mud and loose-over-hard. But I liked it better on the back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
flyfishagain
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary Date Reviewed: July 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$32.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
I find these tires to be very smooth and quick rolling. I personally think they are great tires for the hard packed trails. I have also used them on my work commute they have performed great.
Weaknesses:
Nothing so far.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Klaw, Vermin
Bike Setup:
Giant Trance 1
Bottom Line:
These are very quick tire, definitely less agressive than other tires out there. I have had no issues with them in the corners. I have not tried them in mud as everyone says they are not good in those conditions. Highly recommend them as a commuter tire as well, if you do not want to ride slicks. They give you a little extra traction and still let you cruise.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kiwijames
a Racer
from Lafayette, CA Date Reviewed: July 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Joaquin Miller Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
OEM on Scott Spark
Strengths:
Fast and great for those sprints on the flats prior to the next climb. The accelerate well. Excellent on the smooth hard pack homogeneous soils it was intended for. Good suspension attributes. Float well over sand pits.
Weaknesses:
Not that grippy, especially in varied and loose terrain. Not good fun in rock gardens, off camber turns or descents that warrant a little more depth to the traction.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptors, Pana XC Fire Pro 127 TPI, Nevegal Tomac
Bike Setup:
Scott Spark, XT/XTR, Look Quartz, FL100RL, Dt Swiss Nude TC Shock, Dt Swiss X455 w/244hubs, Ritchey WCS bar/stem, Juicy 7 and Joplin. Pana Xc Fire Pro 127 TPI
Bottom Line:
First off the local terrain is not all hard pack, it constantly changes once you head into a another formation pushed up via tectonics every few miles. I thought they were going to be tits as they were spec'd on my carbon rocket's wheelset. What a disappointment, they slid everywhere on the loose loamy single track and were unsteady in the rock gardens. I used them on the same trails..and just didn't hang with the other tire options/combos I ride on. No issues with flats or anything, just lack of climbing traction and cornering in my area's terrain. I don't foresee any improvement in my opinion once the trails enter Winter conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
biffoz
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: June 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Water Tower
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Really great DJ tire. It's nice to have such a fast-rolling tire have a little tooth. Versatile: My trail rides have been easier and the faster roll is addictive. I find the front to let go a little early, but most xc tires have the same problem. I've been running a 2.35 Minion F 60a on the front and it's an awesome combination. Depending on the trail, I might run the SB8 on the front. Sick on DJ's; not noisy on ramps and skateparks. Killer tire.
Weaknesses:
Very thin sidewalls, but they're WAY lighter than Holy Rollers, so that's the trade off. I won't criticize front end grip because that's what you sacrifice for xc roll power.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Roll X Pro; Schwalbe Table Top; Holy Rollers; Specialized Enduro 2.4; Minions of all sizes; Blue Groove ST
Bike Setup:
Transition Bottle Rocket; Giant STP . . . I use the SB8 on both bikes. Bottle Rocket has SB8 rear and Minion 2.35 front; the STP has the SB8 on the front and a Schwalbe Table Top on the rear.
Bottom Line:
The Small Block 8 is a great tool. On the trail, I'll use it when I want more range. It's maybe the most versatile urban/dj tire out there. It's nice to have the extra grip compared to semi-slicks. Give 'em a try.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hugh Jass
a
from TO Date Reviewed: June 3, 2008
One of the best tires on the market. It rolls so smooth and fast, very light, and can take some corners. Very useful for street and trail riding. I highly recommend this tire
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles Molnar
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Canada Date Reviewed: May 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Don Valley
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Solutions
Strengths:
This is a fast rolling and smooth tire.
Weaknesses:
Price, but then it's expensive in Canada.
Similar Products Used:
Goodyear Mountain Dry.
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche 1.0
Bottom Line:
This is the 26x2.35 tire. I replaced the Kenda Nevegals that came as stock with the bike. The Small Block Eight rolls very fast and also have bite on dry dirt trails, I've never tried on wet surfaces. This is a great, great tire. Definetly buy this try instead of another brand.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Keyes
a
from City Date Reviewed: May 14, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance, low weight, good on hard/dry surfaces.
Weaknesses:
Not good in wet mud. There are better tyres out there for some aspects of off-road riding.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal 2.35
Bike Setup:
All-Mountain Giant VT
Bottom Line:
My review is for the 2.1" wire bead version.
Generally I find these awesome. They really transformed the feel of my ride comparred to 2.35" Kenda Nevegals. They make everything seem much smoother and easier which can make for a more pleasurable ride out. My only regret is that I would opt for the 2.35" versions now instead of 2.1" as I do miss the added volume, for this reason I find I have to be a bit more careful in rocky circumstances to reduce the chance of snake bites and rim damage, which can mean running higher than usual pressures to compensate which makes them less comfortable in the bumps and less grippy on loose surfaces.
I love these tyres for most of the riding I do. There are only very few instances where they're not the best choice, but for the vast majority of the time they perform admirably and the benefits of low rolling-resistance and weight more than make up for the odd shortcoming. This is going to depend precisely on what type of terrain you ride most and how. They're probably not going to suit DH, FR, or mud plugging at all. For most everything else they could be a strong choice. They're a good intermediate tyre between slicks and tractor tyres.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from melbourne Date Reviewed: May 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
windsor jumps
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came on 07 norco two50
Strengths:
Rolls great corners well grippy strong
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
kenda nevegal
Bike Setup:
dirtjumping; urban assault
Bottom Line:
this tire is great for urban riding as it can be pumped to 90psi and can go as low as 30psi. it's grippy on corners and with it's dual compound tires it still rolls great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Nyland
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: January 26, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
jenson USA
Strengths:
Light Weight. Rolls well off road. Very versatile.
Weaknesses:
Thin side walls means running tubeless is not an option. Reasonable rolling resistance on the road.
Well recomended. If you were looking to put them on your DJ rig I would probably think of trying holyrollers first as they roll much better on road and just as well off. The small weight gain is more insignificant then I thought it would be. But if your like me and want to try something different, these are the go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Curt
a Weekend Warrior
from Midway City Date Reviewed: January 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Porc
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$32.00
Purchased At:
Jensen
Strengths:
Light for it's size(600g) fast roller great hardpack grip, good floatation on flat ground, easy to find.
Weaknesses:
Poor loose ground traction (they pack up)
Similar Products Used:
Most 2.3-2.4
Bike Setup:
Cannondale 1fg
Bottom Line:
Works very well in the dry hardpack and slickrock, it's fast and a good tire if you ride to you're trails on the road.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Iwan Kemp
a Racer
from Cape Town, South Africa Date Reviewed: November 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Eden / Delvera Blk Route
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$290.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Factory Store
Strengths:
Fast rolling Great corner grip Great rear tire UST or non UST versions Fairly light for UST tire
Weaknesses:
Best suited to rear
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis, Michelin, Geax, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Titus MOto Lite II with RS Rev 426, SRAM XO / XTR mix
Bottom Line:
Great tire that outperforms all other tires I have tried on several bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bark dog
a Cross Country Rider
from Salem, Oregon USA Date Reviewed: November 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
mckenzie
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Santiam Bicycle
Strengths:
(2.35 version!) Great volume/bump absorbsion; very good rolling resistance; surprisingly good traction, even in some medium-wet dirt.
Weaknesses:
Not a mud tire (duh). Slips quickly over wet roots (double duh). Not free.
Similar Products Used:
Nevegal 2.35; Adrenaline 2.0; Roll-X 2.0.
Bike Setup:
'05 Stumpjumper FSR -- and '02 Gary Fisher HKEK converted to singlespeed. (I use the Smallblock on both.)
Bottom Line:
(I have the 2.35 version.) It's only been about 4 months but I think this tire is outstanding. It has the volume of the Nevegal 2.35, which makes it incredible at smoothing out the bumps if you run it around 30-35psi (I do and I'm 195 lbs now). I was very, very surprised at the grip! The Nevegal 2.35 beats 'em hands down in terms of grip, but the Smallblock still has great braking and cornering even when there's some wetness in the dirt. They are by no means a mud tire (they'll clog and slip) but they're no disaster when the trail turns a little wet (another surprise). That said, I'm using them mostly for summer/dry/dusty trails.
They're not quite as fast rolling as I'd hoped, but close enough (they beat the snot out of the Nevegal 2.35 on that). I'd still use them for racing, although I'm not the a serious competitor at all. Not surprisingly, they spin out quickly on wet roots and make a unique, loud "brrrrrp" when they do.
Get 'em for dry / medium dry conditions, trail riding and maybe some racing. 3 chilis on value only because I paid a lot for 'em. 5 Chilis overall because, well, they do what they're supposed to do: kick butt in everything but mud.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daryl King
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, Idaho US Date Reviewed: November 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Santa Ana Mtns SoCal
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Got for free
Strengths:
Very low rolling resistance, sticky, super fast going down hill
Weaknesses:
The same things that probably make them great for XC racers on groomed courses, made them kinda scary on my trail ride today
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegals, Blue Groove, Maxxis
Bike Setup:
5 Spot Trailbike
Bottom Line:
Long climb today, hardpack, some loos sand over hardpack, and loose rock over hardpack. They seemed to break loose to easy going up over the loose over Hardpack, but I had my suspensions locked out.
Going down, super fast, fastest tires I've ridden, but kinda scary - not enough bite on the front on the loose rock over hardpack. I took it off the front and put the nevegal back on the front. We'll see how it does as a rear tire with a more bitey front.
I've ridden enough to know these would be an exceptional XC race tire and that is soley what my rating is based off of.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Date Reviewed: October 22, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
bicycle showcase
Strengths:
fast, grabs on the turns, all terrain tire
Similar Products Used:
Smokers,
Bike Setup:
Scott Scale 10 Scram XO w/ standard Scott Tubless tires
Bottom Line:
Scott tires come now where near these Kenda Small Blocks
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Abel
a Cross Country Rider
from South Korea Date Reviewed: October 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
NA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Sticky, Rolls Fast, Climbs Awesome, Corners Great, Takes bumps, roots rocks well, Great on rocks, sand, dry pack and slighly wet surfaces. All around great XC/all mountain tire. Highly Suggest to anyone.
Weaknesses:
I've heard mud but haven't gotten that chance yet.
Similar Products Used:
NA
Bike Setup:
2006 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp, Stock Shocks 2XFox, I am 210lbs 5ft 8in rider and run the rear at 32 and front at 34.
Bottom Line:
Great Tire, Fast, Sticky, Fun.....Good on climbing dry loose stuff. A++++++++++++
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a
from Tucson, AZ Date Reviewed: October 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Bootleg Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Very fast rolling, very good grip on most surfaces! You can really maintain momentum with these. It helps a ton with long climbs.
Weaknesses:
With the short knobs, tire imperfections and wobble are much more noticeable (visibly, as I can't actually feel it).
Very sketchy at too high of a pressure, keep them low. They still roll very fast with low pressure so don't worry about that.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptors, WTB Wierwolfs
Bike Setup:
IronHorse MK3 Sport
Bottom Line:
I ride almost exclusively on pack and loose-on-pack and rocky terrain, all very dry conditions. I'm running 2.35 front and rear at 30/34 psi (I'm about 230lbs with camelback). They are mounted running ramp-forward front with reverse-rear direction (for climbing traction) and they are absolutely fantastic!
In the photos, the knobs look a lot shorter than they really are. The 2.35 is very plush feeling at the above pressures and makes for very confident cornering and very smooth floating over embedded rocks. They also float over sand pretty well in a straight line. They have loads of traction at higher speeds and even climbing out of the saddle.
My favorite part of this tire is how fast it rolls considering it's grippiness. It feels like a semi-slick but grips like a knobby. I feel like I'm seriously hauling butt on the trail with these with minimal effort. They really accelerate out of dips and slow turns with ease! They make certain death climbs possible for me given the low rolling resistance and ability to maintain momentum!
I've considered a Nevegal on the front, which I still might try. But I'm skeptical as to how much or IF it will help other than make it feel slower.
My only gripe with this tire as that both of them are wobbly. I thought I wasn't mounting them properly but it really is just the tires. I was little pissed at first, but once I got them on the trail I didn't notice it at all so I don't care anymore.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Austin
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: September 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Very good traction in just about any trail condition you throw at it, low rolling resistance.
Weaknesses:
none thus far
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey Zmax
Bike Setup:
Ti Kish hardtail w/ XTR/XT/CK/Mavic/Thomson/ETC..
Bottom Line:
I have only used them for two weeks now, but am more than pleased with what they are capable of. I used the Ritchey Zmax tires for 5years, and had no problems with them, but I do notice an improvement on traction (specifically where I used to get two wheel drifts on the local trails)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Surestick Malone
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, QC, Canada Date Reviewed: September 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Coeurs Vaillants
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Martin Swiss
Strengths:
-Low rolling resistance - I'm using the 2.35s at 30PSI Front/35PSI Rear & they roll noticeably faster than the 2.1 WTB Velociraptors I was using previously and the 1.9 Specialized Team Controls I had on the hardtail. -Grip these things have grip even on the many roots we have here in the east, they seem to let go fairly progressively too. -Weight - these aren't heavy tires. This combined w/low rolling resistance means they accelerate well.
Weaknesses:
They do pack up with mud really easily. That said, they do seem to retain a good portion of their grip even when filled with mud. They are not a mud tire though.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptors Specialized Team Control
Bike Setup:
GT iDrive XCR2000. 4" Front & rear. Z3 Bomber front & Pushed Fox Float-R in the rear. Basically not quite enough travel for All mountain & too heavy to be an XC bike ;-)
Bottom Line:
I'd buy them again in a heartbeat. Probably the biggest advantage they have is the fact they roll so fast. This means you can get away with a bigger tire & the advantages that that entails (extra grip from the size & the lower pressure you can run and extra comfort) without paying the price in rolling resistance, or in this case much extra weight.
Just don't use them in the mud. a dry trail with a few muddy holes here & there isn't a problem but otherwise...
I'm giving them 5 chilis overall & 5 for value as the price is competitive w/other higher end tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Flip_B
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: September 18, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Light and low rolling resistance so compared to most tyres they are very very fast. Did I say fast?
Weaknesses:
Disappointing - don't be taken in by the marketing bull, these are not as grippy as claimed. If the terrain is uniform hardpack/loose topsoil then they seem okay. Throw in any loose objects larger than a peanut and they're all over the shop as the tread can't get purchase.
Additionally the tyres were warped from new (one slightly, the other moderately) - although it didn't affect the function I got sick of peeps telling me that my wheel was buckled...
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal, Blue Groove, Panaracer Fire XC, Continental Cross Country, WTB Velociraptor, Panaracer Smoke/Dart, Ritchey Z-Max, few others I can't remember
Bike Setup:
XTC, Rebas
Bottom Line:
Fast in a straight line, would consider for race day when you need a little more grip than semi slicks. For trail riding I would not consider these suitable unless you want straight line speed above all else OR you ride in hard baked dirt.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne
a Cross Country Rider
from Guadalupe, California Date Reviewed: September 13, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Sea Otter
Strengths:
Not tested
Weaknesses:
Side wall has buldges that I would not trust riding anywhere on.
Bottom Line:
I am trying to get a replacement from Kenda but I have to jump through some hoops to get it. I hope the rest of the Kenda riders won't have to do what i am doing. I know that if Mr. John Tomac saw this signature tire of his it would be in the trash. Tire was mounted on a mavic X717 rim with a Kenda blue stipe tube matched for that 2.1 tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Scottish Borders Date Reviewed: September 10, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Wiggle
Strengths:
Very Fast Very Light Better all rounder than you would expect
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp
Bottom Line:
I've used these for most of the British summer, which has been really wet. I know that these are meant to be for dry and dusty condition, but they seem to shed mud surprisingly well. I had to use them for Selkirk Merida which was a mud bath, they held up just fine. Not the best tyre for these condition, but I've ridden worse.
In the dry they are simply superb
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gregg
a Weekend Warrior
from thousand oaks, ca. Date Reviewed: August 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
wildwood park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
really great traction coupled with very low rolling resistance- the "holy grail" of tire performance. plenty of audible warning before they break loose.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
motoraptors, kenda nevegals, irc notos, fire xc's, velocirapters, fisher fastrax, ground controls (i've been around awhile)
Bike Setup:
giant trance x2- which really rocks- can you say "perfect trail bike?"
Bottom Line:
i'm running the 2.35 version for ultimate float over soft stuff. so far this is the best tire i've ever used. truly incredible grip for a tire with such small knobs. just before you loose traction it sounds like velcro separating-the early warning anti-biff feature. fast on pavement/hardpack, sticky in the soft stuff- what more is there?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keith Q
a Cross Country Rider
from Cary, NC Date Reviewed: July 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Lake Crabtree
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Light weight, fast, good traction
Weaknesses:
Non-UST version - sidewalls may be too thin for sealant
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Karma, Panaracer Dart & Smoke, Ritchey Z?
Bike Setup:
Giant Anthem1 frame, custom build
Bottom Line:
This is for the 26 x 2.1 non-UST version. I bought these for my first XC race and am very impressed. After doing a lot of reading/inquiring on the forums for a lightweight, fast, grippy tire for XC racing, I initially got a set of Kenda Karmas and found them to really suck on anything w/loose surface. Frustrated, I went back to the drawing board. Based on the reviews below, Kenda Small Block 8's sounded like a great choice, so I bought a set from Jenson. They were supposedly in stock when I ordered, but then I find out they're not and had to wait a couple weeks. Luckily, I still had a couple weeks to try them out before my first race. My initial impressions were very good - light and fast, and they actually grip quite well in the dry/loose surfacy conditions I've been riding in lately. Thanks to the guys who posted below, I finally scored a tire that lives up to the hype. I run super-light tubes in them instead of Stan's sealant, as I found when trying to run Stan's w/o tubes in the non-UST Karmas, there were a lot of pinhole leaks in the sidewalls and read reports of the same (below) with non-UST Small Block 8's. They held up perfectly in my first XC race, got me the win by 3 minutes in Beginner 30+ (I'm 44). Bottom line - these tires rock!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Juanzelli
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: July 19, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
Kenda Rider Support
Strengths:
Light and fast
Weaknesses:
No good in hydrated soil
Similar Products Used:
Panaracer Fire XC, Kenda Blue Groove/Nevegal
Bike Setup:
Singlespeed
Bottom Line:
I recently moved from Atlanta to San Francisco. These tires didn't hook up well on Georgia trails due to pine straw and loosely-packed dirt. When riding the hard-packed trails of the Bay Area, these tires work quite well for XC-type stuff. If you are going to bomb hills, there are basically no side knobs for cornering at speed so I wouldn't advise this tire. They roll really fast and are really light. I weight 175 and have only one flat due to a thorn. My girlfriend rides them on her RacerX and likes them too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R. P.
a Cross Country Rider
from Folsom, CA Date Reviewed: June 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Too many to say
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$46.00
Purchased At:
Bycicle Plus
Strengths:
Great rolling speed, cornering, hard pack performance
Weaknesses:
Sidewalls, awkward fit, too many flats
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis High Roller Semi-Slick
Bike Setup:
Various
Bottom Line:
This tire is fast and furious. Buy it if you want a fast performing XC tire. The only problem is that you tend to get too many flats (I've had 7 flats so far and I've only ridden it for around 250 miles). From what I read here, the 200+ guys may have problems with it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard Price
a Cross Country Rider
from Mammoth Lakes, ca, USA Date Reviewed: June 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Yost Meadows
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Kenda Booth Fontana NMBS
Strengths:
Great tread design, fast rolling, and lots of grip. Small but numerous knobs grab lots of ground. Corners great. Have ridden this tire a lot in Mammoth where we have no dirt, just sand and it works great. Purchased a tire from the Kenda booth during the NMBS race in Fontana. Lots of the pros were using these tires on the sandy but fast course. They had a promoting going on as they were one of the sponsors of the race. Buy a tire and they would set it up for you. I purchased a 26X 1.95 non tubeless tire, to set up tubeless(stans) for my rear tire. They set up the tire on a stans rim with the compressor and stans goop began spraying out of lots of little holes in the sidewalls. The guy running the kenda booth who set up the tire then said, "All of these small block eights have lots of holes in the sidewalls, and they never set up tubeless." He then said, "Since there is stans goop in the tire we can not warrantee it." Needless to say i was not too happy, as i had just spend over 200$ at the kenda booth. The tire held air for the race but will not hold air for more than 4-5 hours.
Weaknesses:
Can't set up non tubeless tire tubeless with stans. TO many holes in the sidewalls. Poor productions standards and quality controll standards at Kenda. Poor customer service at the Kedna booth.
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis Larsen
Bike Setup:
Scott scale carbon ht, ac hubs, stans rims. Fast race set up.
Bottom Line:
Great tire tread design. Poor productions standards and quality. Very poor customer service from the Kenda booth at the NMBS races. If they knew that these tires never set up tubeless because of the sidewall problems they should not have offered to set up the tire. Especially if they would not warantee the tire after it was set up with stans goop. I would definately recommend this tire, but the company is questionable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aaron
a Racer
from murfreesboro Date Reviewed: June 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
sewanee
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
moab
Strengths:
almost zero rolling resistance. sturdy in the turns, bites well on hard pack as well as rock. outlast michelins 3 to 1
Weaknesses:
if the trail is soupy you shouldn't ride them. but you're not supposed to ride a trail when its wet anyways right? snake creek race??
Similar Products Used:
pythons, michelins
Bike Setup:
2004 obed litespeed, rockshox sid team world cup, xtr, mavic, ritchey carbon risers, thompson elite stem and post, raceface crank, chris king headset.
Bottom Line:
hey if you're serious about winning on single track xc then check these out. i noticed a big difference and i actually took first on my first race with these. i swear by them and if you ask anyone in the south east i'm sure they will agree. awesome tire, great tread life, super fast, and sticks in the corners...what more can we ask for?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a
from Modesto, CA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Similar Products Used:
WTB Mutanoraptor 2.4 and WTB Nanoraptor 2.1
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Bullit with trail riding build
Bottom Line:
I really like the 2.35 version of this tire. I had problems pinch flatting all 2.1 Kenda models used in the rear...but I'm 230 lbs! So I decided to try the 2.35 and they work great. I mostly use them on hard pack and they have become my permanent XC/trail tires. Super-low rolling resistance! And the 2.35 is light. When things get rough I swap them out for 2.35 Nevegals front and rear...another permanent set-up for me. Highly recommend both models!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BigToe
a Weekend Warrior
from Prescott, AZ Date Reviewed: May 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Granite Basin
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$37.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Light, fairly fast rolling, good grip on hardpack, super supple ride.
Weaknesses:
Lightweight casing makes tire more prone to punctures/failure.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Small Block 8 UST, Kenda Nevegal UST, Hutchinson Python NG MRC High UST, IRC Mythos XC, Maxxis Larson TT
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Uber V 6x6, Maverick DUC32, 5th Element Air, Mavic 823 wheelset, Avid Juicy Carbons, SRAM X.O drivetrain, Shimano Saint Crank, blah blah blah...
Bottom Line:
This review is for the UST version of the SB8. I had them on my bike for 3 months. First off, I found that these tires had a tendency to display some tread squirm at higher air pressures. Once I dropped the pressure down, they handled predictably and they were very supple, making for a very comfortable ride, although this made them more suceptible to damage. My opinion is that they are a pretty good tire for hardpack conditions, fairly fast rolling and they corner well, but there are better tires out there. In loose over hard, they are merely ok, with occasional but controllable slippage on climbs. I wasted the rear tire when a smooth rock somehow nearly ripped one of the knobs in the center of the tread completely off. In looking at the rock, I have no idea how that could have happened, but it did. The hole was not bigger than 1/4" inch, but even 2 scoops of Stans failed to seal it. I really wanted to like these tires... but the fact that they are really sensitive to air pressures combined with the weak casing made me switch to something else. I have found that the Hutchinson Pythons I am currently running offer better handling and far superior traction for the terrain I ride (hardpack, rocks, loose over hard). I also think they roll faster.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Philip T
a Racer
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: April 26, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
28
Strengths:
Light weight and low rolling resistance. Excellent traction.
Weaknesses:
None so far but probably woudn't use these in the mud.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal, WTB Weirwolf
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur Classic, King Disc Hubs, Hayes HFX brakes
Bottom Line:
These tires delivered the goods at the Sea Otter Classic Super D! I live nearby and was able to pre-ride the course on 2 different occasions prior to race day. The course was fast and pretty much hard pack. I knew this race was going to be fast and I picked the Small Block Eight in a 2.1 front and back as the tire that I thought would get up to speed quick and allow me push a big gear. I put a lot of pressure into the tires (60 rear, 55 front) as the course conditions were hard pack. To make this story short I won my class (Men 50-59) by 30 seconds over 2nd place and I am putting a lot of credit on these tires to allow me to maintain my speed. Since then I have been riding the tires on the local Santa Cruz trails (at much lower pressure!) and so far I have been totally impressed and I am in no hurry to put my trust Nevegals back on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh Esfahani
a
from Cupertino, CA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
UCSC
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
syndicate
Strengths:
awsome cornering grip rolling resistance is aabsolutely awsome lightweight my favorite tire really really fast
Weaknesses:
not the best for all around riding
Similar Products Used:
kenda short tracker
Bike Setup:
black market riot with pike, and hope brake single speed santacruz blur 4x with float 32 X0 kit and chris king wheels
Bottom Line:
best tire out there for dry ridding awsome for urban as well no rolling resistance when dirtjumping corners great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Quezon City, Philippines Date Reviewed: April 6, 2007
Great on hard packed and powdery trails. Very minimal rolling resistance. I now get an extra 2 gears on uphills against my previous tires. Climbs great.
I'm still cautious on downhills since I find the knobs shallow.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pedro Azuela
a Cross Country Rider
from Baja, Mexico Date Reviewed: March 20, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
They roll fast, light, look trick, grip awesome...
Weaknesses:
None til now! We'll see how they wear being a low profile tire.
Similar Products Used:
Karma's, IRC mythos, some specialized enduro's, other's..
Bike Setup:
Specialized 40th anniv. disc only stumpy, fox float RLC100 up front, fox triad in the rear, hayes HFX to stop, XT cassette, XT crank, XT front and rear der., SRAM Rocket shifters, protaper bars, easton stem and setpost, wheels are heavy Alexi rims that need to upgarde...
Bottom Line:
I was surprised how good these tires grip, were i ride there is hardpack, loose over hard, a bit of sand, rocky sections, loose powdery soil, we call it silt in baja, they hook up very well, before these i had a set of mythos and man what a difference in rolling resistance!! First i tried them with 40psi, felt kinda weird, then tried with 34psi, felt very good, i weigh around 185lbs, ride in a lot of single track with different terrain variations in one outing so i needed a XC tire that would work in most conditions, these seem to fill the gap pretty darn good! will post another review when i can tell how fast they will wear..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from Chandler AZ Date Reviewed: March 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
Update: These tires are great, but like all tires, you have to find the right pressure to get the most out of them. I am 240lbs without gear, and run these at 30psi in the rear and 27 up front, and have had no durability issues. I think I'm going to try some Nevegals for more aggressive riding, but these tires really do work amazingly well for such a low profile tread.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brian gillette
a Weekend Warrior
from redding california USA Date Reviewed: February 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
satans crack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$42.00
Purchased At:
chaingang bike shop
Strengths:
I was surprised how good these tires grip,there is hardpack, loose shale over hard pack, lots of death cookies and mud on the same trails and they hook up very well except in mud of course, i love nevagals but these are so much faster. so i will give up a little traction to go much faster.
Weaknesses:
mud traps, but hey, how much goo mud do you ride in?
Similar Products Used:
continental vertical pro.
Bike Setup:
you know, two wheels that go round and round.
Bottom Line:
buy these tires and go as fast as you dare! ive pushed them to my limit on our craziest trails and they are great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rideglamis
a
from Orange Date Reviewed: January 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Great dry pack tire. The risk reward for using a light tire is heavily weighted to the reward side.
Weaknesses:
Tires Mud Up like no other. Very thin sidewall.
Bottom Line:
Great dry weather tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cool Breeze
a Weekend Warrior
from RSM CA Date Reviewed: January 30, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$44.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Very low rolling resistance. Light weight. Good cornering grip. Very predictable when they break loose.
Weaknesses:
Grip not as good as Nevegal's.
Similar Products Used:
Almost all of them.
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Moment and Intense 5.5
Bottom Line:
These are great tires. They roll very well especially compared to the Nevegal's. I use them as a rear with Nevegal's up front and the combo works great. They are not as confidence inspiring as the Negegal,s, but I wanted less rolling resistance. I use them with the Stan's and have had zero problems. The side walls are thin, so use a bit more air pressure then you normally would use, I am 205lbs. with gear and use 32 psi. Thin side walls = more air pressure. These are very similar to the Larson TT's but lighter.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PK
a Weekend Warrior
from MPLS Date Reviewed: November 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
fast ones
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
incredible grip, light weight, fast rolling
Weaknesses:
can mud up quick. like all kenda rubbers they wear fast
Similar Products Used:
most bikes have tires...
Bike Setup:
varies
Bottom Line:
2.35s - These are probably the best all-around tire I have ever used. At first glance they don't look like they'd hook up well, but for whatever reason they do. They also roll really fast and rail corners. Incredibly good on hardpack and even loose over hard. The soft compound makes them good on rock too. The only downside is the low, tight tread pattern muds up quick, and they can slick over, but I don't have to deal with muddy conditions very often. Wish they made a 2.5!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Chandler, AZ Date Reviewed: October 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Beyond bikes
Strengths:
Great traction, fast rolling
Weaknesses:
None so far
Bike Setup:
Sette Shadow hardtail
Bottom Line:
This is my first experience with Kenda tires, and it's a good one. The first time you see these tires you think there is no way they will have traction, but they do. They are better than most of the tires I have used. My Moto raptors hooked up better in sand, but thats it. These tires also roll incredibly fast. I haven't had any problem with sidewalls, and I ride here in AZ where most of the trails are pretty brutal on tires. I have a set of Nevegals that I haven't tried yet, but this tire suits my bike perfectly, so I'll be sticking with these. Great tire!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mudd
a Weekend Warrior
from Fallbrook, SoCal U.S.A. Date Reviewed: September 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$33.00
Purchased At:
Universal (Beyond Bikes price match)
Strengths:
Got Tomac's name and reputation on it. 50/60 Dual tread compound. L3R rubber down the center for longer life.
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevagal...kinda.
Bike Setup:
'06 Santa Cruz Nomad, DHX-5 coil, Marz 66, SRAM, etc....
Bottom Line:
I wanted a tire that would grip like the Nevegal, but light and exhibit low rolling resistance. The Small Block Eight seems to fill the bill! It excels on the hardpack and still hooks up in the soft sand....pretty amazing! 5 Flamin' Chili's all the way!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GUI
a Racer
from tobacco capitol Date Reviewed: September 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
All Good
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance surprising traction not squirmy at all.good volume
Weaknesses:
light fragile sidewalls. not an all conditions tire but hey thats not the intended purpose of this baby
Similar Products Used:
Exploders Escapes from Conti. IRC Serac Cinder etc. I am a tire junky WTB Weirflats. and so on and so on.
Bike Setup:
Steel Is Real Baby. Custom Steel hardtail with No Shimano parts on it Cane Creek Brakes DC 5 and Zonos Wheels, and SRAM and Race Face Goodies
Bottom Line:
Every good tool box should have an assortment of tools and so too should every good MTBr have an assortment of tires. No one tire does it all but for its intended purpose the Small Block does its job the best.Yes if you unweight it the tire will slip but keep it weighted dummy. It holds corners well climbs well brakes well and does surprisingly well on the wet stuff. Loose over hard, weight the tire like a mofo and she will do you proud. Dude, I seriously suggest not going Stans with this tire. Its light for a reason. It Ain't Got Jack For A Sidewall. Yes You can try, but don't you look like a DORK with white spooge oozing out your sidewalls??? Can you say FRED?? I knew you could..Imagine for a moment you get the tires to seal and hold air for more than two hours in this setup. Now stop and think how much Stans you have put in the tire.100 Grams 150 perhaps?? Dunno do you?? Its a lot trust me, and by then you have voided Kenda's warrenty. Just put a BLOODY Tube in these tires and ride them. They will give you zero problems like this. 3 flaming cornholios due to the huge mark up from dealer cost to MSRP. Dude. its over 100 %% cheers
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Noah
a Racer
from Fruita, CO Date Reviewed: August 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Kessel Run
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Over the Edge Sports
Strengths:
Awesomely low rolling resistance. Super light weight. Big and round (2.35)
Weaknesses:
Weak sidewalls (it's a Kenda)
Similar Products Used:
Larsen TT
Bike Setup:
2006 Rocky Mountain Slayer w/ Pike
Bottom Line:
I really like this tire. It has made my bike a much better pedeler. The difference in resistance rom the Blue Groove I previously had to this tire is instantly recognizable. I am a little apprehensive about the sidewall because I have ripped a few Kendas and this one in particular is very thin. I have a Blue Groove Stick-E in the front and this on the back and really have noticed improved speed and traction. My friends thought I was crazy for putting this tire on becasue it looks a little sissy, but I have been very impressed. The tire is very similar in feel to the Larsen TT which I also really like. That tire is seems much smaller comparitivly and would look silly on a long travel bike like mine. I'm using a heaveier tube to ensure against pinch flats and haven't gotten one yet. I wouldn't keep this tire on for DH at the resorts though. I don't think it is quite up to that task, but for the trails around here it rocks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill S.
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampa, FL Date Reviewed: July 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Wilderness Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Low rolling resistance on pavement and hard pack. Good traction and directional control for a small lug tire.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Adrenaline Pro and others
Bike Setup:
06 Stumpjumper FSR
Bottom Line:
I always felt that my Stumpjumper FSR was harder to pedal than my HT (even sitting with no bob). I read posts that the stock Specialized Adrenaline tires had pretty high rolling resistance so I switched the rear to a 26 x 2.1 Small Block Eight. The reduction in rolling resistance was obvious. I ride the same XC trail 3 times a week. My average speed increased by 0.5 mph and I was less tired at the end. So far I have not ridden in any mud or deep sand. In moderate sand and over slippery roots it seems as good as the Adrenaline (which is pretty good). This is a lightweight tire (504 g) and obviously not bullet proof, but I have not had any problems riding on Florida "shell roads" which are covered with crushed limestone and sharp pieces of Oyster shell. If it holds up over the next few months I will get one for the front. If you are looking for a lightweight, fast rolling, XC tire, give this a try.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
-b d-
a Cross Country Rider
from SoCal Date Reviewed: June 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
secret
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Larry
Strengths:
Smooooooth, light, fast.
Weaknesses:
Small knobs will let loose if you unweight them too much.
Similar Products Used:
Nevegal 2.35 & 2.1, Blue Groove 2.1, Diesel, Z-max
Bike Setup:
Turner 5spot & flux
Bottom Line:
These tires (front & rear 2.35) suprised me with how well they perform. I've only used them here in SoCal conditions, general trail riding (not hucking or racing...)and they work great. They roll smooth and fast, way faster than 2.35 Nevegals. Don't know about wear yet, but after the first few weeks, they still look good. These are a great "fat" alternative to 2.1 and smaller tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Newark, DE USA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Any and all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$36.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Fast! Fast! Fast! Great cornering bite. Feels cushy like a Karma, but feels faster and corners better. Can't be worse in mud than a Karma!
Weaknesses:
None so far. Will See how it performs in loose over hardpack and in wet and muddy conditions (although obviously not designed for these conditions) and how it wears.
Similar Products Used:
Karma DTC, Schwalbe Racing Ralph & Jimmy; Python; Conti Explorer & Twister
Bike Setup:
2001 Giant NRS w/every stock component replaced for x-country racing. Have only used this tire in the 1.95 size as a rear tire. Stan's tubeless conversion on this tire, running 30-38PSI depending on conditions. Currently running a true UST Racing Ralph on front tire, but when that
Bottom Line:
So far, have only ridden on pretty solid hardpack and this tire is hands-down the best for x-country racing under these conditions. When my front tire wears enough to replace, would like to try this tire on the front also. Buy it now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
