Central lugs: aggressive tread blocks for good penetration into the ground; closely spaced for low rolling resistance; offset in an 'S' pattern to decrease the effect of "sticking" to the ground; alternating diamond and square shapes to bite into the ground at a variety of angles.
Intermediate lugs: L-shaped for traction in acceleration and braking.
Outside lugs: widely spaced for good mud evacuation; multiple edges for constant grip at any angle.
Submitted by
rich
a Cross Country Rider
from cross plains, wi Date Reviewed: April 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
Rode on them four times before back tire sidewall blew. Two more rides and front tire blew. Both in the same place.
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey Speed Max, Mythos IRC
Bike Setup:
Fuel 100
Bottom Line:
These are great tires if you don't ride. I had two sidewall failures in 2 days. I've ridden for about 8 years and never had that happen before. Junk, Junk, Junk. If you are thinking of buying these save your money and just ride on the rim. It will be about as effective.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron McGraw
a Weekend Warrior
from Oil City, PA, USA Date Reviewed: September 16, 2002
CRAP! Nobody should buy these! If you want to get stranded and enjoy grinding your cleats down on the trail...these tires would be for you!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Crannell
a Cross Country Rider
from Port Byron New York Date Reviewed: June 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Bear Swamp
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Traction, mud clearing
Weaknesses:
Knobs can be a little squishy. Inside of tire breaks down
Similar Products Used:
WTB, Maxxis
Bike Setup:
GT I2k xt
Bottom Line:
Bought two of these last year. Both had the inside break down. Cracks inside put holes in tube. If you only use them for a month or so , they are OK. Better to buy Velociraptors.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Verd
a Cross Country Rider
from Slovenia Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
mixed
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Proloco trade
Strengths:
grip, speed
Weaknesses:
technology - design
Similar Products Used:
ritchey omega bite, ZMAX
Bike Setup:
Bianchi
Bottom Line:
Wildgripper cutted the inner tube / 5 or 6 times before i discovered cause. Obviously defective tire. Imagine all that spoiled rides. Will never buy Michelin again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan
a Cross Country Rider
from Auburn, Al Date Reviewed: May 3, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Tuskegee-the bog
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$13.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
Tall knobs, good hookup in loose stuff, rolls pretty fast.
Weaknesses:
I don't think they are great for hard pack
Similar Products Used:
stock speicialized
Bike Setup:
specialized hopper, manitou xvert super, avid ti breaks and levers, xt shifter and rder., some other little goodies. but of course the blazin green michelins
Bottom Line:
bottom line is that until this weekend i have been looking for another tire (it is only on rear. It was absolutely pouring and i was hitting some serious (hub/crank deep) soupy mud. i hadn't been in mud like that until now. I was completely stunned. I could just keep on cranking through the mud, and somehow these tires found something to grab. It was amazing. I know other people don't really like these tires, but i will be keeping them around for those mud expeditions. I am probably gonna get a panaracer or hutchinson soon for tight pack, but for the mud-these are my babies!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MrEd
a Cross Country Rider
from Nevada Date Reviewed: February 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Tahoe Rim / Pinenut Mtns.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Excellent traction for hardpack, fast rolling. Not that good on wet, but it rarely rains here.
Weaknesses:
lugs fell off really fast, like scary fast, within the first 3 weeks I was missing 4 lugs on left side front tire. also weak sidewalls
Similar Products Used:
tiogas, other michelins
Bike Setup:
K2 carbon OZ, next LP's, XTR, Kore, Answer, Cane Creek cronos ti.
Bottom Line:
Well like I said, lugs falling off after three weeks led me to believe I just recieved a bum tire, so I called performance and they made good and sent another.I changed the first tire before it was 2 months old. After about 4 weeks the sidewall blew out of this one and I lost my brand new tube. Get this, I wasnt even riding when it blew, my bike was just sitting there at work, ten feet from me with 50 psi in the tires, ( these go to 80 I believe ),and kablooie! there I was, calling for a ride home after 4 weeks on a new tire. The hair wasnt even gone on either tire. Emailed Michelin twice to tell them what went down, and never got a reply. I will not buy or recommend this to anybody, as you can have the best product in the world, but without customer service you have squat. Thats too bad because I really liked the tread pattern. I only got to ride this tire for barely 3 months total. What a disappointment. A tire that just didnt hold up(although a good tread pattern), and a company that doesnt reply to customers equals one flaming pile of monkey dung all around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from manville, nj usa Date Reviewed: December 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
mercer or chimney rock
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came on my bike
Strengths:
look pretty cool on my bike, green rubber goes well with color schem on my bike, good in mud (really soupy stuff)
Weaknesses:
many, not good on dry or wet rocks or stumps, the front washes out very easy, not good in corning
Similar Products Used:
first michelin tire used...kenda, conti
Bike Setup:
kona kula, xt, deore, bomber up front, mavic, avid, sram
Bottom Line:
altho these tires look good on my bike i am having many problems with them...my first and bigges problem is with the tire not seating right...i didnt have a problem until about my 4th tube change...the rear tire just would not seat correctly there for i just couldnt get the damn thing on the rim...luck for me i got in on after messing with it for a couple minutes...since then its gotten worse... i now pray i dont get a flat cause ill have to walk the bike out and change it at home...i have to put lube on the tire bead and it take about an hr to get the thing on...after i get it on if its not excaty correctly on there...it buldges on the side wall...now this is only the rear so my guess is i got a bum tire...i dont have that prob with the front...as for performance there ok the real sloppy mud other than that...the front washes out ina most conditions wheather it be dry, little wet, leaves, sand, mostly everything...the reaar's traction is pretty good...i dont have any confidence when i corner liek i said it washes out so easy...they will soon be replaced ...im gonna give is 2 for looks...but other than that...i would stay away from these tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas
a
from Provo, UT, USA Date Reviewed: September 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
$10
Strengths:
Look good Work well in mudium dirt
Weaknesses:
Weak sidewall Too much stretch at high psi (over 60 psi and rubs my frame) Breaks free at bad moments (ie. wet pavement)
Bike Setup:
Fisher Joshua
Bottom Line:
I've gone through 2 sets of these. They've never really inspired confidence. When I try to pump them way up for commuting, the rear tire gets big enough to rub my frame. I crashed on the road once on a wet corner. They seem to do well in soft to medium dirt, but on road/rock/hardpack they will slide out without warning. They also don't handle low pressure very well. It's time to try something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan
a Weekend Warrior
from Birmingham Date Reviewed: September 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
anything at Oak Mountain, AL
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$11.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
This tire rolls well (2.1) and hooks up with the trail like I didn't know was possible. The soft compound does well with roots, rocks and packed dirt. I haven't been able to really give it a hardcore mud bath yet but... I expect them to do well
Weaknesses:
These tires do wear quickly with a lot of road use, but if you use them for what they are designed for you will love them. After all, it takes 5 minutes? to change out your tires.
Similar Products Used:
stock specialized team master sl:-(absolute crap). The specialized are quickly becoming my street slicks.
Bike Setup:
pretty much stock Specialized Rockhopper a1fs.
Bottom Line:
This is an absolutely unbelievable tire, and-the price makes it that much more irresistable. It is amazing what you will find yourself attempting when you are confident about how your tires are hooking up. This tire is great for I would say light to medium mud, rocks, roots, ascents, and everything inbetween. And besides, the green just gives the bike a very personalized look.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alvin
a Downhiller
from Brea,CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 28, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$8.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Good for some loose ground. Very effictive going up steep hills.
Weaknesses:
Wears out too fast. Good mud tire, but not a good road tire.
Bike Setup:
2001 GT Palomar with SR Suntour M7700
Bottom Line:
Great for soft terrain, but don't get these tires if you are just going on the street all the time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Godalming, Surrey, UK Date Reviewed: March 30, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
From my experience, the rear is good in light/medium mud conditions. The front isn't as good but still ok.
The rear is a good all-rounder for off-road'in
Weaknesses:
Fast wearing, dodgy on wet roads!
Similar Products Used:
various other mud tires
Bike Setup:
Scott Apache - Don't worry look'in for a new bike right now!
Bottom Line:
I like them, good off-road - but not great on road... A forgiving and good value for money set of tires.
Rear is better than front.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad
a Weekend Warrior
from Walled Lake Date Reviewed: September 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
North Novi Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$7.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar (closeout)
Strengths:
Cost and color
Weaknesses:
I'm not experienced enough with different tires to identify specific weaknesses with these tires.
Similar Products Used:
stock Cheng-Shin tires
Bike Setup:
Old Mongoose, but it works. I'm shopping for something new.
Bottom Line:
For $7 each, I doubt you can do any better. They were certainly a huge leap forward from my stock tires. I think a lot of the poor reviews below may be due to lower inflation pressures. Take 'em up to 50 psi or more. If I understand tire technology correctly, a lighter tire typically has less material to hold it in shape, and therefore relies on tire pressure more so than a tire with more material. Anyway, if you're more of a casual rider like me looking to upgrade your tires, you'll do well with these. Oh, and the green color goes a long way toward making the bike look respectable...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam K.
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: September 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
lake wenatchee, WA
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
shop employee
Strengths:
Supple casing, versatile, good rubber quality.
Weaknesses:
Thin and light. Black and Green colors are good for different conditions.
Similar Products Used:
everything.
Bike Setup:
Kona King Kahuna, XTR, Race Face, and Riser Bars, of course.
Bottom Line:
This tire deserves a better rating. The rubber quality is superior to most brands. The BLACK tire grips well in most conditions. The GREEN tire is good for mud (it sheds excellently)but wears very quickly. The FRONT tires are less stable than the REAR.
2.1" Black rear is a good all around bet. They are FAR superior to the IRC tires commonly found on new bikes these days.
The rubber is soft and they require a lot of lean to corner properly.
OVerall, A four flamin' chili tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Radar
a Racer
from Barberton OH Date Reviewed: September 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything with dirt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Color looks kinda cool. Pretty resistant to pinch flats. Fairly predictable, especially at lower pressure. Good braking and climbing traction.
Weaknesses:
Rear is not great in mud. Front and rear could have closer side knobs.
Similar Products Used:
Geax, WTB, Specialized, Kenda
Bike Setup:
Fisher with Bonty wheels
Bottom Line:
Why do they only show the rear in the picture?? Anyway, fairly decent tire, especially since a couple places have them on closeout. They grip well but side knobs that are closer together would improve their cornering grip and traction on uneven roots. Other than that, they are good. For the rear though, you might as well go a little lighter and use the Comp S. It has a little less rolling resistance but still has enough traction for most people.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack
a Weekend Warrior
from Brussels Date Reviewed: September 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
great traction in mud, looses mud very fast (rear tire), light tire
Weaknesses:
wears very fast when riding on the road --> compound is too soft
Great tire (tested only the rear tire, use a Wildgripper X-sport at the front)if you can afford to replace it. The compound is too soft to make it last. When the center knobs are gone or the pressure is rather low, nothing can stop you kissing wet pavement (even at very low speeds). Very good in muddy conditions though, and light!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Crannell
a Cross Country Rider
from Port Byron NY Date Reviewed: August 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bear Swamp
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Good climbing traction . Great in mud and soft stuff .Don't load up .
Weaknesses:
On hard pack they are terrifying . No telling what they will do .
Similar Products Used:
Velocirapters and Maxxis
Bike Setup:
GT Rebound upgraded to all LX .
Bottom Line:
Great for mud and soft ground . I'll probably keep one on the rear for traction and get a Raptor to steer with . Low rolling resistance but turning is dicey . Those knobs are just too squishy on hard pack .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Park City, UT, USA Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
trails in between PCMR & DV
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Climbing ability (rear), rolls fast
Weaknesses:
Front washes out
Similar Products Used:
tires
Bike Setup:
K2 Razorback LX/XT, upgraded parts as broken
Bottom Line:
Park City rarely gets rain, and when it does only losers who disrespect the trails ride. Consequently, I ride hardpack and dry rock. The front tire washes out with no notice--it's fine to a certain point, then WHAM!! Others I know have experienced the same. I will try something else. They have worn quickly, as others have indicated. These were on sale cheap as a closeout item. If you love to ride, you should move here--but leave the front tire from whence you came.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leev Traxx
a Cross Country Rider
from Nashville, TN Date Reviewed: July 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Earh
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Price is good. Great tread and offer good puncture resistence. Stick and climb well
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptors
Bike Setup:
Mongoose F/S, 138 Mavic Rims, Shimano drive train, and hubs.
Bottom Line:
If your looking for a good dependable tire, that is priced right and bites the ground this tire should do well for you. We've run it side by side with WTB Velociraptor and really the Wild Gripper is at least as good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Francesco
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver CO US Date Reviewed: July 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Good humor.
Weaknesses:
Tons
Similar Products Used:
Many tires
Bike Setup:
Diamondback ti frame with Judy SL.
Bottom Line:
When the Wild Gripper came out, one of the guys in the shop HAD to have them. He left on his lunchbreak, screaming "WIIILD GRIPPER!" He came back, found a pair somewhere in Boulder. He put them on quite excitedly, rode out into the parkinglot, and promptly stacked when the front tire rolled over and washed out.
We laughed.
He liked them on dirt; on real trails, he liked the rear, might have hated the front, forget - but he also could ride seemingly any tire and be happy. He just thought they looked neat. We liked watching him crash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
johnnyb
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Anselmo Date Reviewed: November 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Wagon Wheel
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Sticks to the trail real good. Sheds mud fairly quickly. Good handling tire. Green is a cool color.
Just did a 20 miler in pouring rain (Sunday), rode perfect. Too bad deraillers gunked up. Tires front and rear, handled great with slippage only happening on the braking. Didn't push too hard though. Rode today 25 miles in brownie-like conditions and it was pretty good too. Mud sheds quickly in both conditions. Bought both tires for under $15 each at Performance. One black and one green, oh well. Give it a try in the wet! Don't know how long the tires will last. Wildgripper sprint (slick) lasted about 800 miles (lots of pinch flats).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bryan
a Cross-Country Rider
from denver Date Reviewed: October 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
its a secret
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
sheds mud light super traction on rear on sale at performance for $12
Weaknesses:
wears fast
Similar Products Used:
conti navigator mich semi slicks
Bike Setup:
95 cannondale f700
Bottom Line:
lite-s: The rear is excellent in all conditions except super hardpack or rock. It grips good and sheds mud. On hardpack and rock, the knobs are too far apart and it looses traction. I just put the front on, I'll let you know how it does.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Manny
a Cross-Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: October 18, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mission Trails Park - E-Ticket
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good in loose gravel. Good on high speed fireroads.
Weaknesses:
A little scary on hardpack. Very Scary on pavement.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Pirahna Pro IRC Mythos
Bike Setup:
Ti hardtail, Manitou SX (set soft)
Bottom Line:
Terrain - I ride mostly hardpack interspersed with clusters of baby heads (rocks). In the dry season, there tends to be 1 to 2 inches of dry silt in the trail ruts. In some areas there is a fair amount of DG (decomposed granite).Tires - I am running Black, 2.1 Wildgripper Lite's, front and rear specific. Tire pressure is 46 to 50 psi.The front tire is VERY terrain specific. It rides well on gravel covered fireroads and in loose powdery conditions. It likes speed and small to moderate directional changes. It DOES NOT ride well on tight, technical trails where there is a lot of loose, golfball-size rock. It also does not like slow technical climbing. Under these conditions, the tire does not easily change direction, and you find yourself lifting the front and placing it on the new line. It also does not like rutted hardpack turns. Your initial input (lean) does not effect a change, so you really lean and countersteer, which has you oversteering with your weight biased toward the front of the bike.The rear tire is more versitile. It still prefers terrain similar to that on which the front tire excells, but is still good on the hardpack and rocky ascents. It also responds well to body steering.These tires take some getting used to. I figure I'm about half to two-thirds of the way through the learning curve.The front tire get 2 peppers; the rear gets 4 peppers for an average of 3 peppers
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from College Station TX Date Reviewed: September 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Cameron Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light weight Good grip Sand
Weaknesses:
Loose rock
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey alpha/omega tioga psycho/k
Bike Setup:
Steel-is-real Bianchi/rox judy xc & susp. post
Bottom Line:
I use the lite S rear (black) for both front and rear. excellent in the loose and mud, they even roll smooth on the road (just remember that they're OFF road tires, not slicks). They do pick up leaves like a gardener on crack though. Theres not much hard pack where I ride so I can't say about that. Four Fiery Fiesta Farts
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SpeedFreak
a Cross-Country Rider
from Reston VA Date Reviewed: September 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Cacoctin MD
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
super mud shedding light weight grips everything even wet roots
Weaknesses:
Need to have your weight centered on the bike or you are going down
Similar Products Used:
WTB Raptors Specialized Team Control/master
Bike Setup:
Trek Y-22 w/ Spinergy Spox wheels, rock shock/Englund/Speed Springs and Stratos rear shock, Easton CT2 post
Bottom Line:
These tires take some adjusting to. I suspect that the riders that have problems with traction are not staying centered on their bikes. Roadies will hate them as they are a square profile but narrow. I like them and I have rode them about 20 times in the last month. My first two days were in a down pour at Snowshoe WV and I wrecked hard on them numerous times- F****cking tires suck!!! until I got the hang of them. If you ride them motocross style(hanging off the bike in turns)however they work real well. Not as confident on them on high speed downhill twisties like my Master/Control tires but for all around riding they really rock. Mud just flies off them - pretty weird.If you have any speed at all it just falls of - even really nasty clay. Those people that have a problem with mud sticking to them must ride on the road a lot and are tearing them up. They really grip well even on wet rock and roots which is primarily what we have to ride around here.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrejs
a Cross-Country Rider
from Waterloo, ON Date Reviewed: September 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Waterloo Hydro Cut!!!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Traction in virtually all conditions gives you excellent control.
Weaknesses:
Wear seems to be an issue...
Similar Products Used:
Specialized tires (5 years of 'em)
Bike Setup:
97 Y22 with Judy SL and Fox Alps 5
Bottom Line:
I say these tires are excellent quality for their cost. They cost like $50 canadian new, and altough I would like Hot-s, they're an extra $25! The green colour is cool cuz it's my fav. colour, but obviously the real issue is the tire handling, and it shines. On the same trail where I might've experienced sliding about 5 times with my late Specialized team issued tires, made by IRC, whereas I will slide once with these Wildgrippers. They do clean the mud out of themselves nicely, contrary to certain individuals statements... I can attest to this cuz I frikkin eat the mud that flies offa' these things damnit! :) These are good tires for the cost, just get a set to compliment each other. I give 5 turds cuz they do alot for my ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross-Country Rider
from Montreal Date Reviewed: September 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bing-Bang @ Bromont
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Front Tire Good Rolling Resistance Goofy GREEN!
Weaknesses:
Life Span Rear Tire Don't Ride on Pavement!
Similar Products Used:
Every Continental Tire in line, Ritcheys, Smoke/Darts, Specialized, Mitsubishi, bunch of others!
THEY F**KING SUCK! I ride 6 days a week, 60/day .. 40 on pavement, 20 off road on hardpacked trails. FIRST! Never do Dual Slalon with these peices of shit! They look good, about it. I bought them for 15$ a peice (canadian) and now, 2 months later, they are worn out! SECOND: they wear out DAMN quickly! they are not suppose to have any mud stick to them! BULL! I just came back from a ride today and well well well, i can't wash the mud off my tires. If you ride A LOT - DO NO BUY. I liked them at first, but now - nope! they get 3 flamming dog turds because they climb well and the front tire saved my life today ...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh Williams
a Cross-Country Rider
from New York Date Reviewed: August 19, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Brookfield State Lands
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Green Grips in any conditions Rolls fast
Weaknesses:
Wears quickly on pavement
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptor
Bike Setup:
GT Timberline Manitou Spyder R
Bottom Line:
These are the best tires I've put on my bike. I had Velociraptors which were shit. They were the worst damn tire I'd every ridden on. They made the tires at K-mart look good. These tires have shed mud great. My only complaint is that they wear fast if you do much road riding.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toupin Date Reviewed: August 19, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Rear tire grip
Weaknesses:
awful in hardpack front tire does not grip
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos Panaracer Fire XC
Bike Setup:
Cannondale KillerV900 W/headshox
Bottom Line:
I did research on the this tire and no where did I see where it was loose/mud tire only. I ride mostly hardpack. Maybe it was my fault but these tires suck on hardpack. You can actually feel and hear the front tire sliding out around corners. I rode once with them and went out and bought Panaracer Fire XC which do MUCH better for my type of riding. (hardpack)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andy kestner
a Cross-Country Rider
from saratoga ny Date Reviewed: August 2, 1999
Favorite Trail:
skidmore stables
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
grip!! they tear it up in loose stuff and downhills. my climbing is so much better with these. pimpin green too
Weaknesses:
they roll fairly badly on smooth stuff. they aren't bad they just do what you might expect from a loose condtions tire
Similar Products Used:
smokes, primalraptor, irc mythos
Bike Setup:
s-works m2 w/king race face judy sl
Bottom Line:
i am really happy with these, and not just because i got them for 12 bucks. i have the lite s by the way. they work really well in east coast stuff and althought they may not rol that well on smooth stuff there perfprmance on loose stuff or any sort of climb or downhill makes up for itt
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wade
a Cross-Country Rider
from Mid Tenn, USA Date Reviewed: July 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
fast singletrack...like TSALI
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Similar Products Used:
Smokes, Velocirapter, IRC mythos
Bottom Line:
I put a couple of hours on these today. I bought 'em 'cause they were cheap (on sale) and I've only ridden them on pavement, BUT I ride mostly hardpack and these just won't do. The knobs just go goofy when you corner. I thought I was going to loose it many times. I'm not even going to take them to the trail. The IRC's on my HT are much better on pavement and great on the trail. They might be good for light muck, and loose stuff...but that ain't what I ride... I think a lot of the problem is in the U-shaped profile.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anthony
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sudbury, ON Date Reviewed: July 9, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
unique color (green) Great in slurpy mud. Sheds nicely.
Weaknesses:
Hardpack suicide. Horrible front tire tread design which causes extreem loss of traction in corners.
Bottom Line:
It is no doubt that michelin finally dropped the front specific wildgripper. If you plan to buy or have the front wild gripper, your best to trash the idea or the tire. When on hard to medium terrain these tire can NOT hold a line through a corner. THE SKINNY LITTLE TALL NOBBIES FOLD OVER UNDER ANY CORNERING. If you like the feeling of slamming down in corners then these are the tires for you. The back tire is still great in the mud and acceptable in medium hardpack. I'll try buying another rear tire to replace the, now discontinued, USELESS front tire.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AdamO
a Racer
from Calgary Date Reviewed: July 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
milstream
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
grip well, roll super fast, great in anything loose or even grassy
Weaknesses:
not a great hardpack tire, washes out easily on hardpack corners
Similar Products Used:
IRC MYthos Contitnetal traction pros
Bike Setup:
99 Rocky Mountain element t.o.
Bottom Line:
They grip good in almost anything, super good gripper whether your cornerin breaking or climbing in anything loose. They're better than irc's and conti's. It's a damn shame they discontinued the front tire, I realy liked that tire. If you ride loose with not a lot of hardpack run the lite s front and rear but, if you have any hardpack at all make sure you run a different front tire or you'll be down realy fast. I like two rear lite s tires if there is ahrdpack. Looking forward to getting a pair of comp s's.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sacramento, CA Date Reviewed: June 29, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Tires slide in loose gravel switchbacks. Fast rolling. No pinch flats, yet.... Good climber.
Weaknesses:
Tires slide in loose gravel high speed downhill descents. Needs better sidewall protection.
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos - sucks - no stars
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper with Judy SL
Bottom Line:
Good fast racing tires. After six races in five weeks, in loose, rocky gravel, river rock, hardpack, and asbestos filled dirt, the tires are still functioning extremely well. No pinch flats. However, I did notice minor sidewall damage. It did take several weekend rides to understand when the tires will slide in hardpack. I do understand why so many people hate these tires. However, for me and my riding style and paperlight light body mass, these tires work. Tires will wear faster for heavier ride.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JLAH
a Weekend Warrior
from Malaysia Date Reviewed: June 29, 1999
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Grips every damn thing...Feels like the ground is sticking to the tires.
Weaknesses:
When is wet on rocks...the tire slips of pretty easily...
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptor Irc Mythos
Bike Setup:
Joshua F4 Judy C
Bottom Line:
It's a great tire...served me for like over 2 years..and still works fine. Except when it's wet....I rather don't speed.....
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross-Country Rider
from Campbell, CA Date Reviewed: June 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Soquel Demo Forest
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
None that I can tell
Weaknesses:
Piece of CRAP! Pinch flat on my second ride with full sidewall hernia. It was a long walk back!
Similar Products Used:
Misc IRC, Panaracer and WTB
Bike Setup:
Full Sus X-Country
Bottom Line:
Only buy these tires if you enjoy walking!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MANUEL
a Weekend Warrior
from Milano, ITALY Date Reviewed: June 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
The Wildgripper on every hard terrain will make you fall! No lateral support at all! The front tire has too a thin line of central knobs that tend to make the wheel slide sideways. Morover the other knob lines are parallel so there is no in-between support when you inclide the bike. The result: the front wheel will slide away suddenly. Moreover I had tens of pinch flat even on plain city roads. After crashing on a road risking my life I trashed my tires and called Michelin. The tech responsible said: You are right on hard surface you will fall! No chance! It's a mud tire! So THEY KNOW, but they DON'T sell it as a MUD tire! That's even more crazy! My suggestion: NEVER buy such tires unless for pure mud.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grifman
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston Date Reviewed: June 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Lynn Woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
cool looks light
Weaknesses:
Sidewall, sidewall, sidewall....
Similar Products Used:
Panaracers Specialized WTB
Bike Setup:
M2 Stumpjumper Marz. Z2 Bomber - BAM
Bottom Line:
Worst pair of tires I ever bought for durablity standards. Unfortunetly it took me four sets to figure that out. Oh well, my bad. Problems usually occured when I rode in the rocks, which is almost all the time. The rear tire would usually rip in the sidewall and project the tube right out ready to be exposed to flats. Not very good bang for the buck. Also originally I thought they were good climbers, but after trying a set of Velociraptors, they can't even compare. Do yourself a favor and steer clear of these tires. Your bike will thank you.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a Cross-Country Rider
from CA Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Handles OK
Weaknesses:
Weak sidewall
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Team Master Tiogoa Psycho Velociraptor
Bike Setup:
Trek Y-22
Bottom Line:
This tire stinks. It rode well on smooth surfaces and gripped reasonably well. As soon as I went through ruts (minor ones) I started getting pinch flats on rim side of the tube. Every 4th ride I get front flat even with the pressure at 60 PSI. I would have given this tire 4 flamers for overall performance, but what good is a tire you can't use all the time. I just ordered another pair of raptors from Supergo. Their heavy in comparison, but they grip well and I never had this many consistent flats. In all fairness this tire is probably good for XC racing,but as a daily rider. No way
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Willie
a Cross-Country Rider
from Nova Scotia Canada Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
OK hardpack performance
Weaknesses:
Very loose in soft stuff
Similar Products Used:
Tioga, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Giant hardtail with Rockshox Judy XC fork
Bottom Line:
These came on my new Giant ATX 870 and I am not very impressed with them. They have Ok handling on simple stuff but get on to some mud or loose packed stuff and look out. I don't have a lot of experience with other tires but I'm pretty sure these will have to go. They doo hook up OK for climbing if you are very cautious to keep lots of wieght to the back end.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tibor
a Weekend Warrior
from Zagreb Date Reviewed: May 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Zumberak
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good mud clearance
Weaknesses:
Weak sidewalls, weak on the inside, weak on the outside...
Similar Products Used:
n/a
Bike Setup:
KHS Comp Pro '93, Marzocchi DH3
Bottom Line:
Terrible. What I meant by weak on the inside is that my rear Wildgripper Lite developed A PATTERN of fractures on the INSIDE of the tire, which have even damaged my inner tubes. No more Michelin tires for me. Ever. No stars necessary.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from MS Date Reviewed: April 27, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
I tried the Green Wildgripper Lite tires, and they were the worst tires I have ever ridden on hardpack. In the sand and pine straw they were OK, but heaven forbid I hit something a little bit hardpack - SLIDE. If you ride trails that are soft and soggy everywhere (and I do mean everywhere), you will love them. If, however, your trails have any hardpack at all, you'll hate them.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
grifman
a Cross-Country Rider
from Somerville, MA Date Reviewed: April 6, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Fast, good climbers (soft), cool color.
Weaknesses:
Durability
Bottom Line:
These tires are better used on hardpacked surfaces. At first I really liked them. Unfortunetly, if you bring them through rocks and extremely technical conditions, the sidewalls will rip. Overall I thought they were not worth the money. I talked with Michelin about this problem and it didn't seem that they were going to do anything about it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derk jan
a Cross-Country Rider
from Tilburg, the Netherlands Date Reviewed: March 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
loonse en drunense duinen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
Great climbing abilities, especially at rocky surfaces. This tire kicks ass, light and fast. In sand its your best friend to keep you in the sadle. They wear off like hell, my shop owner loves me!!The damn arrogant french, I find these rubbers a bit expensive but at the other hand have not find an aternative yet. I agree with those who find the front version of the M a bit unstable.I gave my baby a new back rubberRitchey speedmax, what a crap. It should be good for fast tracks. Its hard to understand that Bart Brentjens made it to gold at the Olimpics. The time I gain at the road I lose twice in the mud, sand, not to speak about climbing. Slipery slide. Conclusion Michelin rear (black and green) 4 traction, look 2 because of the wear off and the high price.So its up to you fellows
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Leonard
a Cross-Country Rider
from COlorado SPrings, CO Date Reviewed: March 18, 1999
These tires handle poorly in gravelly hardpack, and wear out too quickly. Both front and rear also blew sidewalls. Now Michelin wants me to send them back first before the'll do anything about it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Z-Kid
a Cross-Country Rider
from New York State Date Reviewed: March 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Hairendeen
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Rubber Compound Traction Hook-up
Weaknesses:
Couldn't tell ya
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Chameleon Tioga Psycho
Bike Setup:
Front Suspension
Bottom Line:
This will be the only tire I ever put on my rear wheel. Hooks up like a blessed Motocross tire. Makes riding over obstacles feel like childs' play. If I were you all, I would buy these for this summer and ride like you never have before.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a racer
from Bend, Oregon USA Date Reviewed: March 8, 1999
Bottom Line:
This review is for the Michelin Wildgripper Lite S:I had a rear put on the rear of my new bike and a rear put on the front as well. They look great and perform great on hard pack to soft conditions. I got out on the trail a few days after putting these on and there was a bit of mud. As the reviews go, they sucked ass in the mud. They shed the mud great, but for some reason they slow you down an unreasonable ammount. It's really really annoying. On the bright side, they do climb well in most any condition. The one that I have on the rear end of my bike seems to be wearing fast. This may be due to being a '96. The front is a '98 though, and it's holding up great. I don't know why people are complaining of them getting squiraly on the road, I have to ride the road to get to most of the trails and I have had no problems. Overall, they perform damn good on hard pack, sand, graval, etc. But when you take a dip in the mud they really suck bad. If you ride in mud the majority of the time, don't get these tires. Maybe some of the others (Hot S, Sprint...), but if you only hit the mud a little, you should be fine. 5 for the tires performance around here 2 for the performance in mud (which we do not often have) 5+++++ for Michelin's customer service, if you ever need anything from them, you'll know what I mean!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a cross-country rider
from Bridgeport WV Date Reviewed: February 17, 1999
Bottom Line:
When I orginially got my bike it came with Maxxis 116 tires which like really suck. But the minute I put the Wildgrippers on my bike I started making switchbacks which I had never been able to ride before. I think the traction is really grate. And they clear mud quite will even during the WV spring when it rains practiclally every day.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Wu
a cross-country rider
from Hsin Chu, Taiwan Date Reviewed: February 5, 1999
Bottom Line:
This review is for the wildgripper sport rear tire(black, steel). It's slightly under 600g. Rolling resistance is average for a knobby. Climbing and braking traction is better than I expected. The tire drifts easily but doesn't washout. The transition knobs flex a great deal. The central knobs are 1/5 worn after only 200 miles. The side knobs are placed too low on the side. They hardly every come into contact with the ground. I use these tires for training, but I switch to Continentals when it's racing time.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paulo Abreu
a weekend warrior
from Madeira Island - Portugal Date Reviewed: January 26, 1999
Bottom Line:
I had the 2.1 kevlar Michelin Wildgriper Lite S for almost one year. As the reviews for the front tire were very bad, i opted to use one version of this rear tire that can be reversed(has two arrows) and used it on Front. Conclusions? :The read tire is ok. It has a good grip, doesn´t pack with mud and is light The front tire sucks. I went several times on the group due to that tire. The small knobs on the side don´t have enought grip on turns and the large exposed flat surface between knobs gives it a very unpredictable behaviour.At the begining i gave it chance but get tired of it. I changed to IRC Mythos XC and it´s from night to day light.1 of 5 stars because they are light. Otherwise 0 (zero)
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a cross-country rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: January 14, 1999
Bottom Line:
The wild gripper lite front tire came on my bike. First ride I hated it. It felt like it would break loose at the slightest lean. Left it on for a couple of rides due to suggestion from lbs. Converted!!! They grip like nothing else on steep downhills. I think it is the slightly tall narrow knobs that give them an initial uneasy squirm when you first lean them into a turn, but stay relaxed and stick with it and they will too. Sooo nice. Be nice.That's nice.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ant
a weekend warrior
from Kent, England Date Reviewed: January 1, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have tried five different pairs of tyres of my bike in the last year. This has been expensive, so I hope that this comparative review of my experience with these tyres helps you make a better choice first time.Some Taiwanese no name dual purpose tires: Heavy, not good on any terrain, a sod to get on and off the rims, couldn’t get shot of them quick enough.
Specialized Fear Master/Control: (kevlar 127tpi 1.95”) Light. good traction on the rear. Good control on the front. Predicable in everything from mud to tarmac. If you don’t know what the terrain is going to be like, these are a good safe bet. Lasted for 1200 miles. The only reason I will never ( and I mean never ) buy them again is that they were unbalanced weight wise. Enough to cause the forks and frame to vibrate violently at high speed. The shop said that this must have been badly pressed in the factory. Who needs that when your racing against some psycho out there in the back of beyond!Panaracer Spike: ( kevlar 1.9” ) A very terrain specific tire. Truly fantastic control and traction in anything from swampland to soft mud. That said, there not safe on hard ground, and are positively lethal on tarmac. This is one time when you should heed the warning printed on the tire: Not For Road Use. No-shit-sherlock! So much so, I can’t use these tire, no matter how hard it’s been raining the night before, as the trails I ride all have some sections of tarmac. Going to keep them though, for when it snows hard.WTB VelociRaptor: ( 2.1” ) The rear has great traction in the mud; although when the mud is like clay, the wide width of this tire cause the mud to build up in the frame around the brakes and the wheel drags to a complete lockup. This is when I realised that 1.9” tires are definitely better than 2.1” in the mud. Piss poor control from the front tire. Predicable on any terrain only in the sense that I know it’s going to washout. I expected more from WTB. Michelin Wildgripper: (1.9” any colour, there all the same compound, so the guys in the bike shop say ) This is now my chosen knobbly tire for wet off road terrain. Safe enough on tarmac, predictable in soft or loose conditions; and it’s balanced! I didn’t think that the stud pattern on the rear was going to give good traction, but it does. This is the tire performance that I was expecting from the Specialized Fear Master/Control tires.Bontrager revolt SS: (2.1 front, 1.9 rear) Light. Extremely low rolling resistance. Fantastic cornering ability on hard and dry ground of any type, including grass. Allowing you to really lean into those corners until your knees touch the ground, and you power out the bend with an elated scream of relief. These will stay on my bike from May to October. These tires are only made in 2.1” for front, 1.9” for rear. This sounds stupid at first, but don’t let it put you off, it really does work well.Summery: Use Michelin Wildgripper: 1.9” for soft or loose conditions. (5 star) Use Bontrager revolt SS: for any terrain in dry conditions. (5 star)If you would like to see some MTB photos, you are welcome to visit my home Smeg Site at www.antx.freeserve.co.uk
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
james parfitt
a cross-country rider
from london Date Reviewed: December 26, 1998
Bottom Line:
I got some of the realy cheap orane ones for Christmas and I think they're great and brighten up my bike alot!! they grip really well off road and slide on wet tarmac.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon R
a cross-country rider
from MA Date Reviewed: November 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
I got these tires as a hand me down because the person I got them from got a new bike and no longer needed them. This person did put some miles on them but nothing major. The do seem to work well in the mud and do seem to grip to rocks well but they hardly last at all. They wear down quicker than any other tire I have ever had. Also to sidewalls tear very easily. I have ended up not being able to use the rear one since the tread is almost no exsistant but the front work fine for me. Don't try to use these tires in the snow, you won't get to far
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Locke
a cross-country rider
from Paramus, NJ Date Reviewed: November 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
Boy, it seems people either hate or love these. I got 1.9 green grippers early 97. Used on a killer V, tehna Super V later in the year, and 3/98 put on the New Mantra. They work well on all the bikes. Ride a lot, all off road in various conditions. Like them a lot. I am a momentum rider, I get up to speed (big ring), and try to float there at speed. I found tring to push these with high torqe low revs, is not the best technique for them. I'll also say, they got faster and better as I got faster and better. (and lost 20 lbs) The 1.9 are way lite, under 500Grams with the amount of use on them, but still have reasonable rubber in the middle. I am 190 lbs, strong, and also ride my road bike for workouts 50-100 miles as weather permits. I have to rate them high.. 4.5stars
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Juan
a cross-country rider
from Idaho Date Reviewed: November 3, 1998
Bottom Line:
Kevlar wild gripper 2.1's came with the wheel deal that I purchased. I thought I'd give them a try. YIKES! The front tire is all over the place! It steers heavy, like a flat tire. I lean it into a corner and it's unpredictable. On a fast descent, I have to brake where I usually don't to keep from eating rocks. I almost wreck making a fast turn on the pavement coming home. One ride, and 10 miles is enough! I'd gladly trade these for a new set of z-maxes! One flaming turd for the front tire...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kabby Hong
a weekend warrior
from Denver Colorado USA Date Reviewed: October 26, 1998
Bottom Line:
I just got two front Wildgrippers at a VeloSwap for crazy price of $15 so Ithought I'd give them a try on my hardtail. I originally had a full knobby Bontrager Jones tires and my first impression with the Michelin's is they seem to ride much lighter than the Bontragers. I gained speed noticeably quicker and my bike just seemed to zoon down hills. The knobs seemed to grip but not enough to slow down the bike. On fast corners though you have to watch it because the tires just don't have the knobs to fully bite into a turn. I live in Colorado and most of the trials are hardpack and the tires climbed surprisingly well. Even with a front tire on the back. The tires really shined on slippery rock sections where I just knew I would slip and fall but the tires just held on. I think like most racing tires the Michelins are very specialized for certain riders and certain conditions. For a fast not too techncial course these tires really shine. I really noticed an increase in speed with these tires. But if you want an all around tire I don't think these are the best.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Beppe Pedani
a weekend warrior
from Italy Date Reviewed: October 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
I bought a new bike (Le Run Platoon with Titanium frame) with Michelin wildgripper Sprint. Very very good in traction in every condition even jumping on pedals. I'm waiting to test 'em on mud, but in any case i'll buy the lite s. The only little problem could be a little weaving on descent metaled road maybe because the wrong pressure.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
warren
a cross-country rider
from Freeland, Washington Date Reviewed: October 18, 1998
Bottom Line:
The only thing going for these tires are that the annoying green actually matches my Kona frame. Seriously, I stole these from a friend who hated them, and came to much the same conclusion. First, they wear fast! (Even Michelin admits it, they claim it's the trade off for the 'superior' traction that the tires give.) Secondly, they are pretty heavy for a xc tire, my bike gained almost a pound putting these things on, and when that pound is in the wheels you really feel it. Third, the front tire is just plain SCARY! The only time it shines is on fast straight decents, any other time it slips and slides like a greased Scottsman. On tight singletrack make sure you have a good helmet because these tires WILL make you crash. Fourthly, they seem to get flats more than my other tires. To say something good about them, I like the traction of the rear tire in dry or mildly damp conditions. It handles well, but not well enough to justify the cost. (There are many tires with similar tread patterns for 1/2 the cost). Michelin also really blew it when they made these tires green (come on, you expect us to believe that you can't dye your rubber compound black?) To sum up: If I was a top racer, and got all the free bike swag I wanted, I might use these tires to ride around the pits because of how 'trick' they look. But for the race, I'd change to something lighter and more predictable. I give them 2 chillies, both for the back tire.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chrisitan S
a
from Germany Date Reviewed: October 13, 1998
Bottom Line:
My new GIANT came with Wildgripper 1.95 skinwall: Crashed rim in the third week (probably too low air pressure) Rear tire rubber wears down frighently fast on pavement Rolling resitance high even with max. pressure 5.6 bar. Weight (650/680) in used but clean (!)condition much higher than as spec'ed in Michelins Webpages (560!!) which sheds a bad light on Michelin (dishonesty)! Tire traction on wet leaves also bad. Probably a good tire for mud but no allround tire. Switched to Continental Golitath 1.6: Very low rolling resitance, makes me enjoy the ride to/from work enormously.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kelvin
a racer
from England Date Reviewed: October 1, 1998
Bottom Line:
I don't understand why people are giving these such good reviews. I've had them for about 2 months now and I hate them. I've used them in four races and they sucked every time, huge rolling resistance, poor traction on the rear tire, and the front one just doesn't like cornering at all !! I'm going to burn them tonight and put on my smoke and darts which behave like real tires - loads of traction and clear mud easily. The Wild slippers just turn into 5 lb choclate donuts.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rich
a racer
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: September 15, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires look cool and have some advantages. The rolling resistance is good for a knobby. Mud doesn't stick much. But the front tire is a little squirrely for me, might be my riding style. On pavement it is frightening (sometimes I have to ride on pavement to get to the trail). Rear tire hooks up well in most conditions, but not on loose gravelly climbs (need big ole DH tires there). Overall, an interesting set of tires, but not a set I can race on in most conditions around here. Prefer Mythos.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luc Plattiau
a weekend warrior
from Aalst, Belgium Date Reviewed: September 11, 1998
Bottom Line:
Since one yearI use green Wildgrippers in muddy conditions. Grip is more then perfect. I used to ride Tioga Psycho's before, but they are a complete disaster compared to the Michelins. Riding with Wildgrippers gives more confidence to pass slippery and muddy spots without slowing down because the risk of slipping is less. On top of it, they simply look good compared to black tires. A negative point is the fact that theyr rolling resistance is too high in dry conditions.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Annison
a cross-country rider
from Sunderland, England Date Reviewed: September 4, 1998
Bottom Line:
I am currently in a team(DENTONS) and we all use wildgrippers, to me they are the fastest tyres on the market for cross-country racers. I have noticed that they wear quite fast ans some people prefer to put 2 rear tyres instead of 1 front and 1 rear as 2 rears offer more grip. They are very light and handle corners to a high standard, I can easily say these are the fastest tyres I have ever raced on. The grip means faster power uphill without wheel slide and you can put power in without losing any to loss of friction. Best tyres I have ever bought not to good for street riding and trials.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kim
a cross-country rider
from Willoughby, OH Date Reviewed: August 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
Well, I'm about to own my first set of Wildgrippers, if only because Michelin is offering a $15 rebate on two tires. I can only offer what some others have offered so far: The tire does seem to be an easy flat, and I was witness to it twice on the same ride.My buddy, Larry, loved the tires because of their grip, but did say that they were soft and wore poorly. I'm giving up my Vredestein's to try these tires out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kathy
a weekend warrior
from New England Date Reviewed: August 22, 1998
Bottom Line:
I bought a slightly used Wildgripper Lite S 2.1 front tire from the proprietor of one of my fav LBS's for a measly $10. What a deal! He's a big 220lb guy, and found the small tread squirmy. I find it to be confidence-inspiring, but I'm only 125lbs dressed and ready to ride. I've ridden it through snow, mud, roots, rocks, hardpack and off-camber trails. Great grip and cornering. I could do without the funky green color, but it is usually camoflaged by dried mud. I care more about performance than looks anyway. I can't speak about the rear tire since I run a Conti XC in back (and like it, too). I'll most likely buy another one of these when it wears out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeremy schmit
a cross-country rider
from MN Date Reviewed: August 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
I'm an X-country racer and I dont know what daves prob is but I've had these tires for a while and there great in loose dirt, mud and all terain. If they go through sticky mud they need to be cleaned off because if there caked w/mud and you lock up your wheels, youre screwed. G reat in the 1-2foot mud puddles. jhon might be getting flats because a # of things, pinch flats (snake bites) 2 much air, 2 less air, messed up rims etc.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a cross-country rider
from Northeastern CT Date Reviewed: August 21, 1998
Bottom Line:
Well I just got these tires the other day. They came on a used set of Spinergys that I just got. They ,I gather, have many miles on them, for the tread is pretty low. No signs of missing knobs though. I've been using a new set of Specialized Team Masters, and have been very happy with them. So I figure I'll throw away these green tires and put on my T.M.s. But....... I just want to try these cool looking wheel out, so I leave the green guys on for now, and off I go. Well, I took the same trail that I had just riden the day before. Now, I'm thinking that I have these old used green things on, so I'd better take care....well....no problems yet(I say to myself).......Hey pretty good......WOW these things hold pretty nice.......oh boy, here comes the mud, Im sure to not get through this with these tires! The other day with my agessive looking T.M.s I was spinning and spitting mud. When I got through my TMs were caked up with this CT. goo. OK......here I go.....WOW!!!....NOT EVEN A SLIP???!!.....AND NO MUD IN THE TREADS!!!??? Sorry for the long story. I came here to say that I think these green guys are GREAT! I didn't go out and by them, they just happened into my life, and I'm glad they did. I'm going out to buy a new pair for my new Spox wheels(here next week!!). And I think my bike looks AWSOME! Mango FSR Comp, Spinergy Rev X Lites, and GREEN tires. I know , it may sound bad, but it's cooooolll.It makes me look like I know what I'm doing. Haaa.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a racer
from AZ Date Reviewed: August 15, 1998
Bottom Line:
My stupid friend (kind of) rides these ugly green skidding things he calls tires. This review could be inacurate because he sucks at riding but they are still dumb. He gets lots of flats and the tread (whats left after his skidding) is cracking because he leaves them flat in his garage and then pumps them up to 70 psi when he rides to get optimium skidding performance. I guess this is more a review of the rider (John) than the tire but my oppinion is that they both are butt ugly and can't handle dirt worth crap. The tires might deserve a chille but John sure doesn't. P. S. John, if you read this review, Clay wrote it so please do not anally violate me for saying that YOU SUCK! PPS: Your Trek 6000 does too!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a racer
from Adelaide, Australia Date Reviewed: August 15, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have been using Wildgripper Lite S tires on the rear of my ATX890 for about 18 months now (although I'm into my 4 one, I do ride them very hard). The grip is incredible when riding through foot deep mud. I've had a few cornering problems in wet slippery conditions when I was running with a WG on the front, but since then I've been using WTB Velociraptors on the front with the tread reversed. The velociraptor is a cheap tire, and running in the right direction in sucks, but reverse the tread and it climbs like nothing else, corners well, but rolling resistance is high (but I mean, who cares when riding through foot deep mud).So, overall, the WG LiteS gets 5 chillies for the rear, but try some other combinations on the front to improve the areas where the WG is weak.
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Submitted by
Jerome
a cross-country rider
from Quebec City, Canada Date Reviewed: August 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
I've had a lot'o tires on my bike and these green babies (2.1 ones) are the best. Despite what has been said, they don't wear so much on hard surfaces and stick in mud and sand - and many other conditions, as far as I'm concerned... And, if you like being noticed, count on their green colour to act as an added coolness factor.
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Submitted by
Jason
a cross-country rider
from Maryland Date Reviewed: August 4, 1998
Bottom Line:
I got these tires about two months ago and have not had any problems at all so far. They are a little soft and do seem to be wearing a little fast from riding on streets and rocks too much, but their dirt and mud performance makes it worth it. They are a little expensive though - $90 for the pair - but THEY ARE GREEN!!!
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Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Ma Date Reviewed: August 1, 1998
Bottom Line:
Flats! Flats! Flats! Ever since I put on these green boogers I've had nothing but flats on my back tire. I weigh about 175 pounds and even with the tire pressure where it should be I get flats on the back. It seems the compound is too soft. The other day a twig poked through the tire and gave me a flat! I've also had a slit in the sidewall and some of the knobs look like they have been cut with a razor blade. Flats! Flats! Flats! Had to carry my bike back home too many times because of flats! Other than that I like them because they grip good and THEY'RE GREEN!
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Submitted by
Ricardo
a cross-country rider
from England Date Reviewed: July 31, 1998
Bottom Line:
I use these tyres (Americans get the spelling right purrlease) in really shitty backwoods in rainy old blighty, they stick like glue, clear mud fast and I can now climb faster than a monkey... All this after spending months spinning a rear Velociraptor. The fact that they aren't too good on roads is moot - the only time you should see a mounatin biker on a road is if they're on a bus!
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Submitted by
Brian
a cross-country rider
from Ft. Worth, Texas Date Reviewed: July 29, 1998
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I bout these tires when I was at around 200 miles this year, and now I'm almost at 1500, and these tires were a dream come true I was never able to corner as well, accellerate as well, OR stop as well (even if my brakes were the best they could be adjusted) sure now the knobs on teh corners are kinda fallin' off, and the mid treads are showin' teh inner layer but I rode the hell out of these, these tires were GREAT while they lasted, in mud they did great, bot a face full of mud cuz the mud evacuation is incredible, and in sand they never lost there grip, even on ashphalt they are awesome! Before these tires I wasn't able to ride to my full extent but these tires showed me what I can REALLY do! if you get the chance GET THEM!!!! sure the knobs will fall off (after about 100o miles, atleast how I ride)
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Submitted by
Russ Meyer
a cross-country rider
from Date Reviewed: July 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
So far through my experience these are the best tires I have ever owned. I live in KY and we have had the wettest year in history. As you can imagine my riding mainly consists of riding through the most extreme mud that you can think of. These tires shed mud like you would not believe. One race in particular comes to mind, part of the trail was a connector road and when I came off of the trail two guys near me slid out and biffed hard because of mud meeting slick pavement. I picked up a couple of spots because these tires stick to everything. I love them. Buy them you will love them too.
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Submitted by
Lee
a weekend warrior
from CO Date Reviewed: July 19, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires suck. I have had them for about a month and there are at least ten knobbies which have either ripped completely off or are just barely hanging on. They can't stand any abuse whatsoever. The rubber is way too soft to handle anything other than just dirt. No rocks, no logs. What's the point?
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Submitted by
Simon
a
from downhiller Date Reviewed: July 16, 1998
Bottom Line:
CRAP!!!! that is all i can say, unfortunetly thease tyres came on my GIANT ATX 1 and i was gutted, acceleration is sketcy where as cornering is not a patch on the irc missile or the amazing tioaga factory lastability is bad and the tyres wear fast please please DONT BUY THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Submitted by
ZoomBoy
a racer
from MA Date Reviewed: July 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
I can only speak for myself so let me just say that these are the best all around tires I have ever ridden. Low rolling resistance. Excellent in the stickiest mud. Flat resistant. I'm still amazed at the traction these provide. I can climb over anything. If you can't climb with these maybe you should work on your technique. Sure the feel funny on pavement but I bought them to ride in the dirt. They might wear quicker than others but they are worth every dollar I spent!
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Submitted by
Shawn
a cross-country rider
from Maryland Date Reviewed: July 14, 1998
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These tires are very poor. I have had them for about 1 year and they handle the worst. Cornering is loose and climbing traction is weak. Please don't waste the time buying these things. The only thing great about these tires is mud doesn't stick, but then again neither does the tire.
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Submitted by
ZUKILL
a cross-country rider
from Ljubljana,Slovenia,EUROPE Date Reviewed: July 8, 1998
Bottom Line:
I will be very short: - I have two front tires: green and black Wildgripper 2.0. First was originally on my STS1, second one i bought 9 months later. - Both tires showed premature worn-out (cracks on outside wall, near knobs, center knobs are much shorter then outside knobs) - Both tires punctured inner air-tube two times each. There was cracks in inner wall side and cracks were getting bigger, so padding with flicks was only temporary solution. The problem was on SPRINT tires same... - Tires are pretty expensive here (41$ each) - Weigth is average for top-of-the line ones. - Performance is mediocre, but be carefull on dusty turns, some tires can grip it better (personal experience)... Result:Quality: 1 Price: 2 (they should be cheaper for that quality) Performance: 3 (nothing special) Weigth: 3 (mid-range) Durance: 2 (i had 4 tires [2 SPRINT, 2 Wildgripper front] after 9 months 3 of them were constantly puncturing my tubes???) ------------------- Suma: 11/5=2,2 ---> 2 'DEAD FLAMING HORSE' Conclusion: Michelin should do more Research&Develop before putting this tire on market, 'cause I'm willing to pay high price only for quality product, not for more R&D on my expense... I won't buy from them anything for two seasons at least...
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Submitted by
dan
a racer
from Calgary, Canada Date Reviewed: July 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
THEY SUCK !!!!!!!!!!!!!! the only time that i can see them being usefull is in thik chunky mud if you keep your speed up ............. i found that they where totaly usless in corning because of the lack of tread on the out side of the tire ........ and don't bother trying to go fast in a technical sections you'll be all over the place ......... but hay the green looks cool
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Submitted by
monkeyboy
a cross-country rider
from Redfiel,Sd Date Reviewed: July 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have some wild grippers with green treads(I didnt bother to find out the names to them), and I love them to death. They are the best all around tire I have ever had!! The only time I ever wrecked cause of loss of traction was in mud, and I don't think there is a tire out there that will hold a turn in really soupy mud. I have never had a better tire!! I give these 5 flaming bananas.
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Submitted by
Danny
a cross-country rider
from Belgium Date Reviewed: July 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires are one of the best tires in his category... extremly good for bad weather conditions like here in Belgium... It's gives you EXTREME grip in slimy mud, but he might slip on little trees. It might not be the best solution in a ROCKY enviroment. In lite sand (white sand like beach sand) it does offer VERY MUCH resistance.. but it ensures you that't you will keep going straight !!!
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Submitted by
Roger Orr
a weekend warrior
from Redfield, South Dakota Date Reviewed: June 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
Best set of tires I've ever owened. I'm using the Wildgripper Black wire bead 2.1's. These are a little heavier than the Lite S, but the extra durability in the sidewalls is worth the extra weight. The tread design makes for a very grippy tire in all conditions that I have encountered. Cornering and handling are excelent, these tires beg to be ridden aggressively, and behave best when you do. I have experienced some of the washout tendencies some to the other reviewers have spoken of, but only when I was in loose gravel over hardpack. I have to give this tire a 5 peper rating!
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Submitted by
Nikolai
a cross-country rider
from Blacksburg, VA Date Reviewed: June 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
I got a rear wildgripper last fall for my rear wheel. It has really good traction for climbing in all sorts of conditions, but the tire is really soft. The little knobs started tearing off almost immediately. I also experienced some flopping described in a previous review but only on the road when I would take a turn really tight. I was cleaning my bike off this spring after a ride and I noticed that the sidewall had 5 tears in it big enough to slip a nickel in. The trails around here a pretty rocky, but I need a tire that's more durable than that. I can't afford to buy too many of these.
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Submitted by
Jeff Hilfiker
a cross-country rider
from NH Date Reviewed: June 18, 1998
Bottom Line:
I love these tires! I got a pair of these last summer and have been riding on them since.. I've been through a lot of wet weather, and I have to say these things behave better in the mud than any tire I have ever seen.. As for all the complaints about the tread rolling over on pavement, all I have to say is WHO CARES! That's why they call it a MOUNTAIN bike.. You don't see a whole lot of pavement on mountains do you?? I've actually been forced to ride quite a bit of road with them, and I have to say that yes there is a slight stability problem, but it's nothing dangerous.. If you dont feel the need to ride with no hands the entire ride, you can always keep yourself in a strait line.. Plus these tires just look cool.. I cant say they would look good with all bikes ( My friend has an orange Stump Jumper that they would look aweful on ), but on mine it's a perfect fit.. In conclusion, get some of these tires.. They are durable, stylish, mud- shedding, all_terrain, all_weather, kick-ass tires..
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Submitted by
Hill Pig
a cross-country rider
from Stoddard, WI Date Reviewed: June 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
This review is for the Wild Gripper Lite S Rear 2.1 only. I have only used it once, but that one time happened to be the Sport race at the Welch Village NCS race which wasn't really in Red Wing, MN. The course was recovering nicely from rain and it was about half dry for our race. It contained sand, hardpack, mowed grass, slimy singletrack, sticky mud sections, and many water bottles and GU wrappers. I would have to say that this tire works in just about everything. Hardpack, the knobs squirm when you try to sprint or corner hard, but it never lets go. Flattened grass, they don't pick any up, and maintain good cornering. Sloppy mud, it all works its way off in just a few rotations. Sticky mud, doesn't really collect. I saw a lot of guys running Specialized tires and those new Panaracers that were totally plugged with mud, but the Michelin stayed clean. Tree roots, as good as any I guess, but I say that wet tree roots are worse than icy patches. Someone should make an extract for fork lube. Overall, they are a confidence inspiring choice for cross-country racing. Not confidence inspiring enough to afford me the nerve to chat with Katrin Bruell, but I didn't see that promised in the documentation for the tire anyway. Five digested Powerbars from a very average rider.
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Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Baltimore Date Reviewed: June 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires came with my bike. When I got home I cut some nobs off, some rider from Litespeed said he did it so I thought it would be good. Well I guess those factory teams get tires like everyride but after about a month the tire pinched my tube and I get flats. The front tire, which I did not do this to, is perfect with no probs. I guess I shouldn't have cut my nobs off. Judging from my front, its a great tire, a little bit slow though cause the nobs.
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Submitted by
Ben
a cross-country rider
from Tejas Date Reviewed: June 7, 1998
Bottom Line:
MY bike is a pretty heavy hardtail with crappy(heavy)wheels, and my friend has a sweet, superlite fisher Paragon with kevlar Velociraptors. Riding at the Hill Country State Natural Area, the most kick butt nasty place on the planet, these climbs are like cliffs, I left him in my wire-bead dust uphill and then kicked his butt on some sicko downhill runs. The traction on these puppies is incredible when seated, and if you are smooth, its great when standing. Michelin says they brake well, and they aren't kidding. coming down this hill, I had just spun out my 46x11, and this freakin' ledge jumped out at me and I was able to slow down enough to clear it without smearing on the turn which followed. And this is with crappy Alivio canti's! 5 smokers
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Submitted by
Joe
a racer
from Hamilton, NY Date Reviewed: June 5, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires kick butt. I have been amazed at the climbing ability of the tire over the most challenging terrain (it could be partially due to my new Unicoi too though). Yes, they are squirrely on the pavement, but if you bought them for that purpose you've got bigger things to worry about !! I bought the 1.95's thinking that they would offer a little weight savings and lower rolling resistance and I can honestly say that they are the BEST tires I've ridden yet !!
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Submitted by
Nate Sonkiss
a weekend warrior
from Waterford Michigan Date Reviewed: May 31, 1998
Bottom Line:
I'd heard so much good about the Wildgripper Lite S I just had to try them for myself. It took some time to get used to their handeling but after a while I discovered how great they were. I was greatly impressed by the climbing ability these tires gave me, I have riden few tires that have the all around good that these did.
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Submitted by
Roy
a cross-country rider
from UK Date Reviewed: April 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
Been riding the WG (mud) on the back of my hardtail for the whole winter - wet,wet, wet(this is the UK) on flint,chalk,clay and over the axles through water. Just can't be beat the WG for grip and clearing. - put one on the front last we. and on 1st ride performs as good as the rear. Great price too
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Submitted by
Mike
a weekend warrior
from NJ Date Reviewed: April 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have had these tires for one year now and I am still tring to kill them. Now according to a fried his Velocaraptors are better than these but I have kept up with him wiothout any problems. After almost 150 miles offroad and 100 on road these tires show no sings of whear. The only problem that I have had is that I tore that skin wall open on a rock and destroyed a tube.
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Submitted by
Bryan
a cross-country rider
from BC Canada Date Reviewed: April 12, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires are awsome in the mud and on dry dirt. They grip the ground and they also roll good on dry hard ground. They have a cool green color and look awsome. They don't wear down as fast as others but wtb's are awsome also. 5 5 5 5 5 5
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Submitted by
Robert Harper
a cross-country rider
from Raleigh NC Date Reviewed: April 11, 1998
Bottom Line:
Excellent tire. North Caroling has forest conditions with roots and often wet sections of trail with much humus. These tires grip well in these conditions especially on roots and rocks they are not to great on loose gravel. The wider spacing of pegs clears mud well, no packing like other tires. After 200+ miles no pegs are missing.
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Submitted by
Brad Lim
a cross-country rider
from MALAYSIA Date Reviewed: April 9, 1998
Bottom Line:
MICHELIN WILDGRIPER Lite S is a damn good tire. The compound, Silicium, which makes this tire looks green, is one of the best compound in tire industry. The well designed thread, has a low rolling resistance, and won't stick mud. My friend and I was going up-hill one day, the trail condition is bad and the slope of the trail is about 45 degree. So, only one of my friend got up wihtout stopping by using this tire. I bought one pairs after this. This really fantastic. Overall, this is a good tire.
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Submitted by
syncro
a cross-country rider
from Date Reviewed: March 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
These tires rule ! They are fast and have amazing grip ! I never had any probblems in the last years ! I love them ! Five stars ! I will always buy this tires again because the price is also all right ! They also look very coll ! Bike on folks !!!!!!!
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Submitted by
Phil S
a cross-country rider
from UK Date Reviewed: March 10, 1998
Bottom Line:
REAR This one has really impressed me and makes up for the shortcomings of the front. It is light and fast, never gives way in a corner (not before the front anyway), and has really impressive traction in most conditions. I can now contemplate wet root singletrack and steep loose climbs that I couldn't manage on my old ZMax. Plus it is comfortable at a higher pressure (I run 40 psi).
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Submitted by
Phil S
a cross-country rider
from UK Date Reviewed: March 10, 1998
Bottom Line:
FRONT Has some good points but it has such a bad flaw that these are irrelevant. Good points are that it is light, rolls with very little resistance in a straight line, and clears mud pretty well. However, the design of the tread (a thin line of knobs at the centre then a gap before the next row of knobs either side) means that it has a nasty habit of 'flopping' the steering onto the side knobs when leaning into a corner. In the middle of this transition is where you lose your grip and your line and seem to have to fight to control your steering input. This is most noticeable on wet rock or tarmac, which is exactly where it hurts the most if you stack.
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Submitted by
Curt Hagemeier
a cross-country rider
from Atlanta, Ga. Date Reviewed: February 2, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have used a lot of different tires in the past but my absolute favorite has been the Wildgripper. I like to run my tires a little higher than normal pressure and this is the first tire that still feels sticky at higher pressures. The funny thing is that these tires stick so freakin well that they actually take a while to get used to them.
$
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