The FireXCPro square-profile, variable-height Torch Tread grips all terrain all the time, while the Burning Edge side knobs put cornering on rails. The Absolute F&R system means you can run the same tire front and rear, and there's Ant-SnakeBite protection too. Choose from 2.1 or 1.8-inch widths.
Submitted by
jbx tacos
a Cross Country Rider
from Eagle, Idaho Date Reviewed: November 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
The secret one
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
Lightweight, great traction in most conditions, durable, bad-ass color choices
Weaknesses:
Packs up with sticky mud(but what tire doesn't)
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Komodo, Weirwolf, Velociraptor
Bike Setup:
KHS Softtail
Bottom Line:
These are the best tires I have ever used. I have used them in every trail condition imaginable and they have always done great. I have put over 2000 miles on my latest pair and they are still railing the corners. My only complaint is the tread doesn't shed the thick mud very well but I tend to avoid muddy trails so its not a huge problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AMMAN
a Cross Country Rider
from HotLanta Date Reviewed: November 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
InDaWoods
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Various Locations
Strengths:
Durable, Predicatable, affordable, nimble, adaptable to most trail conditions, corners very well, in wet technical climbs it hooksup extemely well and all at a decent weight
Weaknesses:
You can end up with a heavier knock-off version, if you buy from wrong location
Similar Products Used:
Many WTB tires and Hutch Pythons (good tire too)
Bike Setup:
I use these on a few different bikes
Bottom Line:
Rode Pythons forever, switched to the Fire XC Pro because of weak side walls on the Hutchinsons. Gained a little weight and a ton of durability in the conversion. The exrta weight was well worth it. I will still run Pythons as steer tires in hard pack. Performance: Ive never ridden anything better than the Fire XC Pro. It does everything very good (dont ride in sand or extream mud so can not really comment here). Grabs corners, rarely slips on climbs and blasts through rock gardens without ruining the side walls. I have several sets of these tires on multiple bikes, some over three years old. I've only experienced one side wall failure and worn out the tread on one. For those who say these do not handle well, I suggets you run them in the correct direction for the wheel you have them mounted on. I mistakenly ran my rear tire backwards and had some pretty bad results. Realized what was wrong, re-mounted the tire and got perfect performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtbdss
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Mill, SC Date Reviewed: October 28, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Sherman Branch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Great grip in corners, and over roots, rocks, and just about everything else. Relatively low rolling resistance considering the tread depth.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
You name it.
Bike Setup:
08 Kona Four Supreme--nothing stock except the frame
Bottom Line:
Had to see what all the great reviews were about. I got the 127TPI made in Japan version, and OMG these are the best tires for XC period. I had to push myself not to brake as much approaching/in the corners since these things just GRIP. As if these tires needed another great review...but I couldn't not leave a review as these tires definitely exceeded my expectations.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wiggy
a Cross Country Rider
from west jordan, utah, usa Date Reviewed: October 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
pipeline, rattlesnake gulch, crest, mormon pioneer trail.....and many more
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
predictable handling
fast rolling / lower resistance
good traction in most conditions (minus snow/sand)
great all purpose tire for trails / street (use these on my dual purpose hard tail to bring home groceries and dog food in the bob trailer)
good wear resistance close to 3000miles on this set (1500mi trails/1500mi streets)
good flat protection
red and black looked pretty kick ass on my gold bike!
Weaknesses:
tire doesn't clear well in muddy conditions but for those rides i use the wtb velicaraptor
i would recommend this tire to most everyone except people who ride in mud/snow/sand - it rolls fast, flat resistant, predictable, confident handling, stopping, and acceleration overall its a great tire for hitting the trails, and does a great job on the streets as a grocery getter or as a daily commuter tire
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin C.
a Cross Country Rider
from North Providence, RI USA Date Reviewed: October 12, 2009
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Great traction in every condition (except deep sand...but what tire has good traction in sand?) Kevlar sidewall pretty much makes pinch flats impossible. Great rolling capabilities. All around excellent tire for XC riding.
Weaknesses:
None found yet.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager
Bike Setup:
XTR
Bottom Line:
Absolute best cross country tire on the market. Would not ride on anything else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slobberdan
a Weekend Warrior
from Aldershot, UK Date Reviewed: October 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Whites level, Glyncorrwg
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$55.00
Strengths:
Cornering, predictability, price
Weaknesses:
sidewalls can tear easily (in my experience)
Similar Products Used:
Maxxis High Rollers, Continental Mountain King
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic Marathon 2007
Bottom Line:
You can trust your line and speed into any corner with these tyres.
Although they can be cumbersome in wet, sticky and boggy conditions (i.e. South Downs, UK), these tyres are an essential component of my bike. For the hardpack, slate and granite trails of North, Mid and South Wales, these tyres are perfect and have my full confidence when approaching tight switchbacks, multiple dropoffs. The front or the rear have never washed out in my 2 years of using these tyres. I switch to softer rubber compounds such as the Bontrager Mud X for soft ground winter riding but this is not the terrain you usually find at UK trail centres.
p.s the $55.00 price is a UK conversion from £30.00
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SoFlaBiker
a Weekend Warrior
from South Florida Date Reviewed: October 2, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Morkham Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$29.00
Purchased At:
Price Point.com
Strengths:
Great value for the money, seems well built & designed.
Weaknesses:
The tire came 60 t.p.i not the 120 t.p.i, that's alright I don't sweat the small stuff.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Connection Trail 26X2.0
Bike Setup:
G.F.2009 Tarpon, have replaced most of the Bontrager bar, stem, seat, seat post and pedals
Bottom Line:
I have learned alot about mountain biking and what makes a real mountain bike and what doesn't since I started in Nov last year. I just know these tires will be a major improvement over the stock tires that came with the bike. Just gotta hang on till I can get a better bike with better components.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Disciple
a Weekend Warrior
from Ohio Date Reviewed: September 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Lake Hope
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Fast Rolling Great traction in the corners
Weaknesses:
A Little lower Profile than I like.
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Spider Air Lights Bontrager Jones axc
Bottom Line:
These are a great tire for the money - for a weekend warrior. I have noticed and increase in speed and cornering since switching from the Spiders. Traction seems great in dry conditions. They are durable and still seem to give good traction in the rock gardens and over roots.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mnigro
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbus OH Date Reviewed: September 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Dillon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Last long, cheap, roll OK.
Weaknesses:
Lack traction in most non-hardpack conditions.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Fast Trak, Conti MK's
Bike Setup:
Used on both HT and my FS
Bottom Line:
I cannot see why these tires are so raved about. I think they are pretty bad. I've used them at various PSI on various terrain and still cannot find one good thing about them. They wash out all the time, don't stick to rocks roots, etc. NEVER use these on wet roots, rocks, mud. You'll kill yourself. About the only place I like them is on hardpack. Look for something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
G-ran-T-Rider
a Cross Country Rider
from Lake Oswego, Oregon, U.S. Date Reviewed: August 29, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Pinocchio's Furniture
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Catmandou
Strengths:
Strong, Sticky, Grip well on large rocks as well as small rocks, gravel, hardpacked dirt and roots.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptor, Motoraptor, Bontrager Jones XR
Bike Setup:
GT Rebound Frame, Alivio/Deore, Rock Shox Indy S, Alexrims and these tires.
Bottom Line:
These are great tires for cross country, light all mountain and even on-road. They grip well allowing me to climb in many more conditions than my old velociraptors did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
deadmike420
a Cross Country Rider
from cincinnati,ohio Date Reviewed: August 26, 2009
Favorite Trail:
anything dangerous
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Light, good tire for dry and smooth surfaces and no roots.
Weaknesses:
Traction is weak, inspires fear in me when going around corners. Anything wet will not work well with this tire.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Excavator
Bottom Line:
OK tire for easy and dry trails. Throw some wet roots or rocks and you'll guarantee to slide. I like mine for pavement use. Don't let these get close to any mud, it just sticks in the tread for about a day. Don't see why they cost so much, should be 10 a tire. Doesn't grip on technical sections, just slides around on rocks. Always got more flats with these, unnatural.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BeerBikeBerm
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: August 22, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good wear resistance, coloured sidewall, cheap, durable
These are the worst "high performance" tires I have ever used. I was tempted by the price, and yes, I know there are cheaper versions out there, but these ARE the quality high thread count version I am reviewing. I have used a few pairs of these (on friends bikes and mine) and the only things they have going for them are price and how long they last. If you want a reliable tire that sucks for a long time, get this or get one of those tires off of a WalMart bike. I hate to be a negative nancy, so I will say that if you want a long lasting tire at an extremely cheap price, these are it. But if wet roots, dry rocks, stream crossings, mud, sand, I dunno...SOIL, are in your way as you ride, these will make it more of a challenge.
Someone please explain why these are so popular? I guess I can see why they are so cheap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
harpsm
a Weekend Warrior
from Rockville, MD Date Reviewed: August 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Schaeffer Farm
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Great grip on hardpack, inspires confidence on fast downhills and cornering.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Mosquito
Bike Setup:
2002 stock Jamis Durango
Bottom Line:
I rode on my original Mosquito tires for years and never knew what I was missing til I tried the XC Pros. Cornering is so tight that I find myself having to relearn my riding limits and unlearn my Mosquito-related fear of leaning into tight turns. I can pound over roots and logs like never before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
senorspeedy
a Cross Country Rider
from edwardsville, il, usa Date Reviewed: July 21, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
light, grippy, wear resistance, durability
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
Schwinn Mesa GS, marzocchi marathon sl, velociy v deep, this tire
Bottom Line:
A very versitile tire for most conditions. It climbs, corners, brakes, and sheds mud very well. I would recommend this to most any xc or am rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kjsayers
a Weekend Warrior
from Indianapolis Date Reviewed: July 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Westwood
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Great price, durability, cornering grip
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
others
Bike Setup:
Tassajara code front brakes, juicy 5 rear, Rampage 2.35 front
Bottom Line:
This tire has been great. I would buy again and recommend to someone. I will probably try another, but would not hesitate to buy it again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lssyac
a Cross Country Rider
from rugby Date Reviewed: July 14, 2009
Favorite Trail:
cotswolds
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
lmbs
Strengths:
Average road tyre, reasonable braking in the dry tarmac
Weaknesses:
mud sticks to it, loses grip mid corner in gravel and slightly damp mud. no confidence going in to corners. don't like to break to hard on the front in the mildly damp stuff. punctures easily
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Claw, Richtley z max, richtley speed max
Bike Setup:
hard tail, disk brakes, dodgy front forks (suntour)
Bottom Line:
bit too pricey for the quality, OK for road work when you think you might meet a bit of dirt. take a fresh pack of self adhesive punture repair skins if you're going off road
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CDA MTBer
a Weekend Warrior
from CDA, ID USA Date Reviewed: July 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Many....hmmm
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
CBO
Strengths:
These have been good multi purpose tires. They wear well
Weaknesses:
pinch flat easy
Similar Products Used:
Geax, Hutchinson, specialized, WTB, Michellin
Bike Setup:
AM full suspension
Bottom Line:
These are a good all around tire. They don't do anything great but they are not terrible either.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jpsmit9
a Cross Country Rider
from arkansas Date Reviewed: June 20, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
lewis and clark
Strengths:
confidence in corning
Weaknesses:
I had 3 flats in two rides on a trail I had been riding for a long time on my old tires without a flat. No one else in my group got flats, except for me. And did I mention 3 of them.
Bottom Line:
would not recommend. flats are a pain and the tires were not resistent to much, though they did handle well on corning
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
willyskip
a Cross Country Rider
from Nice, France Date Reviewed: June 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
french Alps
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Light, sticks perfectly on dry terrain, rolls fast, confidence inspiring.
Weaknesses:
Thin sidewells, not suitable for rocky terrain and agressive riding.
Similar Products Used:
hutchinson scorpion (rubbish), Kenda Nevegal,Maxxis larsen, etc.
Bike Setup:
Xc hardtail
Bottom Line:
I ran these tires on french alps (hardpack, rocks, lots of switchbacks, mainly dry) for 6 months. Confidence inspiring, smooth rolling, they stick on everything when dry, and decently on wet ground. Really improved my riding and made me improve my skills. The only problem : thin sidewalls on aramid version. I had lots of pinch flats on rocks. (that's why only 4 chilis)
If you don't ride too often in rockgardens, buy them immediately. They're really owesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
highdesertrider
a Weekend Warrior
from Klamath Falls OR Date Reviewed: May 15, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
PP
Strengths:
Fairly light, great traction and relatively low rolling resisitance; economical
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptor and Maxxis High Roller
Bike Setup:
IH MKIII 2008 stock, Maxxis High Roller 2.35 Front and the Panaracer 2.1 in back
Bottom Line:
I am really impressed with this tire, compared to my Maxxis that came with the bike, granted it was worn out after one season. Great traction on steep uphills and still fast in the flats. I have not used it long enough to make any comments on durability. Also seems to clear of mud better than the Maxxis. It also holds well with braking on steep down hills and curves also. For the price, I am very pleased. I run it at the lower end of the pressure rec. and have had no problems with pinch flats in the very rocky terrain I ride. I will buy another when this one wears out. It fits this bike well, since clearance can be an issue in the back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pixelguru
a Cross Country Rider
from Newark, DE, USA Date Reviewed: May 14, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Middle Run
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Excellent traction, long wear, stable and dependable handling.
Weaknesses:
Not a mud tire, and a little too much rolling resistance for really buff trails. Eventually the sidewalls will give out.
Similar Products Used:
Various Continental and WTB tires
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Chameleon SS
Bottom Line:
I'm tempted from time to time to try other tires, but always come back to Fire XCs as they are truly a wonderful all-around XC mountain bike tire. I wore my last pair down until they were nearly bald in the center before a rock cut a gash in the sidewall and forced me to buy another pair. They might have a bit too much rolling resistance for some conditions on a geared bike, but I can hammer up hills on my singlespeed without any worry of slippage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AHTOXA
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, IL, USA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009
None, really. As others have mentioned they seem to run a little narrow for a 2.1 but it's hardly a weakness.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
Mainly stock Hardrock
Bottom Line:
I picked up my bike with a set of Specialized stock tires, which I don't remember the names of. I rode on those a few times and couldn't help but spin out and lose traction often.
I put the set of Fire XC Pros and it was a huge improvement. They climb very well as brake well on steep sections. Descending in any terrain is rather predictable in these and if slides happen, they are controllable.
Cornering traction is good. I was rater surprised at how good it actually was on a twisty singletrack with lots of old foliage on the ground. It also does well in the wet and over wet leaves.
Deep mud bogs them down. I didn't put that as a weakness because they are not really the tires designed for deep mud. I can't hold that against them.
Overall a great buy and I would recommend them highly. I was looking into getting a different set of tires just to try out when these wear out but this is solely because I like to try different setups.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gowenja
a Weekend Warrior
from Baltimore, MD Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
grip, agility, has a really lightweight feel, looks
I didn't know what I was missing before I got these tires. So much more agile and fun to ride then my previous IRC Mibros. They do seem to run narrow, but are a very fast rolling tire with fantastic grip climbing and cornering. Also have a very lightweight feel. Rode like a dream last weekend when it rained for my entire ride- wet rocks, logs and mud were no issue. All around great tire for all conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Teebird
a Weekend Warrior
from Foothill Ranch, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Luge
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Lightweight tire, very good traction on the rear when brand new.
Weaknesses:
Mine wore out very quickly on the rear (albeit I'm not a small guy);the tire used as a front was SCARY and I lost all confidence in it as a front.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Weirwolf 2.3" Front, Panaracer Fire 2.1" Rear
Bike Setup:
Ironhorse MKIII, RP23 shock, BWW Mavic 719 rims and BWW Pure hubs, Rock Shox Revelation Fork
Bottom Line:
I got the Panaracers 2.1" at Performance in the 120TPI for a great price and bought 3. I put 2, front and rear, on my 12 year old's hardtail Kona Cinder Cone and replaced the rear WTB Weirwolf on my MKIII. Seemed o.k. Well, my bearings went out on my bike and I swapped wheels with my boy. The front is HORRIBLE! It would be holding in a corner and then snap, I'm drifting. I lost all confidence in the tire as a front and my joy factor in riding went down. I recently replaced the rear Panaracer because it was sliding all over the place under braking. The knobs were wore down and I put another 2.1" Panaracer. Conclusion: Singletrack, lightweight riding with no real good downhills- tire is o.k. if you get it cheap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David9999999
a Weekend Warrior
from Wilton, CT Date Reviewed: April 19, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Rolling, cornering, looks...
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Bottom Line:
Working very well for me on the front (I'm using the 2.1). Corner great, wish I had got it earlier! Not to mention they look nice. For 20 bucks... you can't go wrong.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yaya
a Cross Country Rider
from London, UK Date Reviewed: April 8, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
eBay, new
Strengths:
Good winter tyre (we're talking GB mud & slush), good traction on roots and angled singles, predictable cornering and can run fairly low pressure for comfort. Reasonable wear
Weaknesses:
Not the lightest and quite noisy and slow on hardpack and tarmac
Similar Products Used:
Michelin WildGripper XC, Maxxis Tomahawk, Schwalbe Racing Ralph
Bike Setup:
Giant Anthem 0, RP23, Reba Race, XC717 and some XTR stuff
Bottom Line:
For the price it's a no brainer, they held nicely for 2 winters and 1 summer. Still have some life left but now I got the Racing Ralphs that are much lighter and faster - will see how I get one with them:-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mrilo
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, TX Date Reviewed: March 30, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bikes
Strengths:
Great traction and tread pattern…..and the red sidewalls make you faster.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Specialized, Bontrager Jones XR, Larsen TT
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Hi-Fi Deluxe
Bottom Line:
I will say moving to these tires should have come when I first got the bike last year, The Jones that came on the hi-fi could not corner and I lost all confidence in them. I kept telling myself I will change them…and kept putting it off….so 1500 miles later (not bad durability for the Jones) I have finally switched to the Fire XC’s. I thought going from the 2.25 to the 2.1 would change my handling, but no, they are great. Dry corners I would have never dreamed to take at high speed even when the Jones were new the XC’s pulled off with ease, so much more confidence in turns and high speed technical sections, and they climb great too. I know it is not much to say that they are better than the Jones as most tires seem to be, but I will put them up against stock specialized and the Larsen TT’s as well. Have improved handling and confidence in my riding, definitely recommend. As for durability, that I will have to wait and see on that as I have only had them a month and only about 150 miles on them….but so far so good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AK47
a Cross Country Rider
from Folsom, CA Date Reviewed: March 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
McKenzie River Trail, OR
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Traction, longevity, rolling resistance
Weaknesses:
Heavy mud, other than that, none.
Bike Setup:
Custom singlespeed
Bottom Line:
In an endless search for the "right" tire for me, I bought a set of these. After trying them for awhile, they sat in my garage for about 2 years. I then had a custom 26er singlespeed built, and was trying to shave weight off where I could. I then put the Panaracer Fires back on. After many rides, I am very impressed with this these tires. Very good all around traction, clears mud well, and wears well, too. I will buy another set once these give up the ghost.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike_d_1583
a Weekend Warrior
from cincinnati, oh Date Reviewed: January 11, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Great all around tire. Good traction in almost any condition. They hold up well, had the same pair for 6 months. Sidewalls hold up good.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized tires
Bottom Line:
A great value, don't waste your time with other tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
preludedriven
a Weekend Warrior
from Orange County, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: January 10, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Fullerton Loop
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Has a great tread pattern that's good for both Front and Rear, just by changing the rotation direction - Genius.
Comes in different sidewall colors (I have red currently, but might switch to black next time)
Super light for the size and type of tire
Weaknesses:
The 2.1" width rating is smaller than the usual, so am wondering if it's more 1.95" or 2" at the max.
There's 2 types of tires (japan & Taiwan versions). Get the Japan version that has a 127 TPI and is lighter weight. This tire has the large white text/logo along the sidewall! (not small color panaracer logo)
Similar Products Used:
ITS Ninja
Bike Setup:
2007 Iron Horse Maverick, 2008 RockShox Recon Race,
Bottom Line:
I've been searching for the lightest well-performing all-around tire, and I think this is it. Came close to getting some Kenda Nevegals, but read about their poor lifespan and so-so cornering performance. If u find a better tire than the Panaracer Fire XC, let me know!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jxoxexy
a Cross Country Rider
from Studio City, CA Date Reviewed: January 6, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Lightweight, rolling resistance (120tpi version)
Weaknesses:
As a front tire, these "2.1s" (more like 1.9), are sketchy on high speed curves, especially on loose/dry conditions even with low psi. I agree with the previous poster, I am thinking about putting my old/balding Specialized Captains back on the front.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Captains
Bottom Line:
Great value of a tire, but not as much grip up front for a supposed 2.1 size tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DjRomka
a Cross Country Rider
from Kfar Saba Date Reviewed: December 26, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Internet
Strengths:
Good cheap tire, lasts for a long time. Nice colors.
Weaknesses:
It`s said 2.1 but looks a little bit smaller.
Similar Products Used:
kenda klaw 2.1, bontrager 2.1
Bike Setup:
mongoose otero elite 2007 upgraded
fork marzocchi grand fondo 3, dual-air 105 m"m
shock manitou radium
Bottom Line:
Good for XC riders, on trail feels a little bit narrow.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tackhammer
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: December 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Lots
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Price point
Strengths:
Traction, durability, quality, looks.
Weaknesses:
Rolling resistance.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Rush
Bottom Line:
I love these tires. I just ordered my 2nd pair from Price Point. I thought about getting some Nevegals, then realized what a waste of money that would be. These tires are just great. You can't beat the price, and they work terrific. Gobs of traction, I run around 40 to 45psi to ward off pinch flats and it's worked for 2 years. Will continue to use them as long as they are available.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
atvkilla
a Cross Country Rider
from CT Date Reviewed: December 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Nass
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
Everywhere
Strengths:
Not too heavy, they're durable, good grip.
Weaknesses:
Not a huge fault, but a tad narrow for a 2.1. Also not fantastic wet grip. There is NO perfect tire for everything, though.
Similar Products Used:
Smoke/dart, Specialized tires
Bike Setup:
mtb
Bottom Line:
I've been through about 3 sets of these now. 1 set will last me a season (500-600 offroad miles). For the price, these cannot be beat. I laugh when I hear all these riders buying $40-$50 Kendas etc, when these tires grip fantastically and last reasonably well. I have never had any problems with sidewalls (as with all Specialized tires I've had), knobs chunking off, pinch flats, etc. Grip is tremendous in most conditions. They are not a mud tire, and traction is mediocre in wet conditions, but not poor. I've run both the 60tpi and 127tpi, and guess what? There's hardly a difference. Anyone who tells you the 127 is vastly superior likes to throw money away because I think the 60 is a little more durable, albeit a little heavier. In fact, I buy only the 60's now.
A riding partner of mine switched from Welociraptors which he loved to XC pros and he agrees they are a much better tire (with the exception of wet grip, where the raptors seemed to be better).
You won't be dissapointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dorcrycrystal
a Cross Country Rider
from las vegas, nv Date Reviewed: November 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
all at bootleg canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
rei
Strengths:
great all around tire, turns awesome, climbs good
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
kenda kinetics, wtb velociraptors , bontrager
Bike Setup:
trek fuel 70, rockshox tora 318, rockshox mc 3.3, panaracer xc pro fire 2.1
Bottom Line:
I have these tires running at around 38-40 psi, they grip pretty much to anything, great cornering tire, haven't had a pinch flat yet, seems to be lasting, great colors, although it says 2.1 i think its a little smaller, but nevertheless, they work great, low rolling resistance, and I would suggest these tires to any xc rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
boughey
a Weekend Warrior
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: November 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
China Camp
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
Cornering, versatility, all around good tire
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Resolution, WTB tires...
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, 90% stock
Bottom Line:
This tire is a great all around tire. The value is amazing. I got two tires for $35 at pricepoint. I got the 64tpi version and have no complaints.
This tire corners very well and serves as a great all around tire. I see no reason to spend more than $30 on a tire after this experience.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan
a Cross Country Rider
from Malta Date Reviewed: November 16, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Jensonusa
Strengths:
excellent all rounder with low rolling resistance (i have the 127tpi made in japan versions...very predictable, dependable, durable, at 580grams can be considered light
Weaknesses:
it is listed as 2.1 but looks more like a 1.9 or 2.0 at max....not really a fault. by their very nature, since these are all rounders they will not excel in any specif condition, this is not a weakness per se since if you want ur tyres to excel then simply swap tyres all the time depeding on the conditions
Similar Products Used:
Continental's, Ritchey, IRC Mythos etc
Bike Setup:
Giant Anthem
Bottom Line:
you can get these tyres in 2 versions, the 60 or 127 tpi....the 127 cost a few buck more but are much lighter and roll FAR BETTER due to the higher threads per inch....i have the 127's. they are excellent all rounders in all conditions which is perfect for me...each ride of mine is made up of tarmac, rock gardens, loose soil, dusty conditions and mud in the winter...these tyres perferm well in all and only provide little grip in clay....but if u want good grip in clay u need mud specif tyres and nothing less...these tyres are so excellent i have 2 spare just in case! I only wish panaracer makes the FR(beefed up wider version) using the same high perfermance construction like mine.....wud love to try a wider such tyre at front....panaracer can u hear me??
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ihelix
a Cross Country Rider
from Ohio Date Reviewed: November 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
The Wilds
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Speed
Cornering
Price
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevegal
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight
Bottom Line:
Upgrading to the Panaracer Fire XC Pro (2.1 front, 1.8 back) has made a world of difference in my riding; I am able to go faster and take corners without fear of washing out. I use these with Stans No Tubes and they sealed up perfectly. I ride singletrack in SE Ohio, a mix of clay based dirt, loose soil, rocks, roots...a little bit of everything; these tires are THE best I have ever owned.
My new Santa Cruz Superlight came stock with Kenda Nevegal 2.1 and I would not recommend those to anyone, unless they are the type to like slow tractor tires that wear out in less than 400 miles. Do not believe the hype.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
raulillo88
a Cross Country Rider
from Guadalajara (España) Date Reviewed: October 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rally, Enduro
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$6.00
Similar Products Used:
Hutchinson Bulldog, Ritchey Z-Max
Bottom Line:
A great prduct
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chunjin
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: October 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Nobel Canyon
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$27.00
Strengths:
I have been riding these tires for years. Every once in a while I will try something new and end up returning to these tires. They really hook up well in all conditions and hold up pretty well. I have far fewer flats with these tires compared to others which is just another plus.
Weaknesses:
would like a wider front tire but other than that none
Similar Products Used:
Bontager
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel EX9
Bottom Line:
Great tires that perform well, look great, come in cool colors and do not cost an arm and a leg like others.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RollingThunder
a Cross Country Rider
from Arizona Date Reviewed: October 1, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Strengths:
good rear tire
Weaknesses:
bad cornering front tire at speed
Similar Products Used:
specialized, brontrager
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Big Sur
Bottom Line:
These guys work just fine as a rear tire even in either direction of rotation (front/rear). BUT, am I the only person that doesn't like these as a front tire? I ride typical northern AZ trails and the front tire was washing out so much that I put my old worn out Bontrager tire that came with my bike back on the front. Also, contrary to another review, these tires don't provide good traction on snow or ice, but that's ok because they aren't really supposed to. I just don't want someone to get the wrong idea that they handle great in snow and ice. Do Panaracer employees write all the reviews of this tire on here or what?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
warpcow
a Cross Country Rider
from Sweden Date Reviewed: September 26, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
Long-lasting, anti-snakebite system works, good traction on rocks and roots. I'll be buying a new pair when the current ones die.
Weaknesses:
They spray back a lot; not a problem on the rear but the front one made me invest in a mudguard.
Similar Products Used:
IRC, Michelin, other Panracers.
Bike Setup:
S-S '98 Kona Lava Dome
Bottom Line:
They're the best I've used in over 12yrs of mountain-biking. A good balance of durability and traction (they're also surprisingly good on sheet ice and shallow loose snow). There is a fair amount of rolling-resistance on hardpack but I'd rather have traction on off-camber rock than speed. As a bonus I haven't had a snakebite puncture since I started using them almost 4yrs ago.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thing One
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver Date Reviewed: September 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Sweet traction in most conditions. Long lasting.
Weaknesses:
A bit sluggish-- that's not a bad trade-off-- but are essentially ramped due to the short knobs in front of the taller knobs.
Similar Products Used:
Maxis high rollers, WTB Weirwolf, Nano-Raptors ... Other cheaper no-names.
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain Element 30 with upgraded fork, wheels, and crank set.
Bottom Line:
Watch out if buying at Performance Bike. I just bought one in Denver, took off the cardboard wrapper that stated "580 grams, made in Japan" (127 TPI), and instead found it to be the Taiwanese 60 TPI version-- makes me wonder about other products sold there, or perhaps an honest mistake? Great tire however (127 version-- haven't tried the 60 TPI).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brokenchain
a Weekend Warrior
from Raleigh, NC Date Reviewed: September 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Hog Run
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Rolls good in the woods, great traction on hard pack and loose over hard pack, great traction on roots, good traction on larger rocks
Weaknesses:
Narrow, kicks up lots of sand/dirt when you are really moving, traction was ok on pea sized gravel over hard pack (not as good as my High Rollers)
Similar Products Used:
Not necessarily similar but, Maxxis High Roller, WTB Velociraptor, Maxxis Advantage
Bike Setup:
On One Inbred slot drop out set up single speed with RS Revelation and mostly DH or FR parts.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that these tires are very capable cross country tires. I was initially worried about rolling resistance because in the parking lots you can really feel the knobs rolling along. However in the woods they were fine. They turn in very tight, so tight I immediately had to change my cornering technique. They worked better than expected on roots. Better than my High Rollers did. My only complaint is the width of the tire. It's not really the tire's fault. This is the narrowest tire that I have ever ridden and I am used to having a little more cushion from wider tires. The Fire DH is wider but the width comes at a huge weight penalty.
The bottom line is, if you ride east coast single track with its roots and rocks and on mostly dry trails this is a solid option for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bluie-
a Cross Country Rider
from nashua, nh, usa Date Reviewed: August 23, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
cornering, climbing, handling, stopping
Weaknesses:
these fling up loose sand that my old ones never did, which is probably why they hold on to the ground so well :) time to buy some fenders.
Similar Products Used:
various bontrager tires
Bike Setup:
diamondback racing axis titanium
Bottom Line:
Just picked up my DBR Ti bike used and threw these tires on it. I took it out on some local trails and I'm very impressed with these tires... I can do things now that I never could before. I also feel much, much more confident tearing around corners, especially with loose debris. I also feel a LOT more confident at high speeds. I am using the 2.1", at first I was tempted to go for the 1.8's to save weight, but I'm so happy with these that I think I'll stick with them. They seem slim for 2.1" anyways.
Overall I would highly recommend them, for the price I couldn't be more happy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
clash9898
a Weekend Warrior
from richmond Date Reviewed: August 22, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
performace bike
Strengths:
good for xc riding,love my panaracer, its my second fav tire ever.
Weaknesses:
slips on steep climbs, none other than that
Similar Products Used:
kenda klaws, wtb velociraptors
Bike Setup:
diamondback responce xe with rst titan
Bottom Line:
i use the fire xc in the rear i find its not wide enough to perform well in the front, i use kenda klaws in the frint. exelent tire for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jwsb
a Cross Country Rider
from Sta. Rosa Philippines Date Reviewed: August 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Sta. Rosa, Tagaytay trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Grantrail Cycles
Strengths:
Nice all around tires, wet performance, sheds easier than other all-arounders, corners well / lateral grip, bites deep, predictable
Weaknesses:
Wears easy, inflexible to varying tire pressures, need to be run at higher pressure reducing comfort and potential mud performance
Similar Products Used:
Nevegal
Bike Setup:
Chumba XCL, XO, Revelation, Crossland
Bottom Line:
One of the best value in tires. Good all-around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin C.
a Cross Country Rider
from Coventry, RI Date Reviewed: August 20, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Price. Tough sidewall. Fast tire. Great in almost any condition for cross country riding. Also, being direction specific is a plus.
Weaknesses:
Loose sand...but then again what mountain bike tire is good in the sand.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Tires
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight
Bottom Line:
Execllent tire for cross country riding. Not overpriced. Great tire for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dial Tone
a Weekend Warrior
from Southern California Date Reviewed: July 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Bonelli Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Excellent traction, lower rolling resistance, PRICE!
Weaknesses:
Not for sand, too many thorn punctures (or is it just my luck), not for DH or aggressive descents
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones ACX
Bike Setup:
Fisher Hi-Fi Plus with other non-tire related bolt-ons
Bottom Line:
As my stock Bonty tires were starting to wear out I wanted to have a lighter XC-oriented tire rather than the stock AM / trail tires. I also wanted to be able to rotate the tires from front to rear (for longer wear) so side specific tires like the Smoke and Dart are out of the equation. Enter the Fire XC Pro! For under $25 for the Japanese made 127 TPI version at Performance Bike this was a steal!
On my first ride on my local dirt path, I could not feel the difference in rolling resistance. Perhaps TPI count was over rated, but when I rode on pavement it felt fast. Grip was an improvement compared to the stock Bontrager which would slide before finally getting grip.
Taking it to my favorite trail these tires really shined. With loose rock over hard pack fire roads and single track the Fire XC gripped the trail like it had claws. I didnt feel the rear tire loose grip at all. The front slipped a tiny bit on more agressive downhill turns but that could be attributed to loose conditions and aired up to almost max tire specs. Next time I'll air it down -10 PSI.
I believe this is the best all around XC tire for the Southern California trails. Ride these tires for its intended design and it wont disappoint.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
trumancapote
a Downhiller
from panorama, bc, canada Date Reviewed: July 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
freight train
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
fast, grippy, solid, flows great, can handle downhill
Weaknesses:
loose grip on wet rocks and wood
Bike Setup:
santa cruz nomad
Bottom Line:
great tire if you want to go fast
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chiplikestoridehisbike
a Cross Country Rider
from Southeast Date Reviewed: July 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$29.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Great all around tire. All of the reviews here pretty much sum it up. Seldom run out of grip. Handle rocks, roots, sand, mud, clay.
Weaknesses:
?
Similar Products Used:
Conti, Specialized, Bontrager etc.
Bike Setup:
steel hardtail
Bottom Line:
Hard to go wrong with this tire as an all purpose tire. 127 tpi 2.1 version is a great tire. There are lighter tires, faster tires, better mud tires. You could have three our four sets of tires and have the absolute best of all worlds, or just run these and get great performance with out the hassle of swapping tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
firedawg225
a Cross Country Rider
from Chievres, Belgium Date Reviewed: July 7, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA
Strengths:
They work great in all types of terrain. The other day i took them out after a rain here and went through sand, Shallow and deep mud, hard pack, and small drops about 1 to 2 feet no problems.
Weaknesses:
None really.
Bike Setup:
2007 HM Moab
Bottom Line:
These are the 127 TPI tires not the 66 TPI. there also the 2.1 version. From what i can see they work great. Grip everywhere. Deep mud they slide but they push through either way. Everywhere else these worked great. Tomorrow will be taking up so steep inclines see how they do. if you are a XC rider I'd buy these there great!! I think i'll be buying another pair for back ups.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ParkerColoado
a Weekend Warrior
from Parker,CO Date Reviewed: July 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
All of them.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
BlueSky
Strengths:
For Colorado dry trails and lots of loose material it was perfect. Cheap price makes it even better. Took it down super steep sections and back up with no loss of traction. I was very impressed. It doesn't take a pro to realize the tire was stuck to the trail going up and over sections I normally spin and lose traction on. Rides nice on hard surface too. At $20 you can afford to keep a few on hand.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Many
Bike Setup:
Trek
Bottom Line:
Great product of the price. Sticks like glue.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kiwijames
a Racer
from Lafayette, CA Date Reviewed: June 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Anything in Joaquin Miller Park
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
They grab and grip on anything, at almost any angle at almost any speed. Side traction is great and it sheds muck well. No pinch flats/snake bites
Weaknesses:
The knobs shear and tear off on DG and rock gardens.
Similar Products Used:
Was WTB Velociraptor rider for years...Kenda Nevegal Tomac and Kenda Small Block 8 combo.
Bike Setup:
Scott Spark 20, XT, Joplin, Juicy 7, Look Quartz, Dt Swiss X455, lots of carbon stuff. Panaracer XC Fire Pro 127TPI
Bottom Line:
Rode WTB Velociraptors for years and loved them, until one day one of my MTB group riders suggested the Pana Xc Fires...WOW!! My new Spark came with the Kenda Nevegals Tomac and Small Block...and they pushed and slid on the soils around here, I hated them on our regular routes. Put new 127TPI Fire XC Pros and all of the handling I expected from the bike is there. Some in our pod use the 60 TPI, easily distinguished by the small logo/decal, those hold up well but are heavier than the 127TPI and less supple. In reality we have love hates relationships with tires and have a propensity for being fair weather fans....I'm a devotee of the Fire Xc Pros.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
frdfandc
a Weekend Warrior
from Elkton, MD Date Reviewed: June 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
White Clay Area/Fair Hill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
These are pretty good. Once the tire pressure is dialed in, they are very predictable. Had zero front end wash out, even on loose/rocky ground.
Weaknesses:
None so far. These are the 60 tpi so we'll see how it goes
Bike Setup:
Haro Extreme Hardtail, Kona Kikapu Deluxe
Bottom Line:
I needed a set of tires to replace my old Panaracer Dart and Smoke. Did some comparison and decided to try out these Fire XC Pro's. Made a very good choice. I took these out for a good ride and they performed better than my Dart/Smoke combo which I loved. Only wished I could have found the 128 tpi Fire XC Pros locally. But for $19 each, these are way better than they cost.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
swmarc
a Weekend Warrior
from Kelso,wa Date Reviewed: June 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Growlers Gulch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
pricepoimt
Strengths:
This Tire is worlds above what I preveously used ( Kenda Blue Groove). I now understand how people make some of the steeper climbs. Before I got this tire I would always loose traction. Simply amazing.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Bike Setup:
Giant Yuckon
Bottom Line:
awesome
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Ogden, UT Date Reviewed: June 3, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Strengths:
Great grip
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Botranger ACX
Bike Setup:
2007 Trek 4500
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is I've only ridden a couple times with these, but let me make it simple:
There's a steep gravel-on-hardpack section of my usual trail that always gives me issues. I'll usually spin out and end up having to walk up the rest of the way. I put these guys on my bike before the season started, and on my VERY FIRST ride of the season, rusty as hell, my bike was glued to the trail. No issue. Can't wait to see how else these improve my ride as I get back in shape for the season.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Weekend Warrior
from Lubbock, TX Date Reviewed: May 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mae Simmons
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$52.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Good gripping on sand, hardpack, light mud
Weaknesses:
None that I can tell
Similar Products Used:
Hutchison Python, Bulldog, Conti Verts
Bike Setup:
Trance 2, XT Components, Mavic 317
Bottom Line:
Tested tires out on an epic ride today. Mostly hardpack single track, few sandstone rocks and roots. I'm a clyde, and going from a 2.3 tire to the 2.1 in this model scared me a little, but the tires were fast, held wonderful and I never felt me slip all day. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction with all the informative reviews!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Weekend Warrior
from Lubbock, TX Date Reviewed: May 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mae Simmons
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$52.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Good gripping on sand, hardpack, light mud
Weaknesses:
None that I can tell
Similar Products Used:
Hutchison Python
Bike Setup:
Trance 2, XT Components, Mavic 317
Bottom Line:
Tested tires out on an epic ride today. Mostly hardpack single track, few sandstone rocks and roots. Tires did great, never felt me slip all day. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction with all the informative reviews!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Weekend Warrior
from Lubbock, TX Date Reviewed: May 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mae Simmons
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$52.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Good gripping on sand, hardpack, light mud
Weaknesses:
None that I can tell
Similar Products Used:
Hutchison Python
Bike Setup:
Trance 2, XT Components, Mavic 317
Bottom Line:
Tested tires out on an epic ride today. Mostly hardpack single track, few sandstone rocks and roots. Tires did great, never felt me slip all day. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction with all the informative reviews!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick
a Weekend Warrior
from Lubbock, TX Date Reviewed: May 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mae Simmons
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$52.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
Good gripping on sand, hardpack, light mud
Weaknesses:
None that I can tell
Similar Products Used:
Hutchison Python
Bike Setup:
Trance 2, XT Components, Mavic 317
Bottom Line:
Tested tires out on an epic ride today. Mostly hardpack single track, few sandstone rocks and roots. Tires did great, never felt me slip all day. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction with all the informative reviews!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Isble
a Weekend Warrior
from Dayton Ohio Date Reviewed: May 22, 2008
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
Price Wear slow rolls great Grips well in most conditions.
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Nevegal
Bike Setup:
Giant trance x2
Bottom Line:
These are a great tire. Ive used them for about a year now and have had no problems with this tire. They wear slow and roll great. They have been through the drought we had last year and so far the very wet spring this year and i have no complaints.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darrin
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa, Fl Date Reviewed: April 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
too many to list
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$21.00
Purchased At:
Nashbar
Strengths:
grip well, light weight, good value, I like the red color.
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
WTB
Bike Setup:
99 Specialized Rock Hopper A1 Comp w/ XT and LX components
Bottom Line:
A lot of people in the SWAMP Mtb club use these and love them, so they come highly recommended.
Like others have said, make sure you get the good ones (127 tpi) and not the 60 tpi knock-offs. if you are paying under $20 per tire you are most likley getting the knock-offs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod
a Racer
from Ky, usa Date Reviewed: April 5, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
They grip well and wear slow
Weaknesses:
None that I can detect
Similar Products Used:
nevegals, mythos, mibros, blue groove, etc.
Bike Setup:
doesn't matter
Bottom Line:
I use these for my spring training tires because there is wet season in Kentucky and my faster tires are for dry coditions only. For wet or damp conditions these tires grip well, they're very predictable, inspire confidence, and wear slow. I can't think of anything else I would want from a training tire. Buy them
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jonathan
a Cross Country Rider
from king george va Date Reviewed: March 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
hollywood farm
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
nashbar
Strengths:
awesome traction
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
bontrager connection trail
Bike Setup:
trek 4300
Bottom Line:
make sure to get the 127 tpi casing you can get these at nashbar and performance performancehad the best price last time i checked -$22+ shipping
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a
from North Bend Date Reviewed: February 19, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Tressel trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
They are awesome, they grip on everything except deep mud (more than 3 inches) the colors are cool, i got red.
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
'08 rockhopper with FR wheels
Bottom Line:
I paid 34 for a pair from PRICE POINT (if you are going to get them do it now while they are cheap!) They have never failed me and i ride on EVERYTHING.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
corey
a Weekend Warrior
from se usa Date Reviewed: February 8, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
price, traction
Bottom Line:
good tires with good prices, can always find them for around 20 in the lighter folding version. Good traction, lost a few knobs, but in pretty severe rock gardens with 215 lbs of my body pushing them down.
pretty good mileage out of them it seems, never really kept track, but no complaints.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Freddie Mac
a Cross Country Rider
from Princeton, NJ U.S.A Date Reviewed: February 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Arcadia
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Greenfish
Strengths:
Great traction wet or dry, holds corners well, light weight, stable under braking, durable, and versatile.
Weaknesses:
Not the best in deep loam.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Nevgals, Vel Raptors
Bike Setup:
Klein Adroit
Bottom Line:
I bought these because of a friend's reccomendation and have been very pleased with their performance. I have the 2.1 in the back and the 1.85 up front. I have ridden all types of terrain with these for the last year for over 1000 miles, in good, bad, and really bad weather and they held fast. No flats, no knobbie loss, no issues... (I'm 5-11, 190. Also, you cannot beat the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pyrobob
a Weekend Warrior
from Florida Date Reviewed: January 19, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
great tread pattern. Works great in the 30 to 35 psi range.
Weaknesses:
non so far
Similar Products Used:
IRC, Bontrager
Bottom Line:
This tire is great for FL & TN terrain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Maguire
a Racer
from Boulder, CO, USA Date Reviewed: December 11, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Betassa, Heil Ranch, Hodges Dam
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Insane cornering, awesome traction in any conditions
Weaknesses:
slow tires when you don't need the traction
Similar Products Used:
velociraptors
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic with Hydro discs, chris king headset, race face drive train, sram cassette, shimano spd m240s
Bottom Line:
These tires are amazing for fast technical XC...the bottom line is you do not need the 127 tpi casing. I ride the cheaper taiwan version and they are still the best tires I have ridden...i have as strong confidence in corners as I do climbing of in mud or snow...on long rides you start to notice the high rolling resistance but don't let the snobs on MTBR tell you not to get the cheaper tires...they are just as good
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C. P.
a Weekend Warrior
from S.F. Bay Area Date Reviewed: December 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Water Dog
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Gotta get the real ones, 127tpi, made in japan. Great grip in most conditions and can run them at pretty low pressure without problems. Decent Rolling resistance for the amount of grip they provide. Not bad for the occasional run around town on pavement. Resist flats. You can find good prices too.
Weaknesses:
Not very good in the wet once the mud starts to get real sticky. The tread starts to get clogged up and they don't clear well, then they lose grip. Would not recommend if you do a lot of pavement pedaling. Look a little small for 2.1's
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Negeval / Blue Groove. Many others square block tires.
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC2. Mostly stock.
Bottom Line:
These tires are great for most riding conditions. Great traction, even when climbing out of saddle. Hold tight in turns. I had puncture flat problems with the Kendas(could have been bad luck), changed to the FireXC's and haven't had any flats with these guys. Better traction then the Kendas. Switched to WTB Velociraptor tires for the wetter winter conditions because the FireXC's clogged up when things started to get muddy. Try these tires, you'll be happy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Ekren
a Weekend Warrior
from Mooresville, NC Date Reviewed: November 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Solid cornering, excellent acceleration, never pinched a tube
Weaknesses:
they wear down kinda fast, but it is worth buying a new tire every 6 months for this kind of performance
Similar Products Used:
wtb and michelin
Bike Setup:
ironhorse mkiii comp with these tires
Bottom Line:
best durn tire i've ever riden. i've never pinched a tube and i'm 6'5" 240lbs. thats saying something. the grip of these tiresis amazing. you can jerk the handlebars in a washed out corner and not slip. 4 for value b/c they wear out pretty quick. but excellent tires overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Ekren
a Weekend Warrior
from Mooresville, NC Date Reviewed: November 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Solid cornering, excellent acceleration, never pinched a tube
Weaknesses:
they wear down kinda fast, but it is worth buying a new tire every 6 months for this kind of performance
Similar Products Used:
wtb and michelin
Bike Setup:
ironhorse mkiii comp with these tires
Bottom Line:
best durn tire i've ever riden. i've never pinched a tube and i'm 6'5" 240lbs. thats saying something. the grip of these tiresis amazing. you can jerk the handlebars in a washed out corner and not slip. 4 for value b/c they wear out pretty quick. but excellent tires overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Weekend Warrior
from Greenwood, IN USA Date Reviewed: November 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Valley Branch Retreat
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
Traction, never had a pinch flat running low pressure(less than 20 psi in the front 30 in the rear)
Weaknesses:
Rolling Resistance
Bottom Line:
i am a heavier rider (250 lbs) and These tires hook up in just about anything. I've been running these tires for about 3 years and there is no need to try anything else. Make sure that the tires are made in japan because there is a cheaper version that is not very good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, Idaho Date Reviewed: October 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Secret
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Weaknesses:
Rolling Resistance
Similar Products Used:
Kenda, Specialized, Panaracer, WTB
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic Pro
Bottom Line:
This is my 5th pair of Panaracer Fire XC Pro's and inbetween I have tried other tires to see if I was missing out on any better tires or technology. I recently tried a pair of Kenda Small Block 8's to improve my rollability and they were definitly very fast on the flats and climbs, but on the decent this is where the trade off of rollability and edge control lies. If you like to bomb down the hill with absolute confidence this tire will not let you down, end of story. It holds a tight cornering line on all riding surfaces, boulders well, and brakes on a dime. This is an tried and true classic all around XC tire.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gmoss
a Weekend Warrior
from Hickory, NC Date Reviewed: October 16, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
grips to the end, very predictable.
Weaknesses:
a slight bit more rolling resistance. edges chunk some
Similar Products Used:
Revolt, Raptors, etc. been using these a long time
Bike Setup:
2000 Santa Cruz Superlight, 2007 Intense 5.5
Bottom Line:
This tire has given me great performance for several years. They still work half wore out, but the edges will chunk some on rocky terrain, or as they age. I have never noticed a decrease in performance due to this. For the money, IMO, these tires are hard to beat.
JUST MAKE SURE YOU GET THE 120 TPI CASING, LIGHTER, ROLLS BETTER! unless of course you just want a good tire for a really, really cheap price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lou kosloski
a Cross Country Rider
from moriches ZNew york Date Reviewed: October 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
rocky point
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$39.00
Purchased At:
brands cycle
Strengths:
fire xc pros with the 127 tpi casing are great,the have low rolling resitence compared to the ones made in taiwan with the 66 tpi caing which feel like your dragging someone behind you
Weaknesses:
66 tpi casing feel like you have an anchor behind you,127 tpi casing tires made in Japna roll fast and feel like IRC mythos only they grab like your glued to the trail
Similar Products Used:
IRc mythos,Spec enduro pro,
Bike Setup:
cannondale super v lefty
Bottom Line:
I bought a set of the 66 tpi casing tires to get a little more grip then the IRC mythos which are great tires,these tires grab like you have glue on them,almost impossible to wash out in corners but I felt like I was towing someone behind me,Took them off and bought the kevlar 127 tpi casing ones that are made in Japan and I can't believe the differnce these things roll real fast and corner like nothing else.They look exactly the same but one ride and you'll feel the differnce
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
McGuillicuddy
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: October 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Great traction Look sweet Never flatted
Weaknesses:
Not a weakness necessarily, but rolling resistance probably higher than a racer would want for hard-pack single track
These are easily the best tires I've used, and a great value to boot. I ride southern Ontario singletrack and these tires are absolutely perfect for this terrain. I can't remember ever losing traction when it wasn't my own fault for improper weight distribution. Great product for a great price - for anybody doing regular all mountain/XC riding I can't see why you'd buy anything else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C
a Cross Country Rider
from NY Date Reviewed: September 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
??
Strengths:
Aggressive lugs, decent weight. Ok tire.
Weaknesses:
washes out in corners, sidewalls are weak.
Similar Products Used:
not important
Bike Setup:
cross country hardtail
Bottom Line:
I've found that the sidewalls tend to be pretty weak. Riding in the Catskills and Hudson Valley I've had to pump the pressure up to 50psi so that I don't pinch flat. At 40psi I was pinch flatting frequently. The terrain I ride is very rocky which is a factor also but I shouldn't need such high pressure in a tire. My Mythos XC tires that I ran before had no problems with pinch flatting on the same bike, riding the same areas with less pressure.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anthony Furlano
a Cross Country Rider
from Woodbridge, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: September 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Albion Hills Si-S18
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
They grip when i'm riding at angles my old tires would send me spinning for even tring it. Pointed rocks pertruding notty roots cause not so much as a scratch.
Weaknesses:
None. So Far. Who Knows.
Bike Setup:
'05 Jamis Dakas XC Comp full XT or better.
Bottom Line:
These are as advertised great tires for any level bike. they are priced lower than tire that receive little to no good user reviews. The ones that matter.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Grimsby Ontario Date Reviewed: August 31, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Kelso..Hardwood Hills
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Excellent cornering. Very stable laterally
Weaknesses:
A little heavy. A little too much rolling resistence.
I have had these tires on two bikes now. I had them on my last Cannondale hardtail. Instant traction. I rode on the Jones's until they were worn out. They were the WORST tire I have ecer ridden. Lean over and you could feel them fold. I just put a new set of the Fire XC's on and it's like I'm riding a different bike. I doo feel the extra weight though. The traction is worth the weight penalty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Indianapolis, IN, USA Date Reviewed: August 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Jensen usa
Strengths:
Grip, grip, grip!!! stable in the corners and decent under braking
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
XC
Bottom Line:
Recently mounted this tire for a trip to West Virginia. I used this tire on the rear in the 2.1 size. Went over all sorts of terrain and surfaces. Rocks, mud, sand, roots. They came out unscaved and in great condition. I did not notice any rolling resistance for the aggresiveness of the tire. This tire is great for the XC'er and any weekend warrior. A great all around tire. I will give it a longer period to see how durable they are.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Racer
from Traverse City, MI Date Reviewed: July 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
VASA trail system
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$16.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Kung-foo grip on the trail on technical out of saddle climbs; good grip in intermediate to loose terrain; handles predictably on fast, technical single track; seems to hookup very well in fast corners without feeling loose or sketchy; doesn't seem to knife around in big sand washes; tracks well on two tracks and fire roads.
Weaknesses:
The Fire XC's feel like a tractor tire and felt like they were very slow rollers. They could be a tough tire to lug around on dirt roads or anything hard pack.
Similar Products Used:
Continental Explorer and IRC Mibro Marathon
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR XC
Bottom Line:
Seemed like a decent do-all tire for the money. I felt that they really hooked up and handed very predictably. I was looking for something that rolled faster, so I was pretty disappointed with them. If you are an XC racer and want a good fast tire, I liked the Conti Explorers or the IRC Mibro Marathons. I went from my FSR that had the Fire XC's to a RM Element that had the Mibro's and it was night and day how much better the Mibro's rolled; not as predicatble of a handler though, they got a little sketchy when pushed. So, if a do-all tire is what you want, I think the Fire XC's are a good bet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Pacific, MO Date Reviewed: July 27, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Chubb Trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
bikenashbar.com
Strengths:
Feels very responsive!
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones AC
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 90, Rock Shox Psylo SL, Fox Float R.
Bottom Line:
I just put a new one on to replace the same tire. I love this tire. It is very good responsive tire. Plus you can't beat the price!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Malaysia Date Reviewed: July 19, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Bottom Line:
After a year, it is still perform great. Still taking those sharp tight single trail corners with confidence. For this tyre, I never had a flat so far before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Weekend Warrior
from Raleigh,NC,USA Date Reviewed: July 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
paris mtn
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$26.00
Purchased At:
blue sky
Strengths:
Grip, durability (so far)
Weaknesses:
maybe a little heavy, no biggie
Similar Products Used:
IRC Mythos XC, Hutchinson Scorpion
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Super V400, WTB saddle, Fire XC Pros
Bottom Line:
Great tire. I switched out my Mythos because they wore extremely fast (noticeably after about a week), and because they felt a little nervous around sharp, loose turns. Bought these based on a bicycle shop suggestion and absolutely love them. I put about probably 15-20 miles on them in the 3 or 4 days I've had them so far and have no complaints. They do everything I want them to do. The stuff we do is pretty rocky and stumpy... I've ridden these tires in dirt, mud, rocks, up and down in the last 2 or 3 days and these tires have done everything as good as or better than my last tires. Definately recommended!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Sound Beach, NY, USA Date Reviewed: July 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Glacier Ridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great grip in all but sand! Light!
Weaknesses:
Blew off my Mavic 717 twice. Handles horribly after 1 year of wear.
Great tire! Done after about 1500 miles. Much better than other tires I've used.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Hoff
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento Date Reviewed: May 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Folsom Lake Dyke 8 to Salmon Falls
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
They stick to the trail and corner very well. Great value and haven't had a pinch flat in over 5 years. I use the 2.1
Weaknesses:
Not designed for racing so don't buy them if you do. The rolling resistence is some what high but that is the price you pay for the grip.
Similar Products Used:
1.9 specialied 02 Rockhopper stock tire. Noticeably faster than the panarcer but wasn't as good for rocks and 215lb rider.
Bike Setup:
2002 dual suspention Specialized Rockhopper. LX Drive train exept shifters. LX crank, Judy C fork, fox float rear 4", sette xlr bars( .75inch riser), LX brake levers, rim brakes(still work great but not as sexy as disks), Blackburn quadrant light, XC fire pro tires(love them). XT hubs with Ryno lite XL rims--Rest is stock.
Bottom Line:
These tires really Hook up. These tires have suprised me while climing some tricky terain. Don't race them just ride them. I did hit a rock and tore the side wall. They still ran fine for months. I rotate my new tire up front then the old one in back. Rear tire will get chewed up from rocks over time like any other tire. Once chewed up I will get a new one for the front and rotate the old one back. Great stability, price, grip, durability and you can get colors if you are into that stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andy w
a Weekend Warrior
from mishawaka indiana usa Date Reviewed: May 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
none
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
albrights
Strengths:
very durable, in the 2+ years ive had them, ive never had a flat.
Weaknesses:
A very slow, unresponsive tire. This is a tire more suitable for stunts then riding off road. It takes way to much work to keep a moderate riding pace in any riding conditions, it doesnt hook up well in loose soil, its impossible to ride in sand, dont even consider commuting to your favorite trail with it, because a 2 mile ride feels like it takes 2 hours. The rubber compound is not sticky, so if you manage to get your bike up to speed, and if you take a curve on any hardpacked surface, the bike is going to fall out from under you. Who would have thought that someone riding an xc bike would have to wear full body protection!
Similar Products Used:
you name it, ive used them
Bike Setup:
custom easton steel xc frame. sub 22lb bike.
Bottom Line:
If youve ever wanted to feel what it was like to be in a 24 hour xc race after youve been up all night finishing off a gallon of jack daniels and smoking a case of camel non filters, riding through quick sand, these are the tires for you. Panaracer is a company that makes very durable, trustworthy tires, and usually produces a great product, but i think they bombed with this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike A.
a Cross Country Rider
from Bay Area, CA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2007
Confusion over the various TPI/bead material has caused many of my friends to end up with the wrong tires. Do your research (which I'm assuming you're doing if you're on this site) to make sure you get the right ones.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Dirt Control Comp, Specialized Dirt Master Comp, Bontrager Jones AC, Nokian Gazzaloddi Mud
Bike Setup:
2000 Stumpjumper Comp, Panaracer Fire XC Pros, BG saddle.
Bottom Line:
These tires are great. The first time I rode these, I realized what I was missing out on. Cornering is on rails, I can stand up on climbs in loose dirt and never had them slip. I have no reason to replace them with anything else (other than mud tires) for my terrain. I've never used them on rock or packed clay, so I can't say how well they work there, but in rock gardens and on loose dirt, they are superb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Columbia, Missouri Date Reviewed: May 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
only one?
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Walt's Bike shop
Strengths:
Grip, Treadwear, looks...
Weaknesses:
None...well, maybe mud shedding-sometimes it doesn't.
Similar Products Used:
Haven't needed any other, only tire I've ever used.
Great tire! I've used these tires on my bike for well over a year. They are showing some wear due to the fact that I also use my bike to commute to campus. On-road, they are adequate tires, but this is not what they are designed for...Off-road however, these tires are great. They hold the line perfectly, and are extremely durable. I have put my bike through some punishment riding down ski slopes and such (Angel Fire, NM) and while my bike wasn't quite set up for this kind of abuse, the tires had no trouble. I've ridden them in any type of environment from rocky to sandy, through creeks and down hills, nothing stops these tires. And you can't beat the price, or the looks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Jersey City, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: May 7, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Jensonusa.com
Strengths:
Where to begin with this one. The moment I got on the trail I could really feel that my bike was responding to everything I was doing. Climbing was better because my tire would not spin out with a little shift in weight. Makes me very confident when cornering and higher speeds.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
These where the first tires of this quality I used.
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakota Comp Fox F100 RLC Panaracer Fire XC Pro Tires M-540 Pedals
Bottom Line:
Great set of tires that allow you to really get some traction when riding. I never tried them in mud so I couldn't tell you how they work in mud. The price has been greatly reduced from $80 so I think it is worth trying out a set.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron
a Weekend Warrior
from Poughkeepsie Date Reviewed: April 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Vassar Farms
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Cambria & Wheel World
Strengths:
Durable & holds up great on sharp turns. You can really lean into this tire & not worry about anything.
Weaknesses:
Just becarefull not to but the cheap version of this tire. Get the 120tpi version.
Similar Products Used:
Mythos XC
Bike Setup:
Ironhorse frame all custom.
Bottom Line:
Great price for a great tire. I liked my Mythos XC but after getting the rear Panaracer last season i had to upgrade the front this season. Excellent tire.........
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from Spokane, WA, United States Date Reviewed: April 29, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
internet vendor
Strengths:
Cheap. grippy. Excellent on dry loose terrain. Choice of sidewall colors.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
WTB Velociraptor, Specialized team control
Bike Setup:
Motobecane Fantom Elite, XT everything.
Bottom Line:
Great tire. I have put 100 miles on this tire and I love it. It has great traction on the dry loose stuff. I have not tried it in the mud yet, (no rain). It grips well around corners and climbs like a billy goat. The choice of sidewall colors is also nice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike D
a Cross Country Rider
from springdale, AR Date Reviewed: April 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Lake Leatherwood
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
Lewis and Clark Outfitters
Strengths:
Decent grip, light, durable
Weaknesses:
could be grippier
Bike Setup:
05 Giant STP3 w/lots of goodies
Bottom Line:
I usually ride on beginner/intermediate trails, and they server their purpose. I've had some trouble on trails with large loose gravel, and the same is on steep climbs. It's probably because the combined weight of me and my bike is about 140lbs. Either than that, you'll get your bang for your buck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: April 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Submarine Rock/Spruce mtn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
Light
Weaknesses:
These tire grip very poorly for the type of riding that I do.
Similar Products Used:
IRC trailbear, Panaracer smoke/dart classic combo
Bottom Line:
I picked these tires up because I read all the reviews on here and figured that they would be great. I ride mostly hardpack singletrack in AZ and I wouldn't recommend them. On climbs the rear tire failed constantly. The front tire was very washy when cornering. I have the panaracer smoke/dart combo on my other bike and they are significantly better. I switched from the fire xc pro's to IRC trailbears and what an amazing difference that made. I assume that the rave reviews are from people riding on different terrain because I thought these tires were trash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Central, Wisconsin, USA Date Reviewed: April 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Standing Rocks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$33.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
Very grippy, cheap price from Price Point.
Weaknesses:
Nothing major yet.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Jones ACX
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 80, stock components.
Bottom Line:
I picked up these tires after reading all the rave reviews on MTBR. I ordered from PricePoint as I'd purchased gear from them in the past and I liked the cheap price.
Turns out, if you want the genuine, genuine Fire XC Pro's, don't order from Price Point. They sell the cheaper, less TPI "knock off" tires. You will not get the real Fire XC's w/ the large lettering on the side (not that the lettering is the important thing, it just seems to be the easiest to see indicator of genunine Panaracers).
As far as I can tell, the tread pattern is the same as the genuine tires. These tires are, based on what I can see, about 100g heavier than genuine.
Anyway - I've only done a short ride on them along a hard packed limestone trail, no single track yet. The tires are nice, a definite upgrade over the Bontragers.
The main reason I wanted to write the review was to point out that PricePoint DOES NOT carry the genuine Panaracer tires. Order from another source if you want those.
Despite these not being genuine, I threw them onto my bike and will thoroughly abuse them this spring/summer/fall. We'll see how the hold up over the long term. For the price, I can't complain but next time I'll be ordering from a different vendor.
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Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from lake charles, La, USA Date Reviewed: April 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
capital cyclery
Strengths:
Number one strength of this tire is its resistance to flats. Iv rolled over everything with this tire. I rolled over the edge of a sharp rock and the tire made a very loud popping noise, i thought i slased the tire for shure but it was fine. Hooks up great and corners very well.
Weaknesses:
Keep this tire off road not on the road thats what its made for.
Similar Products Used:
Jones xc and hutchison bulldogs
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC frame with full carbon in the rear, XT and LX shifting.
Bottom Line:
Great tire its cheap so if you do use this off road and occasionally on the road like I do then its not a pain on your wallet to replace it. Also it comes with cool side wall colors to match your bike I have the blue makes the bike setup look cool. If you ride hard packed, loose , or semi muddy terrain this is the tire for you. Not an Extreme Mud tire. Best all around tire for off road.
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Submitted by
dRunkmOnCKeY
a
from frisco, TX Date Reviewed: April 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Erwin Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
www.blueskycycling.com
Strengths:
good price at 2 for $35 or so; havent had a flat since i switched to these with a kevlar bead; grip well and give warning before sliding out
Weaknesses:
Higher rolling resistance; havent done well for me in wet conditions as they pick up a lot of mud
Similar Products Used:
Various specialized tires from LBS
Bike Setup:
specialized rockhopper
Bottom Line:
Can't beat the price. These have done well for me allowing me to corner harder and make it up the hardpacked/loose climbs here in texas. Increase in rolling resistance, but I assume this comes with any tire that grips better. Great all-around tire.
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Submitted by
Joel
a Weekend Warrior
from St Cloud, MN, USA Date Reviewed: March 20, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Amazing traction in dry conditions, corner well, and even do surprisingly well on hard pack snow and frozen trails in the winter. Light weight. look sweet too.
Weaknesses:
wear kind of fast on pavement, but not a problem if you keep them where they belong...in the dirt. Also, not so hot in the mud.
Similar Products Used:
Kenda Karma
Bike Setup:
KHS XC Hardtail, with all sorts of upgrades...basically bombproof
Bottom Line:
These tires do what they're supposed to. They are quite grippy, and don't have that much rolling resistance if kept at a decent PSI. They Look sweet. I think you can get a pair for $32 or something, so they're pretty cheap. If you need some tires and ride somewhere that's generally dry, get them.
$ 30.00
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