The Flying M

...well, not for me anyway. I am currently running a pair of Maxxis Ignitors that came stock on my Kona. Good tires and all, but the rear one is already going bald, after about 4 months of heavy use (of course, this could be because of the 4-mile pavement ride to and from the trailhead ). But anyway, I was wondering if Maxxis tires had a reputation for wearing out quickly. I was also thinking about replacing them with some Panaracer Fire XC's or Kenda Small Blocks. Anyone heard about the durability of those brands?

scrublover

The Small Blocks are a relatively new offering.

The Fire XC tire has been around for quite some time. They are a very decent do it all tire, and can be had cheap, and last fairly well.

DonValley

I have Fire XC's on my Kula Deluxe as well as some ignitors on another set of wheels. I haven't used the Ignitors much yet, but the Fire XC's seem very good all around. From the looks of the tires, they appear to be more aggressive for off camber riding. On Pavement the Ignitors have less rolling resistance.

a2psyklnut

Tires have different durometers. Usually the more expensive the tire, the softer the rubber compound and the better traction they provide (assuming tread patterns are the same). Tire companies have experimented with different durometers for different purposes and have even combined two or even three different durometers. i.e. a dual compound tire with a harder center knob section for faster rolling and softer side knobs for traction while cornering.

The higher the durometer # the "harder" the tire. i.e. a 60 is harder than a 42.

For harder pack trails, (or pavement) you'll want to run a harder tire so they last longer.

For soft, or loamy trails a softer tire will work best.

...etc...etc....etc.

The Flying M

Thanks for the info, guys! I guess I'll go for the Panaracers, because I ride mostly packed-down trails out here in LA.

And a2psyklnut, even though this is my first post on the forums, as a UCLA student I am obligated to say SCREW YOU, GATORS!!!!

dminor 

Ain'tcha just sick of hearin' about 'em? As a WSU Cougar, a Trojan Dad and living in Gonzaga Bulldog country, I echo your sentiment.