I don't like the Conti's because the beads are so tight they are a pain to get on and off the rim. Otherwise, I like some of their treads. For my single speed I use a WTB Motoraptor 2.4 (helps make up for the lack of a suspension fork) up front and a Panaracer Smoke Classic 2.1 on the rear. On my geared MTB I run a WTB Velociraptor 2.1 in front and a Panaracer Smoke II 2.1 in the rear (LBS was out of the Smoke Classic - see what I mean about choice!). In the snow or extreme mud I will throw a Panaracer Spike 2.1 on the rear of either bike.