Specialized has introduced a groundbreaking advancement in mountain bike tyre technology with the launch of their Grid Gravity Radial tyres. These tyres are engineered to provide enhanced grip and comfort on natural, technical terrains without the need to reduce air pressure.
Innovative Casing Design
The core innovation lies in the tyre’s casing construction. Specialized has adjusted the angle of the casing threads to approximately 70 degrees, a significant increase from the typical 45–50 degrees found in standard mountain bike tyres. This modification reduces radial stiffness by about 30%, allowing the tyre to better conform to uneven surfaces and track the terrain more closely. Despite this increased compliance, lateral stiffness decreases by only 7%, ensuring the tyre maintains its shape under cornering loads and hard compressions. Additionally, this design increases the tyre’s contact patch by approximately 30% compared to the standard Grid Gravity casing, enhancing traction and control.
Tread Patterns and Rubber Compounds
The Grid Gravity Radial tyres are available in two popular tread patterns:
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Butcher Grid Gravity Radial T9 TLR: Designed for front-wheel use, it features the GRIPTON T9 compound, focusing on maximum grip and control in demanding conditions.
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Eliminator Grid Gravity Radial T7/T9 TLR: Suitable for rear-wheel use, this tyre employs a dual compound with T7 in the centre for low rolling resistance and T9 on the edges for enhanced cornering traction.
Both tyres are tubeless-ready and come in 27.5 and 29-inch sizes with a width of 2.4 inches. The approximate weights are 1,240g for the 27.5-inch and 1,330g for the 29-inch versions. Priced at $90 USD per tyre, they are positioned competitively within the reinforced trail and enduro segment.
Performance and Availability
Specialized’s Grid Gravity Radial tyres are designed to improve traction on roots and rocks, offer better vibration damping, and provide increased control on technical terrain. They were developed at Specialized’s S-Works tyre factory, where multiple casing configurations were tested before finalizing the design. These tyres are now available through Specialized’s official channels and authorized dealers.
This innovative approach to tyre construction represents a significant step forward in balancing grip and support, potentially transforming the riding experience for mountain bikers seeking enhanced performance on challenging trails.