Continental made a huge splash last year when it leapt into the gravity tyre market with a fully redesigned tyre range. Featuring five brand new tread patterns across a variety of casing and rubber compound options, the comprehensive tyre lineup has gone on to earn plenty of praise all around the globe.
You may recall that we covered the Argotal, Kryptotal and Xynotal tyres in a detailed review where we tested five unique combinations on five different bikes. We were particularly impressed by the Enduro and DH options that use a softer rubber compound and sturdier casings that offer a sweet ride feel with claw-like grip and a nicely damped quality.
All of the tyres we’ve previously tested have been in a 2.4in size, though it’s worth noting that Continental has also released a number of options in a bigger 2.6in width. Here we take a look at two of those 2.6in tyres, which Wil has fitted to his Scott Voltage test bike.
If you’re looking for more grip and compliance out of your mountain bike or e-MTB, consider fitting a set of 2.6in tyres providing that your frame and fork will accommodate them.
Continental Argotal Enduro Tyre
- Size: 29×2.6in
- Weight: 1,310g (confirmed)
- Price: $159.99 AUD
On the front of the Scott Voltage we’ve got the Continental Argotal. This is the most aggressive tyre from the German brand, which is designed to excel in loose and challenging terrain.
Replacing the stock Maxxis Assegai EXO+ 3C MaxxTerra 2.6in front tyre, the Argotal Enduro is pretty comparable. Weight is almost exactly the same (1,310g vs 1,320g), and the similarly toothy tread pattern aims to dig through dusty and loose trail surfaces to provide dependable traction whether it’s wet or dry.
For tyres with the ‘Enduro’ label, Continental pairs them with its Soft rubber compound. In terms of tackiness, it feels somewhere in between the 3C MaxxTerra and 3C MaxxGrip compounds from Maxxis. Combined with its 110tpi casing and Apex reinforced beads, the Argotal Enduro has a well-damped ride quality with good stability at lower pressures. If you’re looking for more grip and compliance out of your mountain bike or e-MTB, consider fitting a set of 2.6in tyres providing that your frame and fork will accommodate them.
Continental Kryptotal Re Enduro Tyre
- Size: 29×2.6in
- Weight: 1,289g (confirmed)
- Price: $159.99 AUD
On the rear we’ve got the Continental Kryptotal Re tyre. This is the rear-specific option out of the two Kryptotal tyres, and as such it utilises more pronounced lateral edges to offer a stronger hold under heavy braking.
This replaced the stock Maxxis Dissector EXO+ 3C MaxxTerra 2.6in tyre, and again weight is very similar (1,289g for the Kryptotal vs 1,250g for the Dissector). The tread pattern is quite a bit more aggressive however, and shares more in common with the Maxxis Minion DHR II tyre.
We also went with the Enduro casing, which features three layers of 110tpi nylon fabric under the tread, and two layers along each sidewall. There’s an additional layer of cross-woven fabric built into the sidewall to boost cut-resistance, along with a thick plastic Apex around each bead to reduce the chances of pinch-flatting. It also helps to add stability at lower pressures, and currently Wil is running around 21-22psi in the rear tyre.
Installation
As we’ve experience with other Continental Enduro tyres, the fit can be quite tight on certain rims. Whereas the Maxxis EXO+ tyres were pretty easy to install and remove by hand, we needed the help of a tyre lever with the Continental Enduro tyres. Adding a CushCore insert into the rear wheel also proved to be a challenge, which would have been impossible without the help of the nifty Bead Bro tool.
Once in place however, both tyres have aired up easily on the Syncros Revelstoke carbon rims. We’ve got each tyre set up tubeless with a few glugs of Champions Choice sealant and so far they’re holding pressure well.
First Impressions
It’s early days with the 2.6in Continental Argotal and Kryptotal tyres, but as expected they provide a similar ride feel to their slightly narrower siblings. Compared to the stock Maxxis tyres, there is noticeably more damping and grip on tap, and we’re looking forward to being able to push the Voltage that bit harder on the descents. That traction doesn’t come for free however, with an equivalent increase in rolling resistance. We’ll be doing some range tests to see what the real-world effect is on efficiency.
If you’re keen to know more about the latest Argotal, Kryptotal and Xynotal tyres, check out our Continental tyre review for the full rundown.
