Pirelli’s Scorpion e-MTB tyres bring the brand’s experience from motorsports into the electric mountain bike world. As the name suggests, these tyres are specifically designed for e-MTBs, promising to handle the extra weight and torque that come with these bikes. But what’s different? Does simply slapping an ‘e-MTB’ label on the sidewall make a difference, or is it just marketing hype?
There are three models to choose from; we opted for the M on the front and the R on the rear fitted to our full-power Specialized Levo.
Pirelli Scorpion E-MTB M
- Purpose: This tyre is the most versatile in Pirelli’s e-MTB range, designed for trail and enduro use. It’s an all-rounder.
- Sizes: Available in 27.5 x 2.6 and 29 x 2.6 in
- Weight: 1,260g (confirmed) 29 x 2.6 in
Pirelli Scorpion E-MTB S
- Purpose: This is the most aggressive tyre in the range, for loose surfaces.
- Sizes: Available in 27.5 x 2.6 and 29 x 2.6.
- Weight: Around 1210-1220g (claimed) depending on size.
Pirelli Scorpion E-MTB R
- Purpose: Specifically designed for the rear wheel.
- Sizes: Available in 27.5 x 2.6, 27.5 x 2.8, and 29 x 2.6.
- Weight: 1,180g (confirmed) 27.5 x 2.6 in
E-MTB Specific Specs – Built Tough
Compared to the Scorpion Race models, the Hyper-Wall e-MTB versions have a casing reinforced with a thicker rubber insert connected directly to the bead with an additional layer of fabric. This results in what the brand says is a 10% improvement in stability and a 50% decrease in the likelihood of pinch flats. Clearly it’s built to take the kind of abuse that comes with the extra weight of e-MTBs, and is a tyre that feels reliable and predictable when things get rough, making it a solid choice for front-end control.
These e-MTB-specific tyres use what Pirelli calls ‘SmartGRIP Gravity Compound’ for both front and rear; where many tyres (including other Scorpion models) will have two or three compounds in the construction, these Scorpions use just one.
Scorpion M Front Tyre – Chunky AF
The Scorpion M front tyre in Pirelli’s e-MTB range brings a familiar design to the table, mirroring the chunky tread of the Scorpion Race series, but with a key difference—it’s been scaled up from a 2.5in to a 2.6in size. This larger profile, combined with Pirelli’s SmartGRIP Gravity Compound, offers a firmer feel. The solid side knobs provide excellent cornering traction, and the slightly firmer compound should ensure the tyre holds up well under heavy use, resisting wear over time.
With this much tread and a 2.6in footprint leading the charge, riders will find it laughably easy to handle tough terrain. However, the sheer size and aggressiveness of this tyre demand commitment—riders need to embrace its mass and really push it hard to get the most out of this ultra-aggressive tyre.
Scorpion R Rear Tyre – The Robin to Batman
The Scorpion R rear tyre is where things get interesting. It ditches the squared-off look for a more rounded profile sitting quite tall off the rim. After a few rides, it started to make sense. The rounded profile helps to initiate a turn, dropping the bike down to one side into a corner or switchback. It also improves comfort over rough terrain due to increased air volume, allowing for lower pressures and better climbing traction up loose and janky climbs.
The stiff casing and large volume induced a lot of confidence in letting the brakes off over rocky terrain. However, for riders spending more time on formed, machine-built, or bike-park-style trails, the balloon-like profile may feel overly bouncy.
The Scorpion R Rear Tyre plays a great supporting role—much like Robin to Batman. The Scorpion R allows the rear of the bike to break free slightly in turns while the chunky front tyre grips firmly, enabling riders to lean over the front end confidently and let the aggressive front tyre do its job. Together, they offer a controlled but playful handling experience.
Do We Really Need e-MTB-Specific Parts?
We’ve previously delved into e-MTB-specific parts, such as the Maxxis e50 range, where the e50 label signifies the additional testing the tyres have undergone and Maxxis’ approval for use on e-MTB’s. Testing the Pirelli range brought up a question we’ve had regarding e-MTB-specific components: Are e-MTB-specific components necessary, or are we better off sticking with beefy enduro or downhill parts? Sure, the Pirelli Scorpion e-MTB tyres are tougher, with a bit more reinforcement and a harder compound to handle the demands of e-MTBs. They’re designed to last longer and resist punctures better under an electric motor’s added weight and torque.
But here’s the thing: high-quality enduro and downhill tyres already offer great durability, traction, and way more options for most e-MTB applications. If you’re a lighter rider or not hammering your bike on gnarly trails, the added weight and stiffness of e-MTB-specific tyres might be overkill. In many cases, enduro or downhill tyres, with more choice of size, compound and tread pattern, could be adequate.
The Verdict
The Pirelli Scorpion e-MTB tyres are a great option if you’re looking for something robust, dependable, and capable of handling the abuse of riding a heavier e-MTB. They offer good grip, stability, and a cushioned ride over rough terrain. We never tore, pinched or lost any air pressure during testing.
They will likely be more suited to high-power e-MTBs than the ‘SL’ models; if maximum grip and compliance are your top priorities, especially on faster off-piste/backcountry trails, you might prefer the standard Scorpion Race or Enduro tyres with their softer compounds.
In the end, the e-MTB label isn’t just a marketing gimmick. These tyres are genuinely engineered to withstand the specific challenges posed by e-MTBs—higher torque, added weight, and more rugged terrains. However, whether you truly need e-MTB-specific tyres comes down to your riding style, the type of e-MTB you’re on, and the terrain you ride. In many cases, a robust set of enduro or downhill tyres may work just as well, especially if you’re a lighter rider or tackling less aggressive trails. Ultimately, it’s about choosing the right tool for the job—whether that’s the extra protection and durability of e-MTB tyres or the versatility and performance of traditional enduro or downhill options.
For more (or perhaps an explainer on the multitude of Scorpion tyres in the lineup) see our Pirelli Scorpion tyre range overview here:
Scorpion Sprawl Safari – tyre overview
