Pirelli is a name that is synonymous with modern Formula One, MotoGP, and top-tier Motocross racing. Early 2019 saw the introduction of Pirelli’s Scorpion MTB range, leveraging decades of experience in high-performance tyre design and tailoring a product for mountain bikes. Within the range is the Scorpion XC RC, a tool specifically designed for XC racing from hardpack to loose conditions.
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Pirelli Scorpion XC RC Details
The Pirelli Scorpion XC RC is the brand’s dedicated XC race tyre, boasting a lightweight construction and fast-rolling tread pattern designed for hardpack and loose dry conditions. The XC RC is available in both the ultra-lightweight LiteMTB and general-purpose ProWall casings. When it comes to the rubber, these are available in Pirelli’s SmartGRIP compound only, which claims to blend a balance of mechanical and chemical grip for traction in dry and wet conditions. Unlike many other manufacturers, Pirelli uses a single compound of rubber to provide a more consistent feel throughout the life of the tyre.
The tread pattern is similar to that of a Maxxis Recon Race, with low-profile, tightly spaced centre knobs for rolling speed along with angled side lugs for cornering support. Available in either 2.2in or 2.4in widths, the narrower of the two is designed for smoother/faster trails, with the larger 2.4in being better suited to more demanding XC trails where a higher volume tyre can deliver improved traction.
Key Details
- Price | $99.99 AUD
- Wheel Size | 29in
- Casing | LiteMTB, ProWall
- Compound | SmartGRIP
- Width | 2.2in or 2.4in
- Claimed Weight | 660g-700g (2.2in or 2.4in, ProWall Casing)
Ride Impressions
Climbing with the Scorpion XC RC tyres delivers exactly what you’d expect from a race-focused cross-country tyre: exceptional speed and razor-sharp precision. The closely spaced and tapered central knobs, along with angled intermediate knobs, create an excellent platform for maintaining maximum speed over rolling terrain with minimal rolling resistance. You’ll need to be on your game because these suckers turn over fast!
Tackling technical pinches on the RCs was impressive, especially considering their low tread height and tight knob spacing. However, careful line choice and speed management are essential to maximize their performance, a requirement shared by any comparable XC tyre.
Descending on the XC RCs can be best described as lively, offering an outstanding balance of cornering grip and braking traction for such a fast-rolling tyre. As speeds picked up and the terrain turned looser, managing braking points became crucial for controlling speed and maintaining traction. They perform well under heavy braking but also have a clearly defined limit that can be easily reached with a firm pull of the brake lever.
They did feel a little skittish and unstable on loose rocks and rough fire roads, which isn’t surprising given that this isn’t the terrain they were designed for, though they may frequently encounter it. Despite having relatively thin sidewalls, we experienced no punctures during testing, and they offered decent support when cornering without excessive squirming or rolling.
Flows Verdict
The Scorpion XC RC can only be described as FAST — with a captive ‘F,’ ‘A,’ ‘S,’ ‘T’. It’s clear that Pirelli has leveraged its extensive experience in high-performance racing to develop these tyres, resulting in an incredibly swift and responsive ride. When used in the terrain they were designed for, these tyres compete with the top contenders in XC rubber, delivering impressive performance and handling.
