Specialized has been bolstering its mountain bike tyre lineup with the addition of new sizes, casing and compound options. Shown here is the fastest-rolling XC tyre of the bunch, the Renegade.
The Specialized Renegade Control tyres get a micro-tread pattern that maximises surface contact on hardpack trails for a consistent feel with minimal rolling resistance. Elevated and reinforced shoulder blocks aim to keep them hooking up through the corners, as long as things aren’t too loose or greasy.
While we have used the Renegade before, this is the first time we’ve had them in the bigger 2.35in width. Along with the sensible Control casings, they still come in at an impressive 681g, while offering a nice high volume carcass that’s designed to be run at lower pressures for a smoother ride.
In this size, you have the choice of the faster-rolling and longer-lasting T5 rubber compound, or the stickier and lower-rebound T7 compound. For the ultimate Goldilocks XC setup, you could run the T7 tyre up front with the T5 on the rear.
We’ve got both options to test out, and will be trying them out on some fast, dusty singletrack this summer to see how they stack up alongside the Maxxis Rekon Race and Schwalbe Racing Ralphs of the world.
