27.5" MTB tires for every need and discipline

27.5-inch MTB tires, the compromise that isn’t a compromise

27.5-inch MTB tires sit halfway between the 26 and 29 variants. We are therefore talking about a solution that combines the best of both, standing out for its versatility. From the 26-inch tire, in fact, it inherits excellent acceleration and, above all, agility. In fact, the smaller the wheel, the better the control. And it is no coincidence that 27.5" puncture-resistant MTB tires are top choices in Enduro, Downhill and Freeride, where precise descent control is essential. Compared with 26" tires, grip and obstacle clearance also take a decisive step forward, while still not reaching the level of 29" tires, which remain the benchmark in XC. Compared with the latter, 27.5 tires are significantly lighter.

The tire built for the rider

Buying a new tire can give you more than a few headaches. To clear up any doubts, it is always best to assess its real-world use. Every terrain, in fact, calls for the right tire. Mud, for example, calls for a soft tire with pronounced, widely spaced knobs. On dry dirt, on the other hand, it is better to fit a harder compound with closer-spaced knobs. If you ride a bit of everything, including asphalt, you might opt for a more road-oriented 27.5" MTB tire, meaning one that is less narrow and aggressive. Tire width is another crucial factor in pedaling efficiency. It is also measured in inches and ranges from 1.9" to 3". For XC, for example, tires rarely exceed 2.1 inches, while in Enduro they can easily reach 2.5. For Downhill and electric MTBs, finally, it is best to play it safe with an even more generous tire. As a general rule, a wider tire performs best on descents, a narrower one uphill.

The reliability of leading brands

Maxxis, Pirelli, Schwalbe, Michelin, Vittoria, Specialized: here are some of the strongest names in tires. Available in a wide range of types, they are designed to suit your riding style and budget. Maxxis Ikon in 27.5x2.20 configuration, for example, is the most versatile budget option. Good for XC and Enduro, it is unbeatable for value and build quality. But if you are looking for something more specific for Gravity, the Specialized Hillbilly Grid Trail 2Bliss Ready T7 tire is the one for you. With a width of 2.6" and prominent knobs, it grips the ground and won’t let go. And it is one of the lightest 27.5" MTB tires on the market.