Bontrager XDX TLR Tire Review

Since switching to full rigid, I've come to realize the importance of a large volume tire. Initially I just wanted one for the "suspension" it would provide. After spending some time on a few different models now, I've come to really enjoy the added benefits of a big tire. Benefits such as smoother rolling, more traction, etc. With many of the modern tires available, they are coming in large sizes with little weight penality. For example, the Bontrager XDX TLT 2.4 Tubeless-ready tire weighs 732 grams on my scale. 732 grams for a 2.4 tubeless-ready tire... that isn't bad.

This is one of Bontrager's more recent tire designs. I was hunting for a tire to replace my 2.35 Kenda Nevegal that failed (we'll save that story for another time) and came across this one at my LBS. It uses mostly square knobs in a pretty open spaced pattern. Almost like a Kenda Small Block Eight but with less knobs and more spacing.


Given that I wanted the large volume for comfort, I have been running the tire around 23psi. I have it mounted to ZTR Flow rims and am running it tubeless with 1.5 scoops of Stan's sealant. It rolls noticeably faster than the Kenda Nevegal (not that that is saying much). It gets a little skittish on loose-over-hardpack in the corners, but hasn't washed-out yet. The nice thing is that it is predictable in its traction even when it starts getting skittish.

Overall, I think it is an excellent tire. It is a pretty good value and handles nicely.

The Feel of Steel

So I've had a few rides on the new Ala Carte now and can finally provide some review information. This really isn't a review so-to-speak, but more of just observations about the bike.

The feel steel frame is definitely noticeable compared to other aluminum framed bikes I have. It has a subtle vibration dampening that is most noticeable with little, repetitive bumps (like the groves in a sidewalk). This translates into a slightly smoother ride on the trail. I can say that I notice the difference in ride the steel frame provides. The top-tube is a little on the long side for most small frames, but the fit is pretty good. I love the looks of the skinny tubes too.

Now, about riding full-rigid. I was fearful that it would beat me up bad on the downhills at first. And it does... but only sometimes. Big bumps are not big deal and I can roll over most small ones with no problems (remember, 2.35" tires), but when I come across repetitive big bumps, like wash-boarded sections, it almost becomes hard to hold on to. My arms become jello by the time I reach the bottom of the trail.

Luckily, the Boise foothill trails are mostly smooth and don't have much wash-board. There are times when suspension would be nice, but I'm in no hurry to slap a spendy fork on it anytime soon. Plus, I like the looks on the faces of the guys riding full-suspension bikes as I pass them on the downhill :-)

Schwalbe Ultremo R

I've had a chance to put about 500 miles on my Schwalbe Ultremo R tire. It has been a really good tire so far. A part from one pinch-flat, I haven't had any problems with it. It has excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions. I put it though a good test a few weeks ago when I raced 40 miles (with some fast descents) in the rain on it. Not once did it ever feel loose.


One interesting thing about this tire is that... get this... it actually weighs what the claimed weight says. I know there is always variation in tire weights, but mine weighed exactly what was printed on the box (180 grams). I'll post an update in the future after I put more miles it so see how long of a life I get out of it, but so far it looks to be wearing at an average rate.

Are the trails dry yet?

Why is it that every time I build a new bike it rains?! I'm not talking about a few sprinkles, but real rain. Keep in mind that this is Boise, Idaho. For those of you who don't know much about Boise, it is dry. Really dry. So I find it humorous that whenever I build a new bike, it rains for several weeks. Hopefully it will hold out long enough for me to take the Ala Carte out for the maiden voyage tomorrow...

Salsa Ala Carte

Here is my new Salsa Ala Carte. Alan down at Velomech helped be put together a really nice build for it. I'm not sure how I am going to adjust to the full-rigid setup after coming from a cushy full-suspension, so we'll see how long it lasts this way. Salsa makes some really nice frames and this one is no exception. Using temper platinum tubing, this steel ride should feel nice. I went with the ZTR Flow wheels because they are nice and wide and will work well with the big tires I like.

LP200

Well, my legs are pretty much recovered from the Lyle Pearson 200 already. It was a blast and I'm already looking forward to next years event. I had the privilege of riding with a great group of fellow FCA Endurance members.


The weather forecast was looking pretty bad the night before. Rain, and lots of it. I was the first to head out for our team and started at 6:26am in the rain. Fortunately, the rain really wasn't that bad. It rained the first 50 miles or so into the race but then cleared up some and turned out to be a nice day.

We had the legs pretty well split between the team and our support car driver was awesome. She did a great job. It was fun not only riding but just socializing with all the other teams out there. I ended up with 90 miles during the race and felt pretty good at the end. The LP200 will definitely be on my calendar again next year.

FCA Crit

Went and helped out at the 3rd and final FCA sponsored crit today in Boise. It was fun! Everyone looked like they were having a good time. The temperature was good and the wind wasn't terrible. There are several more crits in the SWICA series this spring.