PIRELLI SCORPION RACE ENDURO M
Tester: Hayden Wright
Casing: DualWall (2 x 120TPI) Compound: SmartEvo DH
Weight: 1303g (29”)
Size: 29 x 2.5” (27.5” also available) Width on DT Swiss 30mm rim: 60.5mm PSI for testing: 22
RRP: $135
FESports.com.au
Pirelli have pulled no punches when marketing their new Race line of Scorpion MTB tyres. World Cup supremacy is their goal, and the M tread pattern is leading the charge on their behalf. Designed with versatility and predictability at the top of their list of priorities, this relatively new tyre from Pirelli features softer compounds and thicker sidewalls than anything we have seen from them previously. The tread follows a staggered 2-2-2 pattern, with tall and deeply siped corner knobs which combine to give a rounded overall profile. The DualWall casing on the EN (Enduro) model consists of 2x120TPI layers, to be as supple as possible to provide a damped ride character, while also being robust and supportive. A dual compound rubber has also been designed specifically for the Race range of tyres, featuring a noticeably softer feel than what is used on the Scorpion Enduro range of tyres also tested.
Confidence inspiring is the first phrase that comes to mind when I think about what it feels like to ride on the Pirelli Scorpion Race Enduro M. The soft rubber, supple casing, and predictable tread pattern meant I thought about riding, not the tyres. This tread pattern is a blast, and I was hooning down my local trails as fast as possible. I primarily attribute this to the staggered 2-2-2 tread pattern with no dead zones or vague handling traits thanks to the introduction of an intermediate knob. This led to consistent straight line and lean angle traction on everything from hard pack to wet roots. Braking performance was also trouble free, with steady tracking in steep sections where control is paramount. On the steeps I noticed the casing doing a good job of aiding in braking traction, with around 21PSI being supple and supportive with no folding or burping. I did feel the rim strike some rocks on the odd occasion, but this can partially be attributed to how much confidence I had in these tyres, and how hard I was pushing as a result. Riders looking for more support could opt for the DH version, which has a 2x60TPI casing and additional sidewall support.
The soft rubber rolls slower than some of the others in the test and was quite an effort to push around on more undulating trails that lack the gradient needed to really bring it to life. It also showed little wear through the testing period, however this is expected when running a tyre on the front of any bike. You can also run this on the back end.
This tyre is perfect for the budding racer who prioritises consistent traction over all else. While some tyres might provide better braking traction or faster rolling, there are few that can match the surprise-free mixed terrain performance on offer here – perfect for amateur and elite racers alike.