PIRELLI SCORPION RACE ENDURO T
Tester: Hayden Wright
Casing: DualWall (2 x 120TPI) Compound: SmartEvo DH
Weight: 1195g (27.5”)
Size: 27.5 x 2.5” (29” also available) Width on DT Swiss 30mm rim: 60mm PSI for testing: 26
RRP: $135
FESports.com.au
Introduced alongside the Pirelli Race Enduro M was its rear specific counterpart - the ‘T’. Standing for Traction in this case, this tyre has been designed with the primary goal of providing compromise free performance for those who prioritise braking and cornering grip. To achieve this, Pirelli have designed one of the most aggressive mixed terrain tread patterns I have seen. A wide, concave centre knob that features a sharp braking edge sits proudly through the centre of the tyre, with two smaller siped knobs its counterpart in this 1-2 pattern. The corner knobs are just as aggressive, with their tall height and deep external siping further showing the intentions of this tyre. As is with the entire Scorpion Race line, the T is uses the soft SmartEvo DH compound and is available in both downhill and enduro casings (tested here)
During testing, I was riding a narrow, loose, off-camber piece of trail at a speed I was very uncomfortable with. With my eyes half shut, I was expecting the rear end of my bike to let go and drift out in the soft soil, following suite of the rider I was chasing down. But it dug in like the teeth of an excavator bucket and allowing me to stay on my line. This immense traction and braking control was a constant when testing this tyre, thanks primarily to the square and tall knob pattern. Not just a performer in loam, the Race T provided fantastic chemical grip on rocks and hard-packed soil thanks to the tacky rubber. When combined with the supple 2 x 120TPI casing the tyre delivers a beautifully damped ride. Testing pressures settled in at around 26psi, which gave a good compromise on support and rim protection. I did venture lower than this, but dented a rim.
All of this traction does come at a cost, with the rolling speed being noticeably slower than some others on test. The use life is also quite short compared to many of the other tyres in this test. At 12 hours of use the Pirelli Race T was heavily worn and not far off needing replacement. This is to be expected for a soft compound rear tyre with pure race intentions.
The Pirelli Scorpion Race Enduro T should be at the top of the list for any enduro racer who is charging steep trails, pushing braking points, and looking for every second on their way to the finish line. The soft compound and aggressive tread does lead to a short use life and slow rolling speed, but on the right trail and under the right rider this tyre is an absolute stunner.