MICHELIN WILD ENDURO REAR
Tester: Bam da Silva
Casing: Gravity Shield
Compound: Gum X3D
Weight: 1208g (29”)
Size: 29 x 2.4” (27.5” also available) Width on DT Swiss 30mm rim: 61mm PSI for testing: 23
RRP: $119.95 bikecorp.com.au
The Michelin Wild Enduro Rear is simple and at the same time still unique like it’s front end counterpart. It’s simple as it only comes in one compound, the Gum-X3D, which is actually stickier than the base rubber used on the Magi-X2 equipped front tyre. The complexity comes from the unique casing, with 3 layers of 40 TPI material which creates a tyre with plenty of support on the sidewall and more of a dampened feel while on the trail.
It has a quite unique tread pattern – a reduced version of its front counterpart with a 2-2 configuration. Although not exclusive to the market, it’s rare to see a rear specific tyre that is not all about big rectangular blocks with sharp braking edges. The Michelin seems more focused on forward momentum and performance than slowing you down a hill, however the riding says otherwise. The knobs are not particularly large, the edges quite steep compared to the front so you know it will help where you need it the most. The side knobs are again quite steep and squared off, which is a big factor on how this tyre feels when riding it.
This Michelin combo is not exactly a speedy set of tyres. Although not heavy, when compared to other options, they just don’t roll as fast. Having tested these just after the Bontrager SE6/5, there was a noticeable difference in rolling resistance – amongst other performance considerations. The rear really compliments the front and they work great together, with it also delivering a similar feel to how the front performs once you’re at speed. Great support on the side knobs once again and in many instances where other tyres would have let go, I felt the rear pushing me forward, staying high on the line and delivering excellent grip. Like the front tyre, push it hard, give it what it needs and it will reward you.
The knob configuration, although not as harsh on its response to brake input, felt like it allowed me to harness my speed better, with more control. Perhaps it did so at the detriment of outright grip, but never felt like it wasn’t enough. As I had been fortunate to ride this tyre for an extended period in the past, I can comment on the long-term longevity of this tyre. Or better yet, the medium-term longevity as I never felt the tyre lasted long enough! The wear on the rear Michelin is substantial and noticeable after only a few solid rides, particularly as the side knobs start to shear and lift. While the front tyre would still have plenty of life left, the rear looked and felt like a semi-slick. Luckily, the rubber compound extends all the way through the tyre, so the chemical grip was still readily available.
Like the front tyre, there are better options for riding in wet roots and rocks (hero grippy granite being the exception). But for all else these are a performance tyres that really come alive when being ridden with determination and race intent.