Trek is turning out some cracking bikes at the moment but one of the key aspects is that they're underlined with some excellent Bontrager rubber like the monster XR4 here.
The fact the XR4 blows up
bigger than a lot of 2.4in tyres is the most obvious initial trait and it needs
at least a mid-width rim for stability. Bontrager was one of the first
companies to champion tubeless ready systems so once persuaded on and blown
into place it's a reliable seal even at low pressures.
It feels reassuringly solid on the trail without being
too much of a grunt to accelerate. It sustains that speed well too,
particularly on rough terrain where the large volume irons out stutter bumps
that would otherwise choke your charge. There's a reinforced SE4 version too,
but that's noticeably stiff and wooden in the same stutter situations so suits
proper smash and grab gravity riders, not comfortable cruising fans.
The dual compound tread Team
Issue is a great match to the do-it-all feel too with consistent traction in
all but the most extreme surface and high braking/ cornering load situations.
Tread life is good even if you're heavy handed on the brakes and you get this
excellent blend of performance for only 60$.
Easy rolling, consistent
gripping, high volume, high control all-rounder at a great price.
Weight 830g
Width 57mm
Height 54mm
Price 60$