Schwalbe Big Betty – The new favorite for DH and enduro

One of the most interesting products for 2021 from the German manufacturer Schwalbe is the Big Betty model. If the name sounds familiar, it is because years ago this was one of the popular downhill tires from this brand. Later it seemed to be replaced by other models, but now the new version looks very promising and is "pumped up" with all the latest technologies for DH and enduro models.

At first glance, it is clear that this is an aggressive and quite versatile tire. According to Schwalbe, it is designed for downhill and enduro and covers everything from dry unstable/loose soils and terrains to wet and muddy conditions. The central knobs have wide braking edges for effective speed reduction. The side knobs are stable and provide exceptional grip in corners. The tread pattern is well optimized in density so that it cleans well without being too sparse.

Schwalbe launches Big Betty as a rear tire when combined with the classic in the genre Magic Mary. However, many users will probably like the new model as a front tire as well, especially if they want maximum grip when braking.

In Bulgaria, three variants of the size 29x2.40 are currently offered:

• Big Betty Evolution Super Gravity has a foldable bead, reinforced sidewalls, and a rubber compound for the tread called ADDIX Soft. The tire weighs about 1330 grams and is suitable for enduro bikes that will be ridden relentlessly on the most technical and rough terrains. Among other things, this version also features the so-called "classic" beige carcass.
• Big Betty Evolution Super Downhill also has a foldable bead, but with an even more massive construction and more layers in the carcass. The rubber compound is also the "softest" for Schwalbe – ADDIX Ultra Soft, which guarantees maximum grip in all difficult conditions. As a result, the tire has a higher weight (1450 grams) but is extremely reliable even during aggressive riding on the worst terrains.
• Big Betty Performance BikePark is much more affordable in price, but this comes at the cost of weight, which is 1620 grams. The main reason is the wire bead. However, this version of the model has a strong construction and a very wear-resistant rubber compound. That is why Schwalbe recommends it as a good rear tire option for people who ride frequently and intensively in bike parks.

Author of the material: Lyubomir Botusharov. Source: mtb-bg.com. Reprinted with abridgments from the original article from mtb-bg.com.