Every now and then a track will be drying out and not require the full on aggression and depth of a full on mud tyre. There might be rock and root sections interspersed with mud or a multiplicity of surface conditions that makes a full on wet or dry tyre less than perfect. It’s here (especially in our unpredictable UK conditions) that a 50/50 tyre choice is invaluable. Many brands have tried to achieve this; very few have come up with a winner. But mud is a complex business, as this guide explains.
The Hillbilly’s moto-style tread pattern is enough to cut in, yet not too much to tip over on rock or tangle in the roots
Our choice for these conditions is the Specialized Hillbilly. A large volume tyre in both 26” and 27.5”, with Specialized’s proven dual compound (42a over a 70a base), the Hillbilly’s moto-style tread pattern is enough to cut in, yet not too much to tip over on rock or tangle in the roots. The 60TPI carcass gives enough stability over a broad range of pressures and has additional butyl inserts above the bead for added pinch flat protection. Braking control is sorted too. It really is excellent across a broad range of conditions.
