The ultimate tire for all conditions loose or hard pack and it is consistantly voted a winner by mountain bike action magazine this is a great performing tire for most riders downhill wire bead version has 2 ply construction with stick e rubber for better grip and the cross country folding bead version is single ply with stick e or dtc rubber for reduced weight freeride wire bead version is single ply with stick e rubber and butyl cap insert for extra strength and durability front and rear