e*thirteen has launched a brand new tyre, dubbed the Grappler. It's a tyre designed especially for enduro and downhill use to help tackle the most demanding and technical of trails. 

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The Grappler benefits from generously a spaced centre tread that's intended to dig into soft terrain while distributing even pressure across the tread to provide grip when the trail hardens, says e*thirteen. Similar to other tyre designs (perhaps this one), the Grappler gets an intermediate knob that's included to offer a smooth transition from the centre tread to the shoulder of the tyre.

Those side knobs are then cut with 'accordion sipes' to help them deform and hunt for grip even when the trail is especially uneven. These same knobs then get arched cutaways in increase their flexibility.

2022 e13 grappler tread 2.jpg, by Liam Mercer

e*thirteen offers this tyre with either the Endurance compound which reduces rolling resistance with a harder centre tread and slightly softer shoulder knobs or the MoPo compound, which is a softer, 42d rubber with a lower rebound, boosting grip. Then there are choices between a dual-ply 120TPI Enduro or dual-ply 72TPI Downhill casing. Both options get advanced sidewall protection and stability enhancements. There are also special e*spec models on offer designed especially to cope with the extra weight and power of e-bikes.

As for sizes, the Grappler is available for both 29" and 650b wheels, and it comes 2.5" wide only. The tyre is claimed to weigh in at 1405g in its heavier 29" DH Casing, Endurance compound model and prices start at 60 euros (around £50).

• www.ethirteen.com

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